Tuesday, December 31, 2013

 

OMEGA-3 FROM FISH OIL…TOO MANY CHOICES!

Q.  I went to buy some in-expensive fish oil and was blown away by the choices.  What is good and what isn’t?  Do you have any recommendations?
Andrea V
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A.  Most shoppers have the misconception that the “fish” in fish oil is always salmon.  Please be aware that “fish oil” is just that.  That is, oil derived from ANY available fish source.  This raw material fish source can be sardines, anchovies, mackerel, krill etc.  Basically whatever is cheapest on the market for that manufacturing run.  If you specifically want salmon or cod fish liver oil then you have to purchase the brands that manufacture from these fish sources.

I assume you are taking the fish oil for the omega-3 (heart healthy substance) content.  Most OTC (over the counter) fish oils are 1000 mg. capsules.  This doesn’t mean your getting 1000 mg. of omega-3 in each capsule.  Instead, it means that this capsule and all of its content WEIGHS 1000 mg.  This is a measurement of weight…not content.  You’re probably getting approximately 300 mg of actual omega-3 in each 1000 mg capsule.

Be sure that whichever brand you are buying tells you these three things:  The exact omega-3 content.  The exact EPA and DHA potencies (these are the medicinal components of omega-3).  And finally, whether their product is purified.  This purification can go by several key words on the labels.  Look for the words purified, ultra-purified or molecularly distilled.

With years of research backing it up, the proof shows that omega-3 from any source is good for cardiovascular (heart) health.  Remember, consistency is the key.

AMV

*Health Disclaimer: This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  



  





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