Omegas, Fish Oil & DHA…

I have had numerous questions/emails regarding supplementing with omegas and DHA. Yes, I do recommend supplementing with various Omega 3 and DHA rich oils regularly, especially during pregnancy and for your babies/kids. Let’s talk about the only way they should be consumed, specific brands and vegan versus fish sources…

First of all, what makes them important? Experts agree that the typical western diet is deficient in omega-3 fatty acids because most people do not eat enough omega-3-rich foods. One of the most beneficial actions you can do to help prevent disease and other health problems is to increase your intake of the omega-3 fats. Omega-3 fats are high in two essential fatty acids (which means your body does not produce them and must receive them from foods): DHA and EPA. EPA and DHA are the noteworthy components naturally provided in algal DHA, raw, cold-pressed fish and flaxseed oil. Omega-3 is also found in chia seeds, flaxseeds, macadamia nuts, walnuts, coconut oil, and dark green leafy vegetables, among many other foods.

“Algal DHA is a healthier form of pure DHA and Omega 3 (fish get their DHA up the food chain from algae), and it does not endanger fish populations. It also does not contain any mercury or any other contaminant found in fish. The special algae are grown in environmentally sustainable tank farms, just as they grow spirulina. Several studies have shown that algal DHA is more easily utilized by the body. Also algal DHA does not have the saturated fat content that fish oil has, so algal DHA is actually better for the heart and arteries than fish (or krill) oil.” This was C Admas’ comment on Algal DHA who is a Naturopath who holds a Ph.D. in Natural Health Sciences, a Doctorate of Sciences in Integrative Health, and a degree in Traditional Naturopathy, and more. He is part of the writing team for a great site: www.realnaturalhealth.com

DHA is important for the brain, focus, sensory and central nervous system function and ADD. Omega 3 is important for child development, hair, skin, cells, a balanced central nervous system, strong immune system, hormone regulation, brain function, mood control, heart health, and much more. I highly recommend taking 2-3 grams of algal DHA and/or flaxseed oil.

Recommended Companies: When taking Fish oil, make sure the oil has been tested for mercury and other metals such as lead, PCGs and dioxins; is from a very good source of cleaner waters using fish such as salmon, sardines, anchovies, krill; and has been molecularly distilled. Ideally the oil should be in a dark glass to prevent oxidation. I generally prefer oils in a jar versus capsules because it is more cost effective and capsules are generally stored in hard plastic-type containers. The following companies follow these guidelines and I have used personally and for my son, beginning at 10 months.

Nordic Naturals - They not only have an entire line for adults but have a very vast line for babies and kids. From liquids to gel caps to even gummy omegas. Their newest product was featured at a recent health/supplement show I went to called “Baby’s DHA“. It gives the right amount omega 3’s needed for infants beginning at 5 pounds up to 35 pounds. It is a great product and could easily be added to your baby’s bottle or simply given in dropper form. I wish it had been available when my son was a baby! My son currently loves their Children’s DHA which has a berry after taste – he drinks it by the spoonful!
Health from the Sun/Sea uses fish that is wild from the Arctic Ocean and Nordic Seas and is 3^rd party tested. They have a very clean line of fish, flax and hemp oils and have a new product called “Eco DHA” which was impressive and looks like a great source of omegas.
Carlson’s (Norwegian fish oil) – When I was pregnant this was the only oil I could stomach for some reason. I love that their oils are also in a dark glass bottle and I never once had that “fish burp” that you sometimes get with some fish oils. I used their lemon fish oil every day, about 1-2 Tbsp daily, my entire pregnancy. I added it to my morning baby green shake and it added a nice after taste.
Barleans – They have a new yummy Omega Swirl line featuring flax oil, fish oil and plant-based DHA that is tasty and amazing in green drinks and smoothies. I also like that they have the vegan source of DHA because most companies only use DHA from fish oil but for vegans out there you can purchase Barlean’s flax oil that has an algae-based DHA added!
Algal DHA: Companies that provide good sources include Barleans, Udo’s Choice and Deva – But there are many more companies making it right now because it is becoming more popular.