Thursday, December 8, 2011

Fishy business: Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Chances are, you have heard something about omega-3 fatty acids and their benefits. Studies show a reduction in plasma triglycerides, heart disease risk, arthritis, brain function, and inflammation. 


Most chronic diseases have to do with chronic inflammation (think anything that ends with -itis means inflammation of) and omega-3 fatty acids help reduce overall inflammation in the body. 


I don't recommend or think having grandma-pill-box daily regimens of supplements is necessary for most people. But I do recommend fish oil supplements for people who do not eat fish high in omega-3 fatty acids regularly (salmon and herring.)    


Choosing the right supplement
with so many supplements available here are points to consider:
1. No fishy burps - Nothing ruins a moment like a burp reeking of week old fish that has sat out in the sun. You'll find this information right on the bottle. 
2. Contains no omega-6 - We get over load of omega-6 fatty acids in the western diet, the supplement should strictly be omega 3 only (Look at the back label to make sure.) 
3. Purified - Fish oil is good, but not if it contains contaminants like mercury. Most supplements are purified and this information will be easy to find on the bottle. 
4. Dose amount - studies show that benefits are dose dependent, and you should get at least 1 g a day of pure DHA and EPA. This dose should not require more then 2 pills per day. Remember, 1 g of omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EAP), not just fish oil, read the back label to see amount. 


My personal favorite fish oil supplement is GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil. GNC usually has specials and discounts on this supplement. 
This is available in-store or online at http://www.gnc.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3685052&cp=3703232
(if you go in to the store, you are there to buy one thing, so don't get side tracked and leave the store with a $100 worth of different supplements!) 



source: www.gnc.com



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