Omega-3
Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that plays an integral role in your bodily function, as it cannot be produced by the body itself, the omega-3 that we need is often derived from our diet or via supplements. Coming from both plant and animal sources, this essential fatty acid is a must-have supplement for our overall health and wellbeing supporting major organs within your body such as the heart, brain and eyes.
Benefits of Omega-3
There are three primary forms of omega-3: Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), each of the above can be derived from different sources and play a unique role in the body.
A dietary source of ALA may include flax seeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, ALA is primarily used for energy by the body. Fish oil, for example, is high in EPA, and despite its many functions in the body, it is commonly transformed into DHA; the most integral fatty acid. DHA is used as the building blocks for the structural components of your brain and the retina of your eyes, amongst several other body parts.
Considering that the heart beats up to 100,000 times per day, providing it with the correct building blocks is vital to maintaining its health. The brain sends millions of messages throughout the body every single day, so in order to sustain this level of functionality, we must make sure it receives everything it needs, a primary component for this being omega-3 essential fatty acids.
How to take Omega-3
Fish oil capsules can be taken once a day with a glass of water alongside your main meal. Do not consume excess of this, please discuss the addition of omega-3 supplements to your diet with your primary health care provider if you take any other medication or have specific dietary requirements.
Side effects of fish oil
Although side effects of taking omega-3 fish oil are limited, sometimes they can cause:
Heartburn
Nosebleeds
Loose stools
Who shouldn't take omega-3
Omega-3 should be avoided by the following groups of people, unless discussed with your primary health care provider;
Pregnant/breastfeeding
Bipolar
Diabetics
Someone with a pacemaker
A person taking other medication.