Omega 3 Supplements

Omega 3 can be described as a nutrient, or rather a type of fat, which is usually derived from most varieties of oil-rich fish, as well as certain plant oils. They belong to the family of “good fat”, i.e., polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Therefore, omega 3 is not just beneficial for the body; it is an essential part of any healthy diet. People who eat an adequate amount of fish and healthy plant oils generally get an adequate amount of Omega 3 through their diet. However, in case of those people, who do not consume an adequate amount of omega 3 rich foods, health experts may recommend omega 3 supplements.

What are the different types of omega 3 supplements?

While most health experts usually advise people to increase their intake of foods that are high in Omega 3, for some people, omega 3 supplements may be a better alternative to increase the levels of this essential fat in the body.

Some of the best omega 3 supplements include:

• Cod Liver Oil
• Emu Oil
• Evening Primrose Oil
• Fish Oil
• Flaxseed Oil
• Krill Oil
• Salmon Oil
• Seal Oil
• Shark Liver Oil

There are also certain vegetarian omega 3 supplements, made from linseed or flaxseed oil. Many health experts state that the best Omega 3 supplements include cod liver oil and krill oil. However, before choosing any omega 3 fish oil supplements, it is important for people to read all the ingredients. This is because some brands of the supplement contain the oil of fish other that the ones that are high in omega 3.

Benefits of omega 3 supplements

By consuming omega 3 supplements, a person can enjoy all the health benefits that are associated with the consumption of fish. Given below are some of the most common benefits of omega 3 supplements:

• Lower levels of cholesterol and triglyceride
• Reduction in the risk of cancer
• Decreases the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease
• Easing inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis pain and joint stiffness
• Preventing blood clots
• Improving the levels of glucose as well as the lipid levels in diabetics
• Fighting off depression
• Lowering the risks of sudden cardiac death due to heart disease
• Controlling the levels of blood pressure

Omega 3 supplements side effects

Just like any other supplement, there could be certain side effects that are associated with omega 3 supplements too. Given below are some of the most commonly seen side effects of omega 3 supplements:

• Increased bleeding
• Diarrhea or soft stools
• Upset stomach
• Fishy burps
• Thinned blood
• Gas
• Heartburn

There are quite a few ways in which people can reduce some of the side effects of omega 3 supplements. In order to minimize heartburn or the fishy burp, it is best to freeze the supplements before consuming them. Taking the supplements before a meal can also help reduce the upset stomach. However, if the side effects are too severe, it may be best for people to stop taking the supplements altogether.

Recommended dosage of omega 3 supplements

There is no particular recommendation for omega 3 supplements; however, health experts recommend that no more than 3 grams should be consumed on a daily basis. This is all the more important for those people who are taking certain medication. Parents are also advised to consult a doctor for the dose of omega 3 supplements for children.

There are several omega 3 supplements reviews that are easily available, through online resources. However, even in spite of the best omega 3 supplement review, people are advised to check with a medical health care provider before taking them.