Which Is the Best Of The Five Most Often Discussed Omega 3 Sources

Omega 3 sources can be a confusing topic even for those who have some knowledge of the subject. In this article titled “Finding The Best Omega 3 Sources” we will walk with you through this world of extensive information and misinformation and hopefully shed some light on this confusing topic.

Omega 3 (also known as omega 3 fat, omega 3 acids, omega 3 fatty acids, essential fatty acids etc..) are not produced by the body. There are three major players: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). EPA and DHA the two most readily used by the body with ALA requiring conversion upon ingestion. Some people don’t convert ALA very well making it even less important in the overall scheme of things.

So finding the best omega 3 sources we are actually looking for foods and supplements high in DHA and EPA.

One of these sources is fatty fish which are a staple of most Eskimo families. Studies conducted on the Inuit Eskimos showed that a fatty fish diet produced increased HDL cholesterol and decreased triglycerides (fatty material circulating in the blood). Fatty cold water fish supplements containing above average levels of EPA and DHA have shown impressive results in several large clinical studies. The results were that fatty cold water fish oil supplements reduced low density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) and triglyceride levels.

Another one of the omega 3 sources high in omega 3 fat are nuts. A number of different types of nuts contain high levels of ALA including almonds, cashews, pecans, and walnuts. Some research suggests that walnuts may have the highest concentration but before you attempt to corner the market there is one caveat. Nuts are high in ALA which must be converted to DHA and EPA. Some peoples body’s don’t make this conversion very well so generally speaking those foods naturally high in EPA and DHA are a better way to go.

Another frequently discussed omega 3 sources is flaxseed oil. While we are big believers in flax and flax seed oil it doesn’t seem to produce results on

par with fish oil. The reason is that it doesn’t contain EPA and contains much lower concentrations of DHA than fish oil. The bottom line is much higher doses are required to produce the same results. The advantage is it may be more palatable for some.

Additionally, certain marine life are excellent omega 3 sources. The two most often cited are algae and krill. The problem here is not so much as to whether they have the right balance in omega 3 fatty acids, rather in their production, quality, availability, and affordability. Nevertheless, if you can find algae or krill supplements produced by a dependable manufacturer, these are a couple of very good option worth considering.

In summary, the omega 3 sources we have covered are cold water fatty fish, nuts, flaxseed oil, krill, and algae. Certainly all the above omega 3 sources should be considered. After all, if you can add a healthful option to your diet regime it is always worth considering.  But if you had to pick one of the above omega 3 sources research suggests that pharmaceutical grade pure fish oil is far and away your best option.

 

Rob D. Hawkins is an enthusiastic advocate for the use of natural health products and natural living
with over 10 years experience in the field of natural health and wellness.
Learn more about natural remedies and natural health at
Purchase Remedies.com

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/which-is-the-best-of-the-five-most-often-discussed-omega-3-sources-1483308.html