When it comes to adding supplements, I ask questions. Ask yourself the follow questions and review to see if fish oil should be added or taken out of your diet.
Do you need it? Does research say it is a need for proper health and function? Omega-3 fats (EPA/DHA) commonly found in fish are crucial. Research has shown Omaga-3 fats help with balance cholesterol levels, stabilize blood sugar, slow signs of aging, reduce inflammation, and help improve memory and healthy skin. Interesting, some of these are the reasons why people are medicated. One of the reasons that I recommend fish oil to my patients is to the reduce inflammation which help with joint comfort. Also, Omega-3s are needed for insulin function to help balance blood sugar levels. When it comes to adding any supplement to your nutritional intake, ask yourself do you need it.
Is it already part of your diet? If not, how much should you be taking? If fish is typically not on the menu twice a weekly, you should take about 1000mg of fish oil per day (safe to take up to 2-3grams daily). There are three types of Omega-3 fatty acids: Alpha-linelenic acid (ALA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and Eicosapentenoic acid (EPA). EPA and DHA are both in fish oil. Good sources of ALA are walnuts, olive oil and flaxseeds. Remember not all fish oils are the same. If you plan on adding fish oil to your diet, the fish oil should be at least 600mg of DHA. Also, if you are eating wild caught fish twice a week supplementing with fish oil might not be necessary.
Are you allergic to fish oil? If so, what are your options? There is a small chance fish oil may contain proteins that you may be sensitive to. If you are allergic to fish, Omega-3 fatty acids are also found in following products: flax, algae and grass-fed livestock. Dosage: you can take 3000mg flax or chia seed oil daily.
How should you store it? You should store fish oil in the fridge to prevent it from spoiling and reduce oxidation.
List out vital information to focus on about the supplement. You need fish oil because it is a good source of Omega-3 fats. In our nation, consumption of corn, sunflower, peanut oils are very high. These oils have a high Omega-6 fats which are good but not in such high volumes. The key is to have a good ratio: 1:1 (Omega-6: Omega-3) ratio or 4:1 (Omega-6: Omega-3). The average American diet is 17:1 (Omega-6:Omega-3) which is far from standard.
I take fish oil because research says it protects my heart, arteries, reduces joint discomfort and even fights wrinkles! The air you breathe, the water you drink and proper nutrition are basic needs for the function and health of your body. Proper nutrition means proper fuel to your body. When it comes to supplements, ask questions. If you have any additional questions regarding Omegas, our office is more than happy to help.
For natural health,
Dr. Ida Abraham, Lakeland Chiropractor
New Hope Chiropractic Center