A great deal of research has been conducted on the powerful effects of omega-3 fatty acids. A slew of studies have shown that omega-3s have positive effects on mood, aggression, mental health, and even cognitive performance and dementia. They are also very good for your heart health. Unfortunately, omega-3s are virtually absent from the modern diet in the United States and many other western countries. Thus, it’s an excellent idea to take a supplement, either in the form of fish oil or flax/evening primrose oil.
Both are beneficial, but the evidence points to the possibility that fish oil may be the best source. If you do buy fish oil, make sure it is not contaminated with mercury or any other heavy metals. To check on a brand, go to this site, sponsored by the Environmental Defense Fund:
http://www.edf.org/page.cfm?tagID=1653
The best brand I’ve found is Nordic Naturals, though many others are good as well.
If you’re vegetarian or simply don’t want to take fish oil, try the vegetarian plant oils, best in combination. One excellent brand is Udo’s, which is a tasty combination of organic flax, sesame, sunflower, and evening primrose oils.
Both fish and vegetable oils come in either liquid or gel cap form. The fish oil can be quite strong, so the gel caps are your best bet, but the vegetable oil can be taken either way (you can even include it in your salad dressing).
For more reading on the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids, see research by Stoll et al., 1999; Bourre, 2005; Parker et al., 2006; Hu et al., 2002.
Tags: health, mental health, mood, nutrition, omega-3, supplement
July 6, 2008 at 5:51 am |
I’ve learned that many people are using Omega-3 fish oil gelcaps as a nutritional supplement for optimal mood, eye, brain, and joint function. I’ve used the brand Ultramarine Omega-3 Virgin Salmon Oil gelcaps and found them to benefit me on many levels. I know that the company Nu-Gen Nutrition at http://www.nu-gen.com sells the Ultramarine Omega-3 gelcaps.