Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that is vitally important to human health. Omega-3 is not manufactured by the human body and must be ontained through food or supplements. The main Omega-3 acids are called:
- ALA- Alpha-Linolenic Acid
- EPA– Eicosapentaenoic Acid
- DHA– Docosahexaenoix
The latter two, EPA/DHA, have the greatest effect on the heart, skin, joints and brain. High quality natural oils will contain an approximatel equal amount of EPA and DHA. If the product contains significantly more of one fatty acid than another, it is an indication of chemical processing or concentration.
Studies have shown that high concentrations of liquid fish oil can reduce inflammation, lower serum triglycerides and improve cardiovascular health. Clinical research suggests that Omega-3 fatty acids can help the risk of heart disease, cancer, MS, bipolar conditions, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, and possibly Alzheimer’s disease.
Research shows that for optimal benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids the minimum dose should be 3500mg of EPA/DHA daily. Understanding labels is critial as for optimal absorption a 50:50 EPA:DHA ratio is key.
Typical Fish Oil Label:
So in this example there is only 300mg of total EPA/DHA (180+120). Nowhere near the recommended 3500mg. You’d have to take nearly 12 capsules per day to get the recommended dose!
More information to follow…
(All information in this blog courtesy of Stronger Faster Healther)
