The Many Benefits of Fish Oil

Friday 25th September 2009 10:30am

fish oil capsulesFish Oil is a rich source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids.

What are the benefits of Fish Oil?

Fish Oil has many benefits.  Research indicates that it is beneficial in some cases of depression, may improve rheumatoid arthritis, may boost immune function and may reduce the risk of heart attack.  This is attributed to the Omega 3 essential fatty acid content contained in the Fish Oil.

What are Omega 3’s?

Omega 3’s come from both plant based sources such as canola and Soya beans but also marine based sources. Fish Oils are the richest source of Omega 3 fatty acids.  These are essential fats necessary for the proper functioning of the body.1

How much Omega 3 do I need?

Including 2-3 meals of fish per week will provide sufficient amounts of Omega 3. Alternatively, 1 capsule three times a day will provide 3000 mg of Fish Oil daily.

How does fish oil benefit people with heart problems?

The Australian diet contains very little Omega 3.  Unlike Australians, the Greenland Eskimo and Japanese diets contain a high amount of fish and therefore Omega 3 and this has been associated with their low rates of heart disease.2

Should I be concerned with the amount of mercury in Fish Oil?

The amount of mercury in Herb Valley’s Omega 3 Fish Oil is less than 0.1mg per kg. This amount is negligible and should not be of concern. 3 All marine life contains some level of mercury as it is impossible to obtain nil amounts of mercury in marine products.

What is the source of Herb Valley Omega 3 Fish Oil?

Herb Valley sources its Omega 3 Fish Oil from Mackerel, Sardines and Anchovies – all of which are deep sea fish high in Omega 3 Fatty acids.

If I am allergic to molluscs, can I consume Herb Valley Fish Oil?

Omega 3 is not derived from sea crustaceans but from deep sea fish, therefore if your allergy is only to seafood containing a shell, Fish Oil is generally acceptable to consume - but check with your Health Care Practitioner if you are unsure.

Refernces

  1. Heart Foundation, Plant sterols, Omega 3 Fats and Heart Disease, www.heartfoundation.org.au
  2. Arthritis Foundation, NSW. Omega-3 and A Health Diet.  www.arthritisnsw.org.au/articles/omega.htm
  3. Food Standards Australia, Mercury in Fish. www.foodstandards.gov.au/mediareleasespublications/factsheets/factsheets2003/mercuryinfish9july202095.cfm a

This information is not intended as a substitute for qualified medical advice. Please consult a properly qualified health care practitioner.