You must read and accept the disclaimer to use this site. Updated for monthly, 2011

You must read and accept the disclaimer to use this site.

Your Questions with Documented Answers

By Dr. Roc Ordman, PhD

  Fish Oil: An Essential Heart and Brain Food

Fish oil is now a major factor necessary in the diet to retain optimal health! The oil contains two essential nutrients, DHA and EPA, which make up the membranes of nerve cells, especially important for health of your heart and brain. In June 2006, a symposium at Tufts University [1] summarized the phenomenal research advances in recent years that explain why fish oil is so important to optimal health. "Changes in diet the past century have caused an epidemic of subclinical deficiency in omega-3 [fish] oil, leading to heart disease, inflammatory disorders, mental and psychiatric diseases, and poor nerve and brain development."[2]

  Fish oil capsules are really important to get every day. For heart concerns, the American Heart Association now recommends those with risk for heart disease will benefit from 1 to 3 grams of fish oil daily [3]. For developing a healthy brain, one needs DHA and EPA from the instant of conception all the way through life (4).  In fact, adults who get enough fish oil are likely to become and stay smarter.  Fish oil has the most important omega-3 or n-3 oils.  One study explains "supplement use and erythrocyte n–3 content are associated with better cognitive aging." (5)

  Note that most fish oil capsules contain 300 mg of the essential omega-3 oils, known as EPA and DHA.  So to get 1 gram per day in your diet, you need to take at least 3 capsules.  Taking 10 capsules is necessary to get 3 grams per day.   For many people, this may be essential to avoid heart disease and brain disorders. Based on more than 100 observational, intervention, and experimental studies, the Food and Drug Administration has reviewed the claim, that fish oil reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease (6).

Over 100 trials provide overwhelming evidence of how we can protect the health of our hearts and minds.