The Importance of Fish Oil

If you are a regular in my classes, you’ve heard me tout the benefits of fish oil.  A recent article in Men’s Journal (Nov. 2011) discusses the importance of fish oil for a number of health reasons, including preventing heart disease, and warding off diseases such as arthritis and diabetes.  I’ve also read in other sources how important it is for brain health as well as assisting with fat burning.  You should be looking for fish oil supplements that contain primarily two types of omega-3s:  DHA and EPA.  DHA is really important for brain health, which is why you see so many children’s DHA supplements – to assist their growing brains.  EPA is very important for heart health and for reducing inflammation.    The article ends with three recommended brands of Omega-3s.  I’ve been ordering the Carlson Super Omega-3 from Swanson Vitamins for almost a year and have really noticed a difference in my skin, muscles and joints.  On my next order, I am going to try the Swanson EFAs Super EPA that the article recommends as the best value.  Here are a couple of other tips regarding omega-3 supplements:  1) if you have trouble swallowing these big pills, you can try taking them with hot water (they get softer and go down easier) or you can buy a children’s version and take a whole lot of them; 2) if you tend to taste fish all day after taking your omega-3 supplement, try freezing the pills (they take longer to digest and get further along your digestive tract before the coating breaks down).  So go find the right omega-3 supplement for you and happy fishing!