DHA Fish Oil
Benefit of Fish Oil Supplement

Rich in the omega 3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, fish oil is an important dietary supplement. The human body does not produce omega 3 fatty acids, so they must be obtained from the diet. Most people do not consume enough fish to maintain proper levels of omega 3 fatty acids.

Plant sources of omega 3's, such as flaxseed, are not as readily available for use by the human body. This is because they come in the form of ALA fatty acids and must be converted into EPA and DHA. This conversion does not always happen smoothly, especially for older folks, and those with less than optimal health.

DHA Fish Oil...

Fish oil is the best known source of naturally occurring EPA and DHA omega 3 fatty acids. The health benefit of fish oil supplement capsules is directly related to these omega 3s.

The brain may reap the largest benefit of fish oil supplement capsules. Approximately one-third of the brain's mass is omega 3 fats. The concentration of DHA in the brain is higher than in other organs of the body. Low levels of DHA have been linked to neurological conditions like depression and attention deficit disorder. High quality DHA fish oil supplements nourish the brain, helping it to rebuild and maintain its health.

Another organ that experiences the benefit of fish oil supplement capsules is the heart. Doctors and scientists believe that EPA and DHA fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. There is supportive research for this belief. Daily supplements of the omega-3 EPA and DHA fish oil may ensure normal heart and blood flow. The Food and Drug Administration, which usually has very little to say about health supplements other than basic vitamins and minerals, recognizes a reduced risk of heart disease as a "qualified" health claim.

The FDA recommends no more than two grams per day of an omega 3 EPA and DHA fish oil supplement, but some doctors recommend as much as five grams per day. If the fish oil is purified or pharmaceutical grade, there should be no side effects related to the higher dosage other than a fishy aftertaste and diarrhea in a few people. The fishy aftertaste can be avoided by taking the supplement with food or juice. Anyone experiencing diarrhea should reduce the dosage. Relief of constipation is another benefit of fish oil supplement capsules.

However, because fish oil is a blood thinner, you should advise your doctor you are considering their use if you are already on other blood thinners.

Due to concerns regarding mercury contamination and other by-products of industrial pollution, it is recommended that you choose an EPA and DHA fish oil supplement that has been purified using molecular distillation technology.