A large number of people take fish oil supplements to help maintain heart and vascular health. Recent research suggests some consumers may not get what they are paying for. Using new research from a company called LabDoor, researchers found that the omega-3 content of six of these products was 30 per cent below what was on the labels.
More problems were found when researchers looked at two specific omega-3s, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The tests revealed that at least 12 products had DHA levels that were 14 percent lower than reported on the packaging.
One of the most important essential fatty acids is polyunsaturated fatty acids called omega-3 fatty acids. Our diets should be rich in omega-3 sources throughout our lifetime because it plays a key role in all our life stages. In addition to fatty fishes such as mackerel, tuna, sardines and some vegetarian sources, such as flaxseed, soybean, walnuts etc., omega-3 fatty acids are also found in a variety of foods you eat. You can also opt for omega-3 rich supplements too.
Before you buy any omega-3 supplement, you should always read the label to ensure it is safe for consumption:
A Balance between EPA and DHA: Fish oil supplements should provide EPA and DHA in a 2:1 ratio. Choose a supplement that contains the right ratio of EPA and DHA in its omega 3 fatty acid composition. Many supplements only mention omega-3
fatty acids and do not specify how much EPA and DHA are contained.
Helps meet recommended daily intake:
You need to ensure that your daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids meets the recommended daily allowance as per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR, 2010). To prevent heart-related diseases, make sure you get the recommended daily
intake of EPA and DHA from your diet. For that reason, it is recommended that you take GNC fish oil capsules every day. An adult needs 250 – 500 mg of combined EPA and DHA omega fatty acids per day. A pregnant woman or a nursing mother
needs an additional 200 mg of DHA. The ideal requirement for children is between 50 and 100 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily.
You should consult your doctor for knowledge about omega supplement dosages that are most appropriate for you, depending on various factors including your activity level, diet, and overall health.
EPA should always be on the higher side: More EPA is associated with reducing inflammation and, therefore, helps to improve immunity and the function of joints. Make sure you read the label carefully so you can determine the amount of EPA contained in the product; it should be higher than DHA.
A minimum amount of DHA should be present: The European Food Safety Authority recommends a minimum quantity of DHA. For optimal heart, brain, and eye health, omega-3 supplements should contain 250 mg of DHA. Make sure the daily serving of the supplements helps meet this requirement.
Purity is a must: When mercury is ingested or inhaled in large quantities, it is known to cause varying degrees of toxicity. There has been evidence linking these toxins to neurological dysfunction and increased risks of cancer. Omega 3 fatty acids in fish oils must be purified in multiple steps to remove contaminants such as mercury, lead, heavy metals, and PCBs.
Premium: The enteric coating helps prevent the capsule from dissolving until it reaches your small intestine. The reason for this is to prevent fish burps, which are common in fish oil capsules. Fortunately, it can also mask the foul odor associated with rancid fish oil.
Amount per serving: Make sure you check the serving size and the quantity of the products. Forex. What number of capsules will provide me with all the EPA and DHA I need each day. With GNC, you can choose from a variety of fish oil supplements based on your lifestyle, age and specific requirements. Click here to know more.
For most people, a regular fish oil supplement should be adequate to provide the necessary level of omega-3 fatty acids.
However, you must make certain that the supplement contains the ingredients it says it contains, and pay particular attention to the amount of EPA and DHA that it contains.
In order to reap the benefits of omega-3 supplements, it’s best to consume them at the same time as fat-containing meals since fat accelerates absorption.
As a matter of fact, omega-3 fatty acids seem to be one of the most beneficial supplements one can take. Be sure to make the right choice when you make it
OFF
