Fish Oil … Good or Bad?

I went back and forth deciding whether I would recommend fish oil in the Conscious Nutrition Program. It isn’t that we are fish oil deficient, however that we are imbalanced with our ratio of Omega 3’s to Omega 6’s. A healthy balance of this ratio is essential to reduce systemic inflammation in the body. (prolonged inflammation = an environment for many diseases to begin) The ideal ratio is 1:1, but the average American’s ratio is more like 20:1, or even 50:1 in favor of omega-6.

Your body can’t produce its own omega-3s. Omega-3s protect against heart disease, stroke, control blood clotting, reduce inflammation, help build cell walls in the brain, makes skin healthy, promote joint and bone health, and improve mental health.  These are all great reasons to recommend Omega 3’s. However, do you want to gamble to make sure you are getting it from your diet or implement a high quality fish oil product as a back up? Most people are not getting enough Omega 3’s in their diet and buying their fish oil from a vendor on the sale rack.

There are recent studies showing that the fish oil being marketed does not include the amount that is stated on the label. Supplements are not regulated by the FDA, and this can hinder quality and control. The companies who have the highest standards are the companies who are certified in quality control and practice sustainable fishing.

Also, there was  recent study regarding Omega 3 fish oil and prostate cancer increase in men. This study has a variety of information missing to make an informed decision.

Your options:

1. Algae derived EPA/DHA – This will insure that you will not be consuming fish with heavy metals or toxicity. I recommend this version for my vegetarian clients, however, the amounts of EPA/DHA are lower and you may need to consume a larger quantity.
2. Krill oil – Krill are tiny shrimp like animals, basically what fish eat. Great source of Omega’s and antioxidants. There is less research on krill and the cost is a bit higher.
3. Omega 3 Fish oil Capsules – When choosing products, I review quality, cost and availability. There is a prescription option, which is over $100 per month if your insurance doesn’t cover it. Even if your insurance does cover it, why is it so expensive? I recommend to compare prices by the quantity of capsules you need to consume to meet 1,000 mg of EPA/DHA. For example if one product is lower in cost and it takes 4 capsules to equal that amount, you are not getting a great deal. I chose a company with high standards for our Conscious Nutrition brand. If you are in a bind and need one that is over the counter, we recommend Nordic Naturals.
4. Food!: If you do not feel comfortable implementing supplements, make sure you are getting it in your diet. Supplements are just that, they supplement your diet.

Best plant sources of Omega 3’s:

• Flaxseed
• Avocados
• Chia seeds
• Hemp seeds
• Nuts (especially walnuts)
• Pumpkin seeds
• Brussels sprouts
• Dark leafy green vegetables

I personally take my Omega 3 fish oil in the morning and notice my brain works a bit better. Please listen to your body and learn how to support it best through food.

Heather Fleming