Not too long ago, the F.D.A. approved the first prescription fish oil. Originally called Omacor, it is now marketed under the name Lovanza. One thing that has not changed is what the drug company says it has - low contaminants and a high concentration of omegas 3s.
No matter what the name, it is still similar to the better otc fish oil supplements available on the Internet. Another thing that has not changed is the expense - ouch.
A quality otc product can be bought for less than $18 per month. Lovaza will cost more than a down payment on remodeling the kitchen. This article will compare the differences so that you can stay healthy and still prepare meals in style.
People who live in coastal areas have been eating fish oil for thousands of years. Although they live in separate geographical areas and speak different languages, they have at least one thing in common - the almost total lack of inflammation related diseases like ADD, swollen joints, cardiovascular issues and skin problems like eczema.
Unfortunately, in the past few decades, they have been eating more of a "western" diet and less omega 3 enriched fish. The result? They now have more of the diseases I just mentioned. Plus, they have access to prescription drugs that they did not use to need.
There are two omega 3 fatty acids that are found both in otc fish oil and Lovaza's prescription version - DHA and EPA. Some otc products will add another omega 3 called ALA but it is not needed. Lovaza and the better otc products do not have it.
Why is there a prescription fish oil in the first place?
Doctors are trained to use drugs to fix problems. However, the medical communities in both Europe and the U.S. are slowly realizing that, in many cases, natural solutions are safer and more effective than drug related fixes. A prescription fish oil drug allows doctors to feel comfortable using natural ingredients and still stay in their comfort zone. The fact that Lovaza costs about ten times as much as an otc fish oil supplement evidently does not seem to concern them.
How does Lovaza justify the cost?
They claim that they have very little of the ocean pollutants found in live fish like salmon, mackerel or sardines. This is true, but the better otc fish oil products are just as clean and have independent lab reports to prove it.
They also state that the dose concentration per capsule [84%] is higher than conventional otc products. True, but this is not necessarily a benefit. Sometimes, the body can not use massive overloads of nutrients given to it so quickly.
For instance, I take three capsules per day of my supplement. This equals two capsules of Lovaza. This allows me flexibility in spreading the amounts over the day. This is why we eat three meals per day instead of one big one at breakfast. Did I mention that I still spend 90% less and probably get more health benefits?
The omega 3s in Lovaza are the same as in otc fish oil. There are no pollutants or chemical additives in either of them. If your doctor tries to prescribe Lovaza, ask he or she for an otc alternative. Remember, it is your money. To their credit, some doctors are already doing this. They understand the expense and the fact that an expensive prescription for food is not needed.
If this sounds like your doctor, then my advice is too keep him/her. Otherwise, my website can help your research. Show it to your doctor. It might also be of use there.
Author Resource:
Get my free five-part mini course on the benefits of omega 3 for the whole family, including critical information on why you should take omega3 fish oil .
To sign up for the course and get more tips on the importance of omega 3, visit my website: http://www.omega-3-guide.com/
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