We always hear of people saying that fatty fish is good for us. The reason for all that is they are rich with omega-3 fatty acids. The doctor told me that fish oil would do good for my lipid levels, which consist of cholesterol, HDL (good cholesterol) and LDL (bad cholesterol), as well as triglycerides.
With that I was told to take 1 tablet a day. Not knowing the things I would later learn, I left his office and went on my way.
When it came time to find the fish oil, whoa and behold, to my surprise, there were tons and tons of different variations. Thus, I came to the point where I had to do my own research.
From what I gathered the most important things is to look at the amounts of DHA and EPA which are the fatty acids we are looking for, as well as the safety of the brand. The tricky thing I learned is that different brands have different sources for their supplements. So depending on where they get them and how they are made matters. Also, you may be paying a significant premium for something you can get for a lot lower price.
At the end of the day, I also learned that there are a lot of good brands. To check this out, go to ConsumerLab.com, which tests a lot of different types of supplements including fish oil. And from their tests you can determine for yourself which brand suits you. The thing is to avoid high levels of mercury or unsafe levels of PCBs and other contaminants.
A friend of mine attended a presentation some time ago by a Cardiologist from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. During the talk the doctor suggested that people need about 1 gram per day of DHA+EPA to prevent heart disease, then showed studies wherein people who took high amounts of Omega 3 oils had LDL cholesterol and almost have no coronary artery disease. On the other hand, people who already show signs of coronary artery problems should aim for 2 grams of DHA+EPA per day.
One of the more notable evidence I found on the net stated that a few years ago, a major government study report concluded there is strong evidence that fish helps reduce the risk of heart disease & stroke. Their research points towards the omega 3 fatty acids in fish. It is also said to possibly help prevent arrhythmia & blood clots, reduce chronic inflammation & help lower triglycerides and blood pressure.
Remember now I am by no means a physician nor claim to be one. This is just my experience and data gathered from my research, either via the pharmacist, the internet, the various outlets selling supplements and people who've been using them. Before taking fish oil or any other supplements or drugs make sure to check with your physician first.
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