FISH OIL 101: THE OMEGA YOU NEED

By: Dr. Dan Weessies DC, E. Bozik

​Most of us are simply not getting enough omega-3 fats. In fact, nearly all Americans are deficient. And that’s frightening, because omega-3 fats are vital to overall health. Omega-3 fats are essential polyunsaturated fats. “Essential” meaning your body can’t make them, you must get omega-3 fats from your diet. Ideally, from small fatty fish, that are free of toxins.

Omega-3 fatty acids (including DHA & EPA) are necessary for: 

• Cognitive function
• Cardiovascular health
• Weight management
• Joint and muscle health
• Healthy digestion
• Fetal development
• Visual acuity
• Blood clotting

However, most Americans don't eat enough of the foods that contain healthy omega-3 fats and eat way too many omega-6 fats. Which is why we recommend a high quality fish oil supplement.

Choosing A Fish Oil
Not all fish oil is created equally! The majority of fish oils on the market are low quality and highly processed. Processing fish oil is complicated, often resulting in an inferior product unless the time and investment is taken to prepare a high quality formula. Many companies cut corners by skimping on what you should care about most- the effectiveness and quality of your supplement.

The Good Stuff

Triglycerides
Triglyceride formulations of fish oils are bioavailable- meaning they are easily digested and absorbed for maximum effectiveness. In fish, DHA and EPA fatty acids start in the natural triglyceride form.

The Bad Stuff

Ethyl Esters (EE)
Ethyl esters are a synthetic form of DHA and EPA, not readily absorbed by the body. EE formulations MUST be processed by the liver and often cause unpleasant side effects like burping, upset stomach, flu-like symptoms, fishy taste, back pain, and skin rash.

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