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Omega-3

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While Omega-3 might sound like something from a cheesy intergalactic movie, it is actually an essential ingredient for your body’s maximum health. Discovered almost 30 years ago, this fatty acid was identified as a key component of fish oil. Fisherman often used oils extracted from fish livers to thwart cold symptoms and to treat sunburn.

As time progressed, science was better able to isolate Omega-3 and establish its purpose within the body. Research concluded that Omega-3 was crucial for proper brain function as well as the health of body cell membranes. Without delay, Omega-3 was quickly proclaimed as one of nature’s super nutrients.

Since its finding, science has continued to uncover many important uses for Omega-3. Besides its primary function of aiding in the maintenance of body processes, Omega-3 is also utilized in the prevention and treatment of many common medical conditions.

ARTHRITIS: As the fisherman found, Omega-3 is an excellent anti-inflammatory. Arthritis patients benefit from its use as it reduces inflammation, pain, and stiffness.

HEART HEALTH: Omega-3 is proven to improve heart healthiness by helping to lower triglycerides and reduce the risk of stroke.

MENTAL CONDITIONS: Individuals who suffer from ADHD, depression, and anorexia nervosa have all responded favorably when their diets were supplemented with Omega-3.

CANCERS: Although research is inconclusive, it is believed that Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of contracting certain types of cancers.

Amazingly, despite our great need for Omega-3, the human body cannot produce it. In order to get this critical nutrient, it must be taken from outside sources. While sources vary in concentration of Omega-3, there are many foods from which to obtain the fatty acid.

FISH OILS: Salmon and Cod liver oil are the earliest known source for acquiring Omega-3. They are also considered to hold the highest concentrate of the fatty acid.

SUPPLEMENTS: Dietary supplements for Omega-3 generally use fish oil and flax oil. Supplements are considered superior to whole fish oils due to the fact that Mercury and other unwanted chemicals are removed.

NUT OIL: Oils derived from walnuts, flaxseeds, and soybeans are considered to be high in Omega-3.

PLANT OILS: Among plant oils, the best sources for Omega-3 are canola, corn and Perilla.

VEGETABLES: Cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, and tofu are also good sources.

As with all medications, supplementing with Omega-3 has its risks. There have been numerous known cases of Mercury poisoning associated with the use of fish oils. Mercury is a heavy metal found largely in the ocean. As fish consume organic material, high levels of Mercury are deposited in the liver where the Omega-3’s are stored.

To diminish the possibilities of poisoning, it is best to buy only premium fish oil that has been refined to remove most traces of Mercury or to consume alternative sources of Omega-3.

It is estimated that over half of the world is deficient in Omega-3. With the importance of fatty acids and ease of attaining them, there is no reason anyone should fall behind in this vital nutrient. Omega-3 fatty acids are readily available at most health stores or online for a reasonable price.

Cod Liver Oil

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Cod liver oil has long been proclaimed one of nature’s finest products. Acknowledged for its high content of vitamins A and D along with Omega-3, cod liver oil has been used for centuries in the treatment and prevention of many common illnesses. Discovered by fisherman, cod liver oil was believed to prevent the common cold. In the 1930’s, the essential oil made medical history when physicians determined that it could prevent the development of rickets in children.

With the virtual defeat of rickets, cod liver oil became a common household name. Today, the oil can be purchased at almost any health store or pharmacy and is available in liquid or soft gel tablets. Its cost varies by store, but generally runs between $6.00 and $20.00.

The oil is often praised for its effective treatment of arthritis symptoms. Cod liver oil’s elevated levels of Omega-3 greatly reduce inflammation and allow less painful and more fluid movement in arthritic patients.

Cod liver oil is also widely recognized for its nutritional value. It is frequently suggested for people who live in areas where exposure to sunlight is minimal to raise vitamin D levels in the body. It is also used in a regular diet to boost heart health and brain function.

Here is a breakdown of the key ingredients found in cod liver oil and a limited description of their functions:

  • Vitamin D: Produces strong bones and teeth.
  • Vitamin A: Promotes the health of skin and eyes; also aids in healing.
  • Omega-3: Promotes a healthier heart and brain.

While these vitamins and fatty acids are essential for a healthy body, it is imperative that their recommended daily allowances not be exceeded. Consuming too much of any vitamin can result in serious side effects. Complications of vitamin poisoning may include, but are not limited to:

  • Stroke
  • Illness (nausea, loose stools, vomiting)
  • Yellowing of the skin and eyes
  • Hair loss
  • Kidney Stones/Kidney Damage
  • Hypertension
  • Blood thinning
  • Death

Mercury poisoning is also a concern when using fish oil products. This occurs as fish consume organic matter from the ocean and deposits of Mercury are left in the liver along with nutrients. In order to avoid heavy metal poisoning, it is best to buy only refined Cod liver oil. This is oil in which most traces of Mercury have been removed.
It is also important to note that while the benefits of cod liver oil are extolled by many, there are cases in which it should not be used. DO NOT take cod liver oil if you:

  • Take any kind of anti-coagulant or have a bleeding condition such as hemophilia.
  • Already have sufficient vitamin D due to adequate sun exposure.
  • Take blood pressure medication.

If any of these situations apply, seek the advice of a physician to find alternative forms of dietary supplement. There are many other sources of the same nutrients found in Cod liver oil, many of which can be found in everyday foods such as walnuts and olive oil.