Fish oils, which are also known as omega-3 fatty acids (Omega-3s) are one of the few supplements recommended by both Eastern and Western medicine philosophies. Fish oil can be found in healthy foods or can be supplemented in capsular form. Taking daily doses of fish oil promotes dozens of benefits to prevent disease, speed healing/recovery, and increase overall health. Fish oil is one of the only dietary supplements on the market scientifically proven to provide health benefit. Also, fish oil has virtually no side effects with the exception of those individuals with a fish allergy and reported “fishy breath” noted in some products.

Our bodies require an abundance of omega 3 fatty acids to function on a balanced and efficient level. For instance, our brain is made up of almost 60% fat, of that, half is comprised of omega-3s! So, these fats are a crucial part of brain function and brain health. Another major benefit of omega-3s is maintaining heart health. Omega-3s protect the heart by preventing clumping of blood (which can lead to heart attacks), reducing triglycerides in the blood (key component in development of cholesterol), and can make the heart’s electrical system stronger (for more efficient contraction and overall heart health).

In addition to the above mentioned benefits, anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3s help to decrease inflammation in the body which decreases susceptibility to disease, promotes healing, and decreases overall inflammatory processes in the body. So, not only can omega-3s decrease the inflammation that leads to heart disease and decreased brain function, it can also help your body recover faster following a hard workout or long day at work (these activities can also cause inflammation in muscles and other stressed body systems). Omega-3 fatty acids may also play an important role in preventing the following: Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, depression, cancer, arthritis, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, psoriasis, acne disorders, menstrual cramps, hyperactivity, and ADHD.

The best source of omega-3 fatty acids can be found naturally in the fatty fish like Alaskan wild salmon, mackerel, herring, lake trout, sardines and albacore tuna. Omega-3s are also found in flaxseed/flaxseed oil, walnuts, Brazil nuts, soy nuts, olive oil, hemp seeds, and pumpkin seeds. Fruits and vegetables that are good sources of omega-3s include: kidney beans, navy beans, tofu, winter and summer squash, certain berries such as raspberries and strawberries, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, romaine lettuce, and collard greens. Wheat germ, free-range beef and poultry are also good sources of omega-3s.

The human body requires a lot of omega-3s on a daily basis and it is often difficult to eat enough through most diets. So, it is recommended to supplement your diet with fish oil capsules to assure you are getting enough omega-3s in your system. Supplying enough omega-3s will allow your body to fight inflammation and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What kind of fish oil should I take?

You should use fish oil that is labeled “pure fish oil” (this means it has less contaminates like Mercury than regular fish oil). Also, the fish oil you buy should be high in DHA and EPA (types of omega 3 fatty acids) content means that the fish oil was extracted from fatty fish living in deep waters (like Salmon and Herring). Usually, this is around 50% of the total capsular value. Lastly, make sure the fish oil you take has been molecularly distilled, which means contaminates have been removed.

How much fish oil should I take?

There are many different opinions on the subject of fish oil dosage. The FDA recommends no more than 3 grams of combined EPA and DHA per day. Most brands of fish oil contain 650mg of EPA and 450mg of DHA per recommended dose (2 capsules). Combined that is 1.1 grams of EPA/DHA. If you took two servings per day (4 capsules), that would be 2.2 grams of combined EPA/DHA. This is an adequate dosage for those with normal body function. Certain conditions and diseases can benefit from more fish oil. Also, those with vigorous exercise regiments and/or current inflammation can benefit greatly from taking extra fish oil, such as up to 4-5 grams (4-5000mg) of fish oil per day.

Products containing Omega-3s available at Body Purification Center:

OmegaCo3 (K-7):
This product provides Omega-3 fatty acids derived from natural sources in an emulsified solution for more effective absorption. This product is specially formulated with key cofactors to support natural metabolism of fatty acids. Highly beneficial for those who have a need for omega-3 fatty acids including individuals with pain, inflammation, or insulin sensitivity that cannot effectively use upper-chain essential fatty acids such as alpha linolenic acid. This product is also useful for supporting healthy insulin receptor sensitivity.

Super EFA Complex (K-8):
This product provides essential fatty acids derived from natural sources and delivered in an emulsified solution for more effective absorption. This product is specially formulated with key cofactors to support natural metabolism of fatty acids. This product also contains natural sources of omega-3s like flaxseed and other vitamin and mineral cofactors.

* For questions regarding these products or any of our other natural products, please consult Green Health Acupuncture directly.