It’s easy to know that you should be getting enough Omega-3, but harder to remember what it actually does. Keep reading for a little refresher on the benefits of Omega-3, plus discover common side effects of fish oil supplements and our tips for overcoming these challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned health enthusiast or just beginning your wellness journey, join us as we uncover the transformative potential of Omega-3s and provide practical insights to optimize your supplementation experience.
What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?
Omega-3 fatty acids encompass several types, with the most notable ones being eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These fatty acids are primarily obtained through dietary sources such as fatty fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel, sardines), flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, certain vegetable oils, and of course, supplements.
Key Health Benefits of Omega-3s
Omega-3 fatty acids offer a myriad of health benefits, making them indispensable for optimal functioning of the body. Some of the key advantages include:
- Cardiovascular Health: EPA and DHA have been extensively studied for their ability to promote heart health by reducing triglyceride levels, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing the risk of heart disease and stroke (1).
- Cognitive Function: DHA, in particular, is a major structural component of the brain and plays a vital role in cognitive function, memory, and mood regulation (2). Adequate intake of Omega-3s is associated with improved cognitive performance and a reduced risk of age-related cognitive decline.
- Joint Health: Omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (3). EPA and DHA contribute to reducing joint stiffness and enhancing overall joint mobility.
- Eye Health: DHA is also present in high concentrations in the retina of the eye, where it supports visual development and helps maintain optimal eye health throughout life. Adequate intake of Omega-3s may lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration and other eye disorders (4).
- Lung Health: Higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly (DHA), are linked to better respiratory health in individuals with conditions that are accompanied by inflammation in the respiratory tract (5).
Incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids into your diet or through supplementation is essential for reaping these health benefits and promoting overall wellness. As integral components of cell membranes and precursors to signaling molecules that regulate inflammation, Omega-3 fatty acids exert profound effects on various physiological processes, contributing to improved health outcomes and quality of life.
Common Challenges with Omega-3 Supplementation
Even when you know how healthy Omega fish oils are, you might still be hesitant take your Omega-3 capsules daily. Some people are put off by the fishiness of Omega-3 while others are discouraged by mild side effects. Fortunately, there are a few to overcome the challenges of taking fish oil supplements. . .
Omega-3 supplement side-effects:
- Fishy aftertaste or burps: Because Omega-3 supplements contain contain fish oil, it’s normal to experience a fishy aftertaste or fishy burps. Taking a large dosage of Omega-3 on an empty stomach or without proper hydration increases the likelihood of lingering fishiness.
- Gastrointestinal Upset: Fats can trigger symptoms of indigestion (6) and Omega-3 supplements provide fats, ergo Omega-3 supplements can trigger indigestion.
- Diarrhea: One of the common side effects of Omega-3 supplements is increased bowel movements or diarrhea.
- Increased bleeding: Omega-3 has been found to decrease blood clotting and therefore may increase the frequency of nosebleeds or bleeding gums in individuals who are prone to these conditions.
Omega-3 supplement solutions:
- Split your daily dosage – Reducing the amount of fish oil that you consume in 1 sitting can help to reduce the amount of fishiness that you might experience in burps. This is part of why the directions for Omega-3 MD™ suggest taking 1 capsule in the morning and 1 in the evening.
- Freeze your capsules – Freezing the capsules makes them last longer in the digestive system. This means that instead of being broken down in the stomach, where the fish oil can cause burps, the capsules are more likely to be broken down and absorbed in the intestines.
- Stay hydrated – Being dehydrated slows digestion and can cause or increase the nausea and indigestion associated with taking fish oil supplements. For this reason, we recommend always taking Omega-3 MD™ with a full glass of water.
- Ask your doctor about your dosage – Though fatty acids are important for overall health, too much can affect how your blood flows and clots. If you experience increased bleeding or have any other concerns, consult with your doctor.
- Make sure your supplement is high quality – Despite all providing Omega-3, fish oil supplements can be very different from each other. For the best results with the fewest side effects, make sure you’re taking a high-quality Omega-3 supplement.
What Makes Omega-3 MD™ A High-Quality Supplement?
1. The EPA and DHA Concentration: Higher concentrations of EPA and DHA, the two most important Omega-3 fatty acids, typically provide more significant health benefits. Omega-3 MD™ provides 900 mg EPA and 600 mg DHA.
2. Purity and Quality: Omega-3 MD™ undergoes rigorous purification processes to remove contaminants such as mercury and other harmful substances. Omega-3 MD™ has been third-party tested and manufactured in a FDA-certified, GMP-compliant facility to ensure purity and quality.
3. Source of Omega-3: The fatty acid profile of Omega-3 MD™ is sourced from wild caught mackerels, anchovies, and sardines. Our Krill Oil supplement is also a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids that is sourced from wild Antarctic krill.
4. Sustainability: Our Omega-3 supplements are sourced from sustainable and responsibly harvested sources Friend of the Sea certified.
5. Price and Value: While price is a consideration, we prioritize value and quality when crafting our Omega-3 supplements and offer better purity, concentration, and bioavailability than many other Omega-3 supplements available. To make our products more affordable, we offer savings when you buy a package deals and also make exclusive discounts available to our email subscribers and blog readers.
Additional Omega-3 FAQs
What are the dietary sources of Omega-3 fatty acids?
Omega-3 fatty acids are commonly found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, krill, and trout. Plant-based sources include flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and hemp seeds. Additionally, some fortified foods and supplements contain Omega-3 fatty acids.
Who can benefit from taking Omega-3 supplements?
Omega-3 supplements can benefit individuals of all ages, but they may be particularly beneficial for those who do not consume enough Omega-3-rich foods in their diet, individuals with cardiovascular risk factors, pregnant and breastfeeding women, children for healthy brain development, and people with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.
How long does it take to see results from taking Omega-3 supplements?
The time it takes to experience the benefits of Omega-3 supplements may vary depending on individual factors such as diet, lifestyle, health status, and dosage. Some people may notice improvements in symptoms such as joint pain, mood, or triglyceride levels within a few weeks, while others may require longer-term supplementation to see noticeable changes. Consistency and adherence to recommended dosages are key factors in achieving optimal results.
What if Omega-3 MD™ provides more Omega-3 than my doctor recommends?
If your supplement needs are smaller than our recommended dosage, ask your doctor if taking 1 capsule a day instead of 2 is right for you. With our daily 2 capsule dosage, it’s easy to adjust your intake based on your needs. Alternatively, talk with your doctor about our Krill Oil supplement which provides a smaller serving of fatty acids and is a natural source of the powerful antioxidant Astaxanthin.
Conclusion
As you embark on your journey to enhance your health with Omega-3 supplementation, remember that knowledge and quality are your greatest allies. With the insights gained from this guide, you’re equipped to make informed decisions about your Omega-3 regimen, ensuring you harness the full spectrum of benefits they offer. From overcoming common challenges to selecting high-quality supplements like Omega-3 MD™, your commitment to wellness sets the stage for a vibrant, energized life. Embrace the power of Omega-3s and unlock a pathway to enhanced vitality and well-being.
