The Low Down on Omega 3s

 

There is a great imbalance of omega 6s to 3s in the American diet (see the movie "King Corn" to understand one of the major reasons why, noting that corn is high in omega 6s.) There are plant forms of omega 3s (ALA- i.e. flax, chia, etc.), which our bodies convert into EPA and finally into DHA. (33% of the central nervous system is composed of DHA.) Some people don't get enough ALA in the first place, or their body has a hard time converting ALA to EPA/DHA. Animals have the same conversion process. That's where fish oil, omega 3 eggs, grass fed beef, etc. comes in. So, understand that ALA, EPA, and DHA are all forms of omega 3, but EPA and DHA are concentrated forms of omega 3. 

• If you eat Vegan (aka "Plant-Based"): Evidence shows that vegetarians have a higher conversion process of ALA to EPA and DHA, so it's possible you don't even need a supplement if you're a vegetarian or vegan.  But if you'd like you can order Algae pills from Dr. Nedley's, and I imagine you can find quality algae pills elsewhere.

There are NUMEROUS conditions that studies have shown will respond positively to Omega 3 supplementation, including depression, ADHD, Alzheimer's Disease, arthritis, autism, back pain, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, cancer prevention, high blood pressure, Crohn's disease, cardiovascular conditions, high cholesterol, dyslexia, dyspraxia, etc. etc. etc. [One of the underlying reasons so many conditions are helped by Omega 3 supplementation is because Omega 6s are involved with the inflammatory response, where Omega 3s are involved with the anti-inflammatory response. Ingestion of too much Omega 6s is wreaking inflammatory havoc in so many people!]

Two final things: 1- understanding the underlying cause of the Omega 3/6 imbalance in our diets can help you make dietary choices that ultimately bring your body back into balance, this is much more important to your health than just taking an Omega 3 supplement!  2- If you do take Omega 3 supplements,  I suggest you educate yourself so you really are getting benefit from the supplement.