Fish Oil: Did You Know?

by Anthony Scire, CSCS, FMS, IYCA

Did you know that fish oil can reduce morning stiffness and joint pain associated with arthritis?

For all our clients who are working out, receiving physical therapy treatment, or both, you are creating stress in your body and fish oil is an essential supplement and easy to incorporate when it comes to your nutrition.

Fish oil’s omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in reducing inflammation and maintaining healthy cells throughout our bodies. Fish oil is rich in two specific groups of omega 3 fatty acids known as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Say those words five times fast! DHA and EPA, along with Alpha-linolenic acid (AHA), found in foods like flaxseed and walnuts.

Most people in our country get more Omega -6 fatty acids (vegetable oils) because we Americans eat more processed foods and a lot less wild game and plant-based foods, not counting French fries. Our ratio of fat intake of Omega-3’s to Omega-6 fatty acids has evolved from 1:1 ratio to closer to 1:20!

EPA and DHA are beneficial components of fish oil that actually originate in algae, which is the base of the food chain for fish. Fish consume these algae and thus concentrate high amounts of these beneficial fats.

Research has shown that low DHA consumption (and blood levels) is associated with memory loss, difficulty concentrating, (what am I writing about? How about them Cowboys!) Alzheimer’s disease and other mood problems as well.

Look for fish-based formulations (herring, mackerel) when purchasing fish oil. Small fish are lower on the food chain and less likely to accumulate environmental toxins.

Also, add up the amounts of EPA and DHA listed on the back of the product and make sure the total is at least 300mg per 1000mg per capsule. You want to aim for 6-12 daily grams of total fish oil and about 3-6 grams of EPA and DHA. You can buy it in liquid form, or in capsules.

It’s important to find one that you can tolerate the taste of if you are buying it in liquid form. Either way, get yourself some fish oil to aid in recovery and reap the nutritional benefits as well!

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