Yes.  Essential fatty acids are considered necessary for health.  The benefits include reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, while helping to reduce symptoms of hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, depression, asthma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, joint pain and other rheumatoid problems, skin aliments, and may also boost our  immune systems and protect us from illnesses like Alzheimer's disease.  Symptoms of deficiency include fatigue, poor memory, dry skin, mood swings, depression, poor circulation, and heart problems.  Unfortunately, the body can't make them so we have to get them through foods or supplements.  Omega-3s and omega-6s are essential fatty acids that we to achieve a proper balance with in our diets.  Experts say we should shoot for a ratio of 4 parts omega-3 to 1 part omega-6.  The typical American diet contains a ratio of around 20 to 1 in the reverse order, which could have dangerous effects.  Omega-6s are found in foods such as eggs, poultry, cereals, vegetable oils and margarine.  Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in broccoli, cantaloupe, kidney beans, spinach, walnuts, flaxseed, and fish like salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel, sturgeon, and anchovies.  You need to consume a daily supply of 1 gram or a weekly intake of 6-8 grams per week.  Keep in mind you don't have to get a daily supply to give your body what it needs.  If your thinking a low calorie way to get your fatty acids is through supplements, think again.  The body doesn't absorb supplements as well as whole foods.  They are also not regulated so they may contain concentrated amounts of the same toxins found in fresh fish.  And because of the concentrated oil they can produce and unpleasant body odor.  It is not recommended to take more than 3 grams of daily without the supervision of your healthcare provider due to the increased risk of bleeding.    Take home message:  eat a well balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, everyone may safely eat up to 12 ounces of fish per week, balance those omega-6s and omega-3s...we just can't live without them!

Michele Clark, RN, CNM 

Fish...salmon and tuna are the best sources. You can also take an Omega 3 daily supplement if you aren't a big fish eater. Check the label to make sure it is comparable to a name brand before purchasing the off-brand product.

Summer Woodard, YMCA of Georgia's Piedmont

This is possibly a question for you Medical/Family Physician. What I can tell you is that Moderate Exercise has been proven to increase memory and ease the effects of menopause. Walking, light weight lifting or weight bearing activities, and getting out in the sunshine all help to increase endorphins and hormones that can make you feel better. Although you might say that "I'm too tired to exercise" and trust me - I've felt that way plenty of times, the best thing you can do is get out and walk...even if it's for 10 minutes. You'll feel better after you do.

Vitamin supplements are always helpful if you aren't getting a balanced diet, and during menopause your body is going through some extreme changes. The best thing is to consult your family physician or OBGYN for more details on supplements and medications to help with menopause.