Research and the role of omega-3 fatty acids in growth, development and in health and disease has expanded over the past 15 years. In the 1950’s the emphasis was on vegetable oils and their high cholesterol effects whereas today the important functions of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentanoic (EPA) from fish oils or fish in hardening of the arteries, inflammation, blood clot formation and cancer are being investigated.

Diets today are high in omega-6 fatty acids because of the increased production of oils from oil seeds such as corn, safflower, cottonseed, and other vegetable oils for cooking. Over the past 40 years, there has been an increase in hydrogenated oils. Hydrogenated oils increase cholesterol and lower HDL (good lipids). The increase in consumption of saturated fats from animal sources and hydrogenated vegetable oils has led to a drastic reduction in EPA intake. Today the ratio of omega 6 to omega 3’s is 35:1. This number has changed drastically over the years-it used to be 1:1!

Numerous studies involving animals and humans indicate ingestion of fish or fish oils lowered blood lipid levels. They also show populations with a high consumption of fish, such as Eskimos and Japanese have lower rates of heart disease and may in fact prevent atherosclerosis. Studies in 1983 show EPA have a positive effect on arthritis, psoriasis, ulcerative colitis (including constipation), lupus and asthma. Therefore, regular ingestion of EPA should have a beneficial effect on numerous disease states, which include inflammatory and autoimmune condition, ulcerative colitis, heart disease and even cancer. New research has found promising benefits for brain disorders such as Dementia, Alzheimers and ADHD.

Get started on your journey to optimum health and start taking Omega fish oil today!