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Fish oil (Omega-3 Fatty Acids)

Description

Fish oil provides a high dose formula of omega-3 fatty acids in a favorable ratio. Fish oil is vital to the health of organs and tissues, especially the skin. Fatty acids are building blocks for hormones and cell membranes and precursors for the highly active prostaglandins.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Inflammation - Skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis) - Allergies - Heart disease - Hypertension - Premature aging - Autoimmune disorders - Ulcerative colitis - Neonatal development - Arthritis - Immune impairment - PMS - Reduced sex drive - Menopause - Fibrocystic breast disease

Clinical Applications/Research

Balance

A balance of the fatty acids is essential. Allergic eczema is believed by some to be caused by an imbalance of fatty acids in the body (Heinerman, John. Heinerman’s Encyclopedia of Fruits, Vegetables and Herbs. Parker Publishing, West Nyack, NY 1988 p. 134). Heinerman proposes that allergy relief can be experienced after taking fatty acid supplements a month before season (ibid, p. 184). In fact, Heinerman believes that a host of diseases, including coronary artery disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, allergic eczema, cancer, premature aging, chronic inflammation and autoimmune disorders are related to an imbalance of fatty acids in the body (ibid, p. 134).

Cardiovascular

Fish oil (omega-3/n-3) seems to have many beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. EPA-DHA (found in fish oil) is converted into the 3-series prostaglandins. Increased intake of fish oils (as in the Eskimos) has been shown to decrease risk of atherosclerosis, decrease angina pain and decrease triglyceride levels. Fish oil should not be combined with anticoagulant therapy such as coumadin (unless under the supervision of a physician).

Gastrointestinal complaints

In addition, the effect of fish oil on ulcerative colitis was investigated in 87 patients. Treatment with fish oil resulted in, "measurable clinical benefit". They suggested fish oil could also be working by a beneficial effect on cytokines, by scavenging free radicals, and by increasing intestinal mucosal surface area. Additionally, they noted that fish oil is used as a treatment for a variety of chronic inflammatory disorders (NEJM 1996;334:1557-1560).

Brain/Visual Development

Artificial baby formulas, unlike human milk, do not contain any long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA’s). Arachidonic acid, along with some of the longer chain PUFA's, is an essential requirement for proper brain function, especially in the fetus. The PUFA’s found in fish oil, such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), are an example of very long chain PUFA’s. Their high degree of unsaturation is needed for membrane fluidity and are very important for the brain development of a child.

Immune System

Fish oil may very well have an important role to play in reducing the incidence of autoimmune diseases, because it can inhibit the inappropriate expression of certain molecules on the cell surface that are involved with initiating autoimmune disease (MHC class II).

Suggested Dosage

1-3 grams three times daily or as directed by your healthcare professional.

Contraindications/Toxicology

Since fish oil does thin the blood, large doses may increase risk of stroke from hemorrhaging. Fish oil has been used in combination with anticoagulant therapy, however, caution should be employed when larger doses are used. Medicinal amounts of any vitamin, mineral or specialty nutrient should only be taken with the advice of a trained licensed healthcare professional. If biliary colic (digestive upset) is present, check gallbladder function.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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