5 Fast Facts on Fish Oil
Hey Get Fit Family!
Today I am back to share another supplemental secret weapon to add to the nutritional battle gear we all need to keep us healthy!
Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly known as fish oil, supplements have been boasted for their benefits in many aspects of heath for some time now. Multiple researchers have tested the powerful polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA, one of the beneficial types of fats) and there are countless research articles to back up the popular claims.
Here are the top 5 benefits of omega-3 fatty acids:
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Increase in brain health
- Decreased risk of cardiovascular disease
- Increase in mood
- Enhanced immune system
A quick educational moment on omega-3 fatty acids! These types of fats are one of the essential fats, meaning that our body doesn’t produce them and we must get them from an outside source (i.e. foods/supplements). There are three types of omega-3 fatty acids.
- DHA: Fluid and flexible, these PUFAs are part of the brain cell’s membrane and are found in cold-water fish, like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna.
- EPA: Also found in fatty fish, EPA has been determined to play a role in reducing inflammatory processes in the brain.
- ALA: Plant source of omega-3 fatty acids, like flaxseed and walnuts, which is converted to EPA and DHA in the body. This conversion is not as efficient as directly taking in EPA or DHA, therefore additional consumption of these ALA-rich foods are needed.
While fatty fish and some plant sources provide lots of omega-3 fatty acids, it is often difficult to consume enough of these foods to achieve a benefit. The 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend we eat fish at least twice each week. This can be difficult for some people to do, especially those who do not enjoy the taste of seafood.
While I still challenge you to aim for weekly fish consumption and enjoy your omega-3’s through whole food sources, supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids guarantees you are getting the beneficial EPA and DHA each day to optimize your health. At Get Fit NH, Dean and Nancy have already searched out the best fish oil supplement they could find: SHF Omega-3 Natural Fish Oil. Find it in our coolers during your next training time and be sure to check their website for more information.
Remember to check in with your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement! Of special importance, if you are currently on a blood thinner (i.e. Coumadin or Warfarin), please contact your physician before starting a fish oil supplement. Omega-3 fatty acids can also act like a blood thinner, potentially leading to increased bruising and/or bleeding times.
Eating for Health Every Day,
Coach Kristen