I have lost count of the health food stores and internet web sites that have supplements called fish DHA or brain products. Don't get me wrong. There is a real relationship between fish DHA and mental health. However, it is important to understand how they interact or you will probably be wasting time and money.
DHA and EPA are two of a group of eight fats that are collectively called omega-3 essential fatty acids. Many, if not most, health care professionals think that deficiencies of these two omega-3s are the biggest nutritional problem in the Western world.
Even though all eight fats work together, concerned consumers are changing to fish DHA supplements as opposed to the old 18/12 EPA/DHA mix. Some of their reasons are:
· Wild cold water fatty fish are the best sources of DHA and EPA. Other sources like eggs, nuts or flax are either not very practical or are inefficient.
· DHA fats makes up 25% of our brain. Deficiencies of it are related to problems like clinical depression, lack of cognition, ADD and Alzheimer's. Plus, the FDA has recognized that the lack it is tied to lower IQs in children. They are now allowing this essential fat to be added to baby formula.
· The scientific literature states that humans have a high brain-to-body size ratio. Put another way, we have large brains. It takes several times more energy to keep our brain going than other primates. Smaller brain mammals devote their time to looking for food but our larger human brains make it possible for us to live inside, have central heat, write books and develop sophisticated societies.
· Although various proteins, vitamins and some minerals are necessary, there is little argument about the essential nature of fish DHA and EPA for brain development starting in the womb. This need continues throughout our lives.
A question often arises. Will the other omega-3 fatty acids work? Yes, but some are just not as effective.
Fish DHA is a the most complex of all the omega-3s. What this means is that, if needed, our bodies will change it to less complicated omega-3 fats. In other words, complex to simple is easier. Your supplement should have a higher amount of it than either EPA or ALA [derived from flax].
Are fish DHA supplements safe? The good ones are. The best companies are able to remove the contaminants from the natural oil. What is left is a nutrient rich, pure product.
My product costs about $17 per month. I take a one gram capsule at breakfast and at dinner. That is the same as having omega-3 seafood every day - and a lot less risky.
Of course, the final decision on a supplement is yours. Whatever you do, choose as if your health depended on it. Otherwise, the cure can be worse than the disease.
Author Resource:
Get my free five-part mini course on the benefits of omega 3, 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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