Last Updated on October 29, 2021
Fish and algae oils are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids, know as DHA and EPA, are precursors of eicosanoids. Eicosanoids are signaling molecules know for their ability to activate anti-inflammatory pathways in the body.
Omega-3 fatty acids accumulate in fish that eat micro-algae. The algae naturally produce the oils. The fish bio-accumulate the oils produced by the algae. Fish do not produce these oils on their own.
Benefits of EPA oils:
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Cardiovascular health: Omega 3 fatty acids reduce harmful blood cholesterol levels.
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Asthma: Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, a key component to asthma.
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Soothes Arthritis: Painful arthritis is an inflammatory process and omega 3 oils reduce inflammation systemically.
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Alzheimer’s disease: Some studies suggest a protective role omega 3 oils may play in this complicated disease, reducing memory loss and acting as a preventative.
Benefits of DHA oils:
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Brain Development/ function: Developing brains use high qualities of DHA oil. These are especially important for pregnant mothers and young children.
Dangers of Fish Oils:
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Heavy metals: High level predator fish accumulate environmental toxins including mercury, PCBs and Chlordane.
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Dwindling wild fish stocks: Overfishing of the oceans is a great concern for the future health of our planet.
Ways to get Omega 3 Acids Safely & Responsibly:
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Algae supplements: These are newer to the market but are a safe way to get healthy oils with no environmental cost to dwindling fish stocks. We will be researching high quality algae supplements as a possible replacement to fish oils in the near future.
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Responsible companies: Inner Gate acupuncture carries Nordic Naturals brand fish oils. This company has strong sustainability practices. They also have high purity, low heavy metal and low spoilage of their products.
My wife and I are craving some seafood for some reason. Thanks to this article, I now realize that the omega-3 fatty acids inside a fish are good for our mental well-being. Okay, I guess we’ll simply have to find a supplier right away to get some fresh ingredients.