Consumers who walk down the vitamin section of almost any large grocery chain will probably find a large selection of EPA and DHA supplements. They are there because customers are aware that fish oil products can be very beneficial - but - do they understand what they are buying?
The most widely available sources of EPA and DHA are cold water oily fish such as salmon, mackerel or sardines. Other sources such as walnuts, flax or animals raised on green vegetation are either inefficient or impractical.
EPA and DHA are classified as omega 3 essential fatty acids, which means the body can not make them. Here is where it gets tricky. DHA is the most complex molecule of all the omega 3 group. In nutrition, it is easy for the body to break down a complex molecule into something simpler like EPA. The reverse is not so easy and becomes more difficult as we age.
Put another way, it takes a whole lot less skill and energy to take apart a car engine than to put one together. This is why your more sophisticated supplements have more DHA than any other omega 3.
Both of these essential fats are needed. Studies from all over the world have convinced both the conventional medical and the alternative medicine communities to join together in supporting their many health benefits.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) stated: "DHA intake can contribute to normal brain development of the fetus, infant and young children." The American FDA has already approved adding it to baby formula.
Other research has shown EPA is a help in reducing certain types of cancer and bone loss.
Both the US military and NASA are investigating adding fish oil omega 3s to their approved diets. This goes along with what the FDA and American Heart Association have already recommended.
Here is the problem. The FDA and EPA warn against eating too much seafood. They think twice a week should be the limit. Other experts think that it should be less.
They are concerned about the heavy metals, PCBs and other pollutants that fish absorb in the natural food chain. Farmed species that are taken out of the natural food chain have very little omega 3s in them.
Most health professionals think that the average Westerner needs about 2-3 grams per day of EPA and DHA combined. Most of us will not come close to that in our typical diets. This is why so many people are turning to omega 3 fish oil supplements.
It is important to use a purified supplement. Otherwise, you will get the same contaminants found in the fish. Quality products believe in full disclosure. Some of them even provide lab reports on their websites to prove their claims. Remember, you are looking for EPA and DHA, not pollutants or chemicals additives.
My website can help your research.
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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