Ask Bonnie
September 2006
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Question #1:
What are the benefits of omega 3's?
Answer #1:
For many years, omega 3’s have been one of the most important nutrients I recommend because they have such a broad benefit, are
so well researched, and adverse events related to consumption are virtually nonexistent. In
fact, at a Scripps Integrative Medicine Conference I recently
attended, 21 researchers, all experts in varied medical fields, found omega 3 fats helpful. Why? Because most disease is caused by inflammation. Omega
3’s “put out the fire.”
While its most important role is preventive, I have seen direct benefits from omega-3
supplementation in clients with arthritis/chronic pain, allergies, digestive issues (such as Crohn’s), bone/skeletal issues, autoimmune disorders,
fertility problems, pregnancy for mother and child, mood and behavior disorders, neurological diseases (such as dementia and Alzheimer’s), cardiac
issues (direct improvement in high lipids, in particular, triglycerides), type 2 diabetes, and eye problems.
Most of the research on omega 3 has been done with EPA and DHA in which the Western diet contains little of. Wild caught fatty fish
(such as salmon and sardine), omega-3 eggs, and grass-fed beef are viable sources. Vegetable foods such as flax are not my recommended source because
they are poor converters to omega 3 due to genetic predisposition.
To me, fish oil is the gold standard because it is the only source that is absorbed directly as EPA and DHA. Cod Liver Oil is often
my preferred source because it provides the extra benefit of bioavailable vitamin D, another crucial broad-spectrum nutrient. Barry Sears, PhD.,
author and expert in omega 3 fats has stated that the worst downward spiral in good health in this country occurred when we stopped giving our
children Cod Liver Oil.
There is a vast disparity in fish oil products. High quality fish oil should be rancid-free and have non-detectable levels of
PCB’s, heavy metals such as mercury, and other impurities. Read the label! Many fish oil products contain partially hydrogenated oils, which are
artery clogging trans fats. Be sure to consult with your licensed health professional to
discover what is the best source and dosage for you.
Have a happy, healthy day.
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