Omega - 3 Oil: What You MUST Know

Let's say that we have two different bottles (brands) of fish oil sitting side-by-side.  Each bottle had 1,000 mg capsules.  Are the capsules the same?  The answer is NO.

 Here's why:  In regards to omega-3s, there are HUGE differences in sources, quality, and quantity. The best source of omega-3 oil is from cold-water fish such as sardines, anchovies, and salmon.  Warm water and fresh water  fish are not considered acceptable sources of omega-3.  Did we say that eating warm water fish was bad? No, we did not.  They just aren't good sources of omega-3.

Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon

In regards to quality a lot has to do with the extraction process of the oil from its source, as well as the elimination of PCBs, dioxins, furans, PAHs, mercury, and of course, other heavy metals. You obviously want to remove the junk while still preserving the quality of the oil.

When it comes to the right amount, here is what you must know:  At the very least, an average adult should be taking no less than "1,000 mg of omega-3 or fish oil per day."  We specifically mentioned EPA. 

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) is the heart and soul of fish oil.  It, along with DHA (which is much more important for little ones and nursing moms), are what counts when it comes to omega-3 oil.  Two 1,000 mg capsules may have very different levels of EPA.  Some have as little as 70 mg, and others have as much as 750 mg.  The point?  Fish oil...is not fish oil...is not fish oil.

You have to know what to look for.  In our practice, we carry only the finest quality omega-3 oil.  Is our omega-3 more expensive than what you'd find at a warehouse club, department store, or supplement store?  Absolutely.  We will never apologize for carrying quality products.

People ask me, "Dr. Hansen why do you write about nutrition"?

As a Neuro-Spinal chiropractor, which is different than conventional chiropractic, we focus on detecting and correcting Neuro-Spinal Dysfunction. Anything that complements our care we recommend to our patients - one of these recommendations is a healthy diet, including Omega-3 fish oils.