Many studies have shown that omega-3 can improve health and help prevent heart disease. For instance, getting enough omega-3 in our diet may result in general heart benefits, lowering triglycerides and improving brain function. I believe that most health professionals would agree that the best way to get omega-3 in our diet would be eating fish rich in this fatty acid, twice a week. Some of the best sources are mackerel, tuna and the ever popular salmon. However, Im sure that most of us have read that there are conflicting reports on farmed salmon verses fresh water salmon. Then there are the reports of high mercury levels in tuna and other fish that appear to be the best sources of omega-3. With all of this conflicting information, what do we do? Some of my friends and I have been discussing this lately. We all want to be healthy but some just plain cannot stomach the idea of eating fish, even if it is only twice a week. These friends have discovered omega-3 pills. For them, this seems to be the solution. So, I did a little research. All omega-3 capsules are not created equal. Omega-3 capsules that are not molecularly distilled can contain high levels of contaminants. How do we know which are molecularly distilled and which are not? It should be labeled on the bottle or we can ask the manufacturer. When we read an article about the latest and best in maintaining our health, we may want to proceed cautiously until all of the facts are in. Personally, I love salmon and tuna. While studies have shown that there is mercury in some fish, we would have to consume a large amount of fish on a weekly basis or be pregnant for this to be a problem. Once again, balance in our eating habits as well as our lifestyle appears to be the solution. |
