Posted on July 2, 2013

There’s a lot of buzz out there about fish oil, and all the wondrous things it can do for you. Most of what you read is true about the benefits, but; what is the best source, the right form, the correct dose, and why would I need to take this.

Not all omega-3s are the same. The three main forms are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the source being fish and algae extract, and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), sources being raw nuts, seeds, avocados and good oils.

Krill is a wonderful source for omega-3s, however the Krill are now being over harvested, which will have a huge impact on the ecosystem.

EPA and DHA are absorbed in the small intestine, so depending on your digestion function (fish oil makes you belch), enteric coated may work better, with a clear enteric being the best. You want your fish oil in a triglyceride form, not an ethyl ester form, which is not absorbed well. The ratio of EPA to DHA are varied, but the “dis-ease” you are trying to repair determines the ratio. If you are suffering from depression a ratio of 4 EPA:1 DHA. Arthritis or any type of of inflammatory disease (pain) requires a ratio of at least 2 EPA:1 DHA. If cardiovascular disease and elevated cholesterol are the issue than a ratio of 2 DHA: 1 EPA is best. If this is all to confusing, a 1:1 ration will still help. Look for the purest form, not the best deal. The minimum dose is 3 grams (3000mg) a day, in divided doses with food. Doses of 5 grams a day are more therapeutic but you will need to work up to this dose.

So why should you take fish oil; it keeps you cells from oxidizing (aging), it keeps brain, heart and all of the cardiovascular system healthier, it lowers the bad cholesterol, is keeps cortisol levels down and keeps the inflammatory response in check the same way cortisone does. So why shouldn’t you take fish oil?….I can’t think of one reason.