There are some highly concentrated varieties that provide as much as 800mg of omega3s per 1000mg capsule. But, a recent study showed that there are some extra anti-inflammatory benefits to the natural triglycerides, which have a lower concentration.

Researchers compared the anti-inflammatory activity of two different supplements. One contained 800mg of omega3 fatty acids in the concentrated ester form that most manufacturers use. The other one contained only 500mg of the ester and 500mg of the natural triglyceride. The omega3 content was lower, providing only 500mg total, but the anti-inflammatory activity was higher, twice that of the concentrated ester.

So, basically, your best fish oil dosage is 1000mg total, 500 of a concentrated ester and 500 of natural triglycerides. Total omega3 content would be 500mg and total content of DHA would be at least 260mg.

DHA is the most studied of all of the omega3 fatty acids. It is abundant in brain cells and nerve endings. It accounts for 60% of the free fatty acids in the retina of the eye, the light gathering apparatus that transmits signals to the brain, allowing us to see.

DHA and another important omega3 called EPA have a significant impact on unhealthy blood triglyceride levels. They improve the concentration of “good” HDL cholesterol, which in turn reduces the negative effects of LDL or bad cholesterol.

A good fish oil dosage may help reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack, stroke and blood clots. It has anti-coagulant activity, similar to that of aspirin, and helps lower blood pressure.

The benefits to the digestive system and the joints have been recognized for hundreds of years. Nordic fisherman took a dose every day, to reduce the negative impact that the cold had on their joints.

Recent studies have shown that there is benefit for people that suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, eczema, psoriasis, acne and lupus.

A good fish oil dosage may help improve your mood, reduce depressive feelings and improve your ability to concentrate. Researchers are evaluating the benefits for people that suffer from Alzheimer’s and have suggested that it may be beneficial for reducing the risk of that degenerative brain disease.

So, there are benefits to the skin, the immune system, the joints, the digestive system, the heart, the brain and basically every cell of the body. But, these benefits may be accompanied by risks, if the supplement is not evaluated for purity.

Manufacturers are not required to test each batch for contaminants, but the better manufacturers do conduct that sort of testing. They are able to prove that their recommended fish oil dosage is free of mercury and other contaminants. Ask for the proof, before you buy.

About the Author: Valerie Rosenbaum knows that the health benefits of fish oil are vast and incredible. But taking the right fish oil dosage is not as straightforward as you think. Low quality fish oils may actually be harmful to your health, because they may contain toxic contaminants. Visit her site TakingFishOil.com to discover the pure, fish oil product she uses and recommends.

This article should help clear up some of that confusion. Think of it is a shopping guide. It should help you find the safest and most effective fish oil supplements on the market. Either the label or the information on the manufacturer’s website should answer these questions.

What is the Omega3 Content?

The typical fish oil supplement contains 1000mg of oil in a gelatin capsule. The percent of omega3s that is present varies greatly, depending upon the species of fish that the oils are derived from and even the season of the year, during which the catch was made.

The manufacturer should list the minimum amount that will be present in each capsule. The better ones provide at least 500mg of omega3 fatty acids per capsule. You need to look at the label carefully, because some manufacturers list the amount that is provided by 2 capsules, a commonly recommended dosage.

What is the DHA Content?

Of all of the omega3s, we know the most about DHA. A fish oil supplement should provide a minimum of 260mg of DHA per capsule or 520mg per daily dose.

Studies have shown that DHA lowers triglycerides more effectively than EPA, the other well known omega3. It has a high degree of anti-inflammatory activity and is the most abundant fatty acid in the brain.

Fish oil supplements that provide a high dose of DHA can help relieve depression, improve ADHD and possibly protect the brain from age-related Alzheimer’s and dementia. Studies concerning that are currently being conducted in Canada.

What Are the Company’s Standards for Purity and Freshness?

A fish oil supplement may contain mercury and cancer-causing PCBs. There are no world-wide regulations concerning the amount of contaminants that may be present in a capsule. The better companies voluntarily adhere to the standards set by the Council for Responsible Nutrition, the International Fish Oil Standards or their own higher standards.

Manufacturers that adhere to the highest standards have their each batch of fish oil supplements tested for impurities and publish that information on their websites. Freshness can be measured by measuring the amount of oxidation that has occurred. Oils with a high degree of oxidation will cause fishy tasting burps and increase your intake of free radicals, a cause of cellular aging.

What is the Anti-inflammatory Activity?

A fish oil supplement that contains a combination of natural triglycerides and concentrated esters has more anti-inflammatory activity, according to recent studies. So, if you are hoping to reduce pain and stiffness in your joints or simply reduce the effects that chronic inflammation has on the cells of our bodies, you want to look for that winning combination.

The best fish oil supplements provide numerous health benefits to the heart, brain and all of the systems of the body. Now, you know how to do your comparative shopping.

About the Author: Valerie Rosenbaum knows that the benefits of fish oil are vast and incredible. But not all fish oil supplements are safe. Low quality fish oils may actually be harmful to your health, because they may contain toxic contaminants. Visit her site TakingFishOil.com to discover the pure, fish oil product she uses and recommends.

DHA is a 22 carbon bond long chained essential fatty acid. It is essential for the growth and functional development of the brain in infants and is required for maintenance of normal brain function in adults. Low levels of DHA in the bloodstream have been associated with conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, depression and aggressive behavior.

Increased intake of DHA has been shown to improve learning ability, ability to concentrate and reduces feelings of depression. Studies concerning the benefit for protecting the brain from the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease are currently ongoing. Alzheimer’s is a degenerative disease of the brain that causes memory loss, dementia and eventually kills.

DHA omega3 fish oil has a positive effect on diseases such as hypertension (high blood pressure), arthritis, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), type II or adult-onset diabetes and some types of cancer. It reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke and blood clots.

DHA has good anti-inflammatory activity and helps to modulate immune system function. There are benefits for people that suffer from eczema, psoriasis, acne, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel diseases and any condition in which inflammation plays a role. Since inflammation is one of the causes of cellular aging, you might say that DHA-rich omega3 fish oil has anti-aging activity.

Both DHA and EPA have proven benefits for improving levels of HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering total triglyceride levels. One study compared the benefits of DHA to that of EPA. The DHA group had a 26% decrease in blood triglycerides while the EPA group showed a decrease of 21%.

The human body can easily convert DHA to EPA, by removing two carbon bonds. The reverse is not true. In order to convert from EPA to DHA, the body would need to “add” two carbon bonds. That is not easily accomplished.

DPA is a lesser known omega3, although research is being conducted. Currently, we believe that it contributes to overall cardiovascular health, because it is present in high quantities in seal oil, a favored food of native Inuit peoples, who have a low incidence of cardiovascular disease, despite a diet high in fat.

Once you verify that the omega3 fish oil you are about to buy contains all of the essential fatty acids, find out what steps the manufacturer takes to insure purity and freshness. Molecular distillation is a popular choice, but it may also reduce the anti-inflammatory activity. Some recent evidence indicates that.

Some oils are naturally free of contaminants like mercury and PCBs. The manufacturer can verify that and prove it to consumers by posting an independent laboratory analysis on the company website.

With the popularity of omega3 fish oil as a dietary supplement, there has been an influx of new brand names. Your best bet is to buy online. The department store brands simply cannot be trusted.

About the Author: Valerie Rosenbaum knows that the health benefits of taking fish oil are vast and incredible. But not all omega3 fish oil is safe. Low quality fish oils may actually be harmful to your health, because they may contain toxic contaminants. Visit her site TakingFishOil.com to discover the pure, fish oil product she uses and recommends.

Doctors and researchers suggest that women of child bearing age, especially those that are planning to become pregnant, should strive to meet optimal nutritional levels on a daily basis. Some of the most important nutrients, in terms of having a healthy baby are folic acid and omega-3 fatty acids. Of particular importance is an omega-3 called Docosahexaenoic acid or DHA.

Folic acid (B9) deficiencies, particularly during the first 28 days after conception, cause neural tube defects like spina bifida and can cause mental retardation. DHA deficiency has been associated with learning and behavioral problems, such as attention deficit disorders. Omega-3 deficiencies in general are associated with pre-term births and postpartum depression.

If mom is not getting enough DHA in her diet, the body will pull it from every source in order to get it to the baby. That’s why taking fish oil for women is so important to her sustained mental health. One of the largest storage facilities for DHA is the brain. If she’s not getting enough in her diet, the body will break down brain cells in order to get the nutrient to the developing fetus.

Unlike other omega-3 fatty acids, DHA is only found in fatty fish and some types of marine algae. There are no other dietary sources, excepted for fortified foods. Eating a lot of fish is not always appealing to the taste buds and keeping track of which species are mercury-free and which are health hazards can be difficult.

So, that’s why healthcare professionals recommend mercury-free fish oil for women that plan to become pregnant and for those that are currently pregnant or nursing. For older women and those that are not planning a pregnancy, the supplements provide relief from PMS, menopausal symptoms and inflammatory conditions. Regular supplementation may reduce the risk of breast cancer and heart disease.

Low levels of DHA are associated with all types of depressive disorders. The symptoms of PMS and menopause vary greatly from one woman to the next, but depression or moodiness is fairly common. Cramping and lower back ache are other PMS symptoms that may be relieved.

When it comes to inflammatory conditions, the benefits of fish oil for women are the same as those for men. In arthritis and inflammatory bowel the supplement relieves pain. The reduced risk of heart disease is well recognized and a woman’s risk of heart disease increases during menopause.

There is another benefit, too that has to do with looking more youthful. Researchers have seen a 10% improvement in the skin’s firmness after three months of oral supplementation.

Of course, all supplements are not the same. It is important to compare purity and omega-3 content. Not all supplements provide the 200mg of DHA that has been recommended by researchers. But, as long as you find a good brand, there are numerous benefits of fish oil for women and no risks.

Valerie Rosenbaum thinks taking omega 3 fish oil supplements is the easiest and most effective way to improve your health. Visit her site now to discover the pure, fish oil product she uses and recommends: http://www.TakingFishOil.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Valerie_Rosenbaum
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We know that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential, meaning that the human body needs them, but cannot produce them. They must be consumed through diet. From examining dietary trends, we know that most people in industrialized nations get lots of omega-6s in their diet, but very little omega-3s.

At one time, grass fed beef and free range poultry contained some omega-3 fat. But, the switch to feeding them grain, primarily corn, has meant that omega-3s are no longer present in beef and poultry. Omega-3 fortified eggs have been introduced, but taste is a problem, as is cost. The only good dietary source of omega-3s is fish like salmon, but there is a major concern about eating too much fish, because of mercury contamination.

The primary reason for recommending fish oil for pregnant women is to supplement dietary omega-3 intake. Low intake can result in health problems for mom and for baby. Of most importance is a specific omega-3 called Docosahexaenoic acid or DHA. The only dietary sources of DHA are fish and fish oils.

DHA is essential for normal brain development and function. The omega-3s found in plants and vegetables, such as flaxseed, walnuts and olives are called alpha-lipoic acid or ALA. If conditions are ideal, the body can convert some ALA to DHA, but research has shown that the converted amount will only be ½ to 1%.

The recommended daily intake of fish oil during pregnancy is 900-1000mg, of which at least 200mg should be DHA. Assuming that 1% of ALA would be converted to DHA, a woman would need to take in 20,000mg or 20grams of ALA per day.

You must remember that these supplements are fat. Adding one gram of mostly omega-3 fat to the diet is fine, only equivalent to 9 calories. Adding 20grams of fat to the diet is equivalent to 180 calories. In order to not go overboard on fat, the woman’s diet would need to be very lean. It’s an unreasonable expectation. That’s the reason for recommending fish oil for pregnant women, rather than flaxseed oil.

Years ago, when research showed that breast fed babies had healthier immune system, better vision and higher IQs, the reason was unclear. Today, researchers are relatively sure that DHA is the reason. It’s found in breast milk, but not in cow’s milk. It was only recently added to infant formulas.

If mom doesn’t get enough in her diet, the body will break down brain cells to get at the DHA stored in them. That may be one of the causes of post-partum depression. New research indicates that recommending fish oil for pregnant women could help reduce their risks of various complications and increase their chances of having a healthy, happy baby. She just needs to be sure to choose a high quality supplement and talk to her doctor.

Valerie Rosenbaum thinks taking omega 3 fish oil supplements is the easiest and most effective way to improve your health. Visit her site now to discover the pure, fish oil product she uses and recommends: http://www.TakingFishOil.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Valerie_Rosenbaum
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It is not that much different from other healthy diets. Forty percent of the calories come from carbohydrates, 30% from protein and 30% from fats, mostly good fats like the omega-3s found in olive oil and oily fish.

Dr Sears, as he is called, has his own brand of extra virgin olive oil, too, which costs $19.95 for a 16 ounce bottle. You can get the same quality for less. A big part of the price has to do with the name. Advertising and marketing drives prices up.

When it comes to the price of Zone fish oil, it is one of the more expensive brands at $25.95 per bottle, but it’s not the most expensive. Iceland Health Max currently holds that title at nearly $50 per bottle. Each of those brands provides the same percentage of DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid). About 20% of the fat in the supplements is DHA. Other brands provide as much as 28% or 280mg per 1000mg capsule.

DHA can be readily converted within the body to EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) or other shorter-chained fatty acids. Converting the shorter ones to DHA, which has the longest chain of carbon bonds, is much harder for the body to do.

Research indicates that 10% of the DHA in a supplement will automatically be converted to EPA. Since, DHA is most important to the brain and has the greatest effect on high triglycerides in the bloodstream; it just makes sense to look for a supplement that provides the most DHA.

Since, Zone fish oil does not provide the highest quantity of DHA and the cost per bottle is higher than brands that provide more, it’s obviously not your best buy. It really pays to do some comparative shopping. You don’t want the cheapest brands, because they are of questionable quality. But, you do want the best value for your money. Or, at least, most people do.

Other diet doctors have their own brands of supplements, too. They start out with their books and then they branch out. That’s why we have Zone fish oil.

In my mind, it makes sense to buy fish oil supplements from a supplement company. When companies start branching out too much, the quality of the items they produce tends to decline.

The better companies guarantee purity and freshness. They have every batch analyzed for contaminants and oxidation levels. They can guarantee a burp-free supplement, because they know the oxidation levels are very low.

There are many good supplement companies in the world. There are some great ones, too. But, there are just as many disreputable manufacturers. Zone fish oil seems to be a good product, but not the best that money can buy. If you’re like me, you want the best.

Valerie Rosenbaum thinks taking omega 3 fish oil supplements is the easiest and most effective way to improve your health. Visit her site now to discover the pure, fish oil product she uses and recommends: http://www.TakingFishOil.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Valerie_Rosenbaum
http://EzineArticles.com/?Is-Zone-Fish-Oil-the-Best-Omega-3-Supplement-You-Can-Buy?&id=2418048

Human brains are composed primarily of fatty acids. In an adult brain, about 40% of those fatty acids are DHA. In an infant’s brain, about 70% are DHA. If mom does not get enough DHA in her diet, then baby’s brain cannot develop properly. Studies indicate that only 2% of pregnant women get enough DHA every day. Most consume less than 18% of the minimum daily recommendation.

Many doctors and scientists suggest 900-1000mg of fish oil in pregnancy to provide a minimum of 200-300mg of DHA. But, not all fish oils contain that much. If you read the supplement labels, you will see that some manufacturers do not list the amount of DHA that is in each gram of fat. Most supplements contain only about 100mg of DHA per gram.

If you do choose a good supplement that provides a minimum of 200mg per capsule, the health benefits include a reduced risk of preeclampsia and premature birth and a significantly reduced risk of postpartum depression. Research has shown that omega-3 supplementation is beneficial for relieving symptoms of depression in pregnant and non-pregnant people. Some researchers believe that the increased incidence of depression that is seen in today’s society is due largely to a lack of omega-3s in the diet.

Other benefits of fish oil in pregnancy have to do with the baby’s immune system. Allergies and asthma are conditions related to improper immune system responses to stimuli. Inflammation occurs when there is no need for it. Research has shown that there is a lower incidence of allergies and asthma among children whose mothers met their requirements for omega-3s while they were pregnant and continued to do so during breast feeding.

In adults, omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to support healthy immune system function by modulating inflammation. In the body, they are converted to less inflammatory molecules than their cousins, the omega-6s. They have also been shown to stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory molecules.

Taking fish oil in pregnancy is only beneficial if the supplement is free of mercury and other toxins. Find out what standards the manufacturer has set for contaminant content. The information will typically be listed on their website.

If you are vegan or vegetarian and decide to go with an omega-3 supplement from a vegetable source, you should know that the only ones that provide DHA are derived certain types of marine algae. Flaxseed supplements do not provide DHA.

Talk to your doctor about taking fish oil in pregnancy and then choose the healthiest supplements. It is one of the best things that you can do for your health and for your baby.

Valerie Rosenbaum thinks taking omega 3 fish oil supplements is the easiest and most effective way to improve your health. Visit her site now to discover the pure, fish oil product she uses and recommends: http://www.TakingFishOil.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Valerie_Rosenbaum
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Benefits-of-Omega-3-Fish-Oil-in-Pregnancy&id=2470321

There are some highly concentrated varieties that provide as much as 800mg of omega3s per 1000mg capsule. But, a recent study showed that there are some extra anti-inflammatory benefits to the natural triglycerides, which have a lower concentration.

Researchers compared the anti-inflammatory activity of two different supplements. One contained 800mg of omega3 fatty acids in the concentrated ester form that most manufacturers use. The other one contained only 500mg of the ester and 500mg of the natural triglyceride. The omega3 content was lower, providing only 500mg total, but the anti-inflammatory activity was higher, twice that of the concentrated ester.

So, basically, your best fish oil dosage is 1000mg total, 500 of a concentrated ester and 500 of natural triglycerides. Total omega3 content would be 500mg and total content of DHA would be at least 260mg.

DHA is the most studied of all of the omega3 fatty acids. It is abundant in brain cells and nerve endings. It accounts for 60% of the free fatty acids in the retina of the eye, the light gathering apparatus that transmits signals to the brain, allowing us to see.

DHA and another important omega3 called EPA have a significant impact on unhealthy blood triglyceride levels. They improve the concentration of “good” HDL cholesterol, which in turn reduces the negative effects of LDL or bad cholesterol.

A good fish oil dosage may help reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack, stroke and blood clots. It has anti-coagulant activity, similar to that of aspirin, and helps lower blood pressure.

The benefits to the digestive system and the joints have been recognized for hundreds of years. Nordic fisherman took a dose every day, to reduce the negative impact that the cold had on their joints.

Recent studies have shown that there is benefit for people that suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, eczema, psoriasis, acne and lupus.

A good fish oil dosage may help improve your mood, reduce depressive feelings and improve your ability to concentrate. Researchers are evaluating the benefits for people that suffer from Alzheimer’s and have suggested that it may be beneficial for reducing the risk of that degenerative brain disease.

So, there are benefits to the skin, the immune system, the joints, the digestive system, the heart, the brain and basically every cell of the body. But, these benefits may be accompanied by risks, if the supplement is not evaluated for purity.

Manufacturers are not required to test each batch for contaminants, but the better manufacturers do conduct that sort of testing. They are able to prove that their recommended fish oil dosage is free of mercury and other contaminants. Ask for the proof, before you buy.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/are-you-taking-the-right-fish-oil-dosage-for-your-particular-health-condition-939636.html

About the Author:
Valerie Rosenbaum knows that the health benefits of fish oil are vast and incredible. But taking the right fish oil dosage is not as straightforward as you think. Low quality fish oils may actually be harmful to your health, because they may contain toxic contaminants. Visit her site TakingFishOil.com to discover the pure, fish oil product she uses and recommends.

With recent research from Australia showing improved eye-hand coordination, better comprehension and improved vocabulary if the mother takes fish oil in pregnancy, it proves beyond a doubt the value of this precious oil.

It has long been advised from women in pregnancy to take a daily omega 3 supplement with even the EU advising at least 200mg of the DHA omega 3 to be taken.

It has always been known that omega 3 helps the baby’s brain development, leading to a higher IQ and less behavioural problems later on.

When you add the fact that over 85% of pregnant women and people in general are deficient in it as we cannot make it ourselves and it is estimated to save thousands of lives each year through its anti-inflammatory properties helping to prevent heart attacks and strokes, the value of fish oil in pregnancy cannot be understated.

Very careful selection should be made when choosing a supplement as you must ensure it has been molecularly distilled to remove the toxins like mercury and lead to make it safe.

In addition, a high level of DHA, at least 250mg per capsule is required to enable mother and baby to enjoy the full benefits. Check out the website or the label to see the individual amounts of DHA and the other main but less important one, EPA.

Currently the highest quality and purest in the world comes from New Zealand. The Hoki fish used to make the oil are naturally rich in DHA and exceptionally low in contaminants, making them an ideal choice.

The pristine Southern Ocean where they come from is sustainably fished and said to be one of the cleanest waters left on earth.

Whichever fish oil in pregnancy you take, if you follow these guidelines you will end up with a high quality oil that is also completely safe enabling you and your baby to enjoy all the many benefits without any of the risk.

If you would like to learn more about the high quality DHA omega 3 supplements I personally take daily, visit my website today.

Discover the best omega-3 fish oil today.

Rich Hawkins is a dedicated researcher of nutrition, diet and the amazing health benefits of high-quality fish oil. Discover the very latest and effective omega-3 fish oil supplements Rich recommends after extensive research.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/how-using-fish-oil-in-pregnancy-can-help-your-babys-development-982116.html

A newborn baby’s brain and nervous system is made up of approximately 70% omega 3 fats, the very same we get from oily fish and indeed over 30% of an adult brain is composed of DHA omega 3.

The tremendous impact on fetal development leads to a higher IQ, better hand-eye coordination, less behavioural problems and improved sleep patterns. In addition studies just out from Australia also show improved comprehension and better use of vocabulary.

This is the reason that a supplement is so popular amongst children with autism and ADHD, helping to improve attention span and general understanding.

The tremendous benefits to the mother include a healthier pregnancy, a greatly reduced risk of premature birth and a lowered risk of post natal depression, showing how these omega 3 fish oils are not just good for fetal development.

To select a quality oil it is vital to only use pharmaceutical grade that has been molecularly distilled to remove all the toxins like mercury and leave you with only safe and pure oil. Many products have not undergone this and can contain these harmful toxins so check the label or website carefully.

Look for one high in the DHA omega 3, at least twice the amount of the other important one, EPA. Around 250mg of DHA per capsule will be sufficient to provide you with all of these benefits.

In closing, there has never been a more effective and natural way to protect both mother and baby and help improve fetal development than by taking a daily supplement.

If you would like to learn more about the high quality DHA omega 3 supplements I personally take daily, visit my website today.

Discover the best omega-3 fish oil today.

Rich Hawkins is a dedicated researcher of nutrition, diet and the amazing health benefits of high-quality fish oil. Discover the very latest and effective omega-3 fish oil supplements Rich recommends after extensive research.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/fetal-development-and-how-taking-a-quality-fish-oil-supplement-can-significantly-improve-it-979813.html