Regular readers know I am doing 50 healthy things this year in honor of my 50th birthday. Here’s number 48 – fish oil.
In the past 10 years or so, many Americans have turned to fish oil supplements as a strategy to include more Omega-3 fatty acids in their diets. Most medical experts agree that Omega-3 plays an important role in reducing various types of inflammation.
Studies about the role Omega-3s play in heart health are mixed. Some purport it lowers blood pressure, reduces triglycerides, slows the development of plaque in the arteries, reduces abnormal heart rhythms and lessens the chance of sudden cardiac death. Other studies have refuted some of these benefits. However, when I asked my primary care physician her opinion, she cited a study showing that women who take fish oil supplements have a greater chance of surviving a heart attack if they do have one. For her, that is enough to think fish oil is a good idea.
In addition to heart health, Omega-3 has also been cited as beneficial to brain function, skin and hair growth and several other diseases such as arthritis, lupus, osteoporosis, asthma, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, breast cancer and colon cancer.
Of course, diet is usually seen as the best way to get essential nutrients. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acid include wheat germ, fresh fruits and vegetables, along with fish, olive oil, garlic, flax seed and walnuts. However, many nutritionists say it’s actually hard to get enough Omega-3s from diet alone, which leads to the consideration of a supplement.
Each individual should definitely discuss his or her own situation with a doctor. But for me, the benefits of supplementation seem reasonable. So, the question becomes, which supplement is best?
My doctor recommended the Kirkland brand from Costco. Based on price and quality, she thinks it’s a good bet. I’ve recently heard about some other products that are interesting, though. My son’s athletic trainer, John Renzi, gave him a product called Coromega 3+D. It’s an orange-flavored squeeze packet that promises better absorption than fish oil softgels. My son likes the taste. My friend, Lori Cross, the mother of two young girls, also uses an interesting product with her family. It’s called Barlean’s Lemon Zest Omega Swirl. She uses it in smoothies and even as an ice cream topping. What a great strategy to sneak in the “good stuff.”
I also find it interesting that so many brands are looking for ways to make health more palatable. I predict we will see even more in 2015.
So, what’s your opinion? Do you think fish oil supplements are worthwhile? Why or why not?
The Main Artery 