Omega-3s from food or supplements? Keep it simple

A commentary just published in The Journal of the American Dietetic Association discusses whether people should consume omega-3s from food or supplements (Kris-Etherton, Hill, 2008).

Omega-3 fats are essential to the diet because humans cannot make them and they are required for normal growth and development in humans (from conception to old age). We need them.

Although we do not have a US RDA at this time, most experts agree that adults need a minimum of 500 mg of EPA and DHA from fish oil for health maintenance, and more for therapeutic benefits (e.g. reducing triglycerides, relieving pain of arthritis). The American Heart Association recommends a minimum of 1000 mg EPA and DHA from fish oil for individuals at risk for heart disease (2000 – 4000 mg to reduce triglycerides). The American Psychiatric Association recommends a minimum of 1000 mg EPA and DHA from fish oil for people with mental health concerns.

It is reported in the Commentary that the mean intake of EPA and DHA from diet in the US is 100 mg per day. Also reported, the mean intake of fish in the US is 2.92 ounces per week. There is wide gap between minimum recommended intake and actual consumption.

I am a registered dietitian (RD), and my professional license is maintained by The American Dietetic Association. I support the ‘food first’ concept, and recommend people eat a variety of healthful foods (note: chocolate in moderation is a healthful food). I also remember that a dietary supplement, by definition, is a supplement-to-the-diet.

We know Americans are under consuming a nutrient that is essential for good health. We are seeing the direct impact of under consumption of this nutrient (e.g. inflammation). There is a linear relationship between the decrease of omega-3s in our diet and higher prevalence in depression over the last 80 years.

Keep it simple: Choose health and greater longevity. Eat a varied diet, choose fresh fish when available, and supplement your diet to remove the gap.

Just one capsule of PharmaOmega Life provides your daily minimum (or 6-8 capsules of other products).