omega-3 Fish Oil - Questions & Answers

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Omega-3 Related:

Q: What is omega-3?
A: Omega-3s are unique fats that are required for human health. They are good-for-you fats that the human body cannot make; we need to get them from food or supplements. Technically they are long chain unsaturated fatty acids. Fatty acids are building blocks used in every cell in your body. From their cellular position, they direct and manage vital body functions, such as inflammation and proper heart, joint, eye, brain and immune function. Flax seed and some plants provide an omega-3 fat (ALA), but seafood, fish and fish oil provide the two most biologically functional omega-3 fats (EPA and DHA). Research shows that most Americans do not consume enough omega-3 and this lack of omega-3 has adverse health consequences. It is evident through research that consuming adequate amounts of omega-3 from fish oil improves health and reduces risk of chronic conditions.

Q: What are EPA and DHA?
A: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are two omega-3 fats found in fish and seafood. Omega-3 fats are essential for our health; we must eat them because the human body cannot make them in the body. ALA is an omega-3 found in flax seed oil. It was once believed that people could build EPA and DHA from ALA, but current research shows that this is not efficient. EPA and DHA have been extensively researched and are known to be beneficial for heart health, flexible joints, the immune system, good mood and mental health. EPA and DHA play important roles in infant development and pregnancy - they are vital for both mom and infant.

Q: What is more important: EPA or DHA?
A: We need both EPA and DHA. They are both important. EPA and DHA occur together in fish oil and are both essential in the diet. EPA is a basic material used to regulate inflammation, hormone balance, immune system functioning, and blood supply to tissues. EPA is uniquely beneficial for the heart and joints. DHA is critical to proper brain and eye function. EPA and DHA work better together. The need for DHA from conception through adulthood is well documented by research. For developing infants, adequate DHA is necessary in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy through the first 2 years of life for the development of healthy brain and nerve cells as well as visual function. Sufficient levels of EPA and DHA are important over the lifespan to keep cell membranes flexible and functional.

Q: What is the difference between the omega-3 in flaxseed oil, and the omega-3 in fish oil?
A: The omega-3s found in flaxseed oil are short-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (Alpha Linoleic Acid - ALA). In order to get the health benefit from these short-chain omega-3s, the body must convert them biochemically to long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (EPA and DHA). Unfortunately, the conversion process is inefficient, and so, much of the benefit is lost. Therefore, it is more practical to consume fish oil supplements, which already contain the long-chain omega-3s you need.

Q: Why should I take omega-3 supplements?
A: omega-3s fats are essential for numerous aspects of health and wellness. They can only be obtained from the food and supplements we consume - our bodies do not produce them like some other nutrients. The Western (American) diet is very low in omega-3s, and this deficiency is one of the reasons why we have such high rates of heart disease, cancer and degenerative diseases. Therefore, to avoid the deficiency that leads to these serious health conditions, it is necessary to supplement your dietary intake of omega-3.

Q: I have heard of the benefits of omega-3, but I have also heard that I should avoid fat.
A: There is a great deal of confusion about this point. The fats to minimize in your diet are trans-fats and saturated-fats. In general, a diet balanced among fat, protein and carbohydrates is still best. omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids, and although they are a part of the broader family of fats, they are essential for optimal brain, cardiovascular, skin, bone and joint health.

Q: If I have had my gallbladder removed, will I still be able to digest omega-3s?
A: The gallbladder is involved with bile function and aids the digestion of all fat in the diet (saturated animal fat, trans fat, etc). Having this organ removed has become a fairly common procedure, and people still digest and absorb fat from the diet without it. Some people choose to take fat-digestive enzymes. One does not need a gallbladder to digest and absorb omega-3 fats.

Q: How can you recommend omega-3 to me without knowing the details of my medical history?
A: We can recommend omega-3 to you because omega-3 fats are a type of fat that is considered ‘essential’ for humans. People need to get omega-3s from their diet or supplements, just like we need calcium and vitamin C. The next question is how much omega-3 do you need, and to answer that, it’s best to know your medical history. Every body needs some omega-3 and depending on your health status and lifestyle, some people benefit from more. The minimum recommended amount for adults today is 650 mg EPA and DHA per day.

Q: What can you tell me about omega-3 / omega-6 balance?
A: Originally, people consumed omega-3 fats (found in fish and flax oil) and omega-6 fats (found in vegetable oils, meat and dairy foods) in a ratio between 1:1 or 1:4. Over the last 100 years, there have been 2 big shifts in our diet: 1) we are eating an abundance of omega-6 fats and 2) we are eating very few omega-3 fats. Omega-6 and omega-3s work in tandem in the body. Currently, we eat roughly 16 to 20 times more omega-6s thn omega-3s, which has created an unhealthy balance. This has resulted in more inflammation in our bodies.

Q: Is omega-3 safe for everybody?
A: Yes. Simply put, omega-3s are the “good” fats. They support health and vitality, and the reason we need to include omega-3s in our diet is because as human beings, we cannot make them.

Product Related:

Q: How will I know that omega-3 is working for me?
A: If you have a health condition with outward symptoms, like psoriasis, you should notice improvements within weeks. Longer term use usually yields noticeable improvements in mood, joints, sleep and mental acuity. If you are at risk for internal health conditions, like cardiovascular disease, you should discuss your blood work with your doctor to understand the benefits of omega-3.

Q: Can there be any side effects from taking omega-3 supplements?
A: In general, the answer is no. PharmaOmega omega-3 supplements provide dietary essential fats, nutrients your body needs daily. It is advised that people taking blood thinning medications be under doctors’ care when taking more than 3 grams of omega-3.

Q: Is it safe for children to take omega-3?
A: It is perfectly safe for children to take omega-3, and it will benefit them developmentally. In general, dosage for children should be approximately 300 mg per day.

Q: If I'm allergic to fish, is it safe for me to take omega-3s derived from fish oil?
A: To be absolutely safe, it is best if you get your omega-3 from plant sources, such as flax seed oil. However, if you prefer fish oil supplements, you should consult your physician about possible allergic reactions.

Q: Can I take omega-3 with other vitamins? Should I be concerned about interactions?
A: Depending on your age, body type and wellness goals, it is ideal for you to take omega-3 as a part of a broader dietary and supplementation regimen. Nutritional deficiencies of any kind can lead to serious health conditions over time, so anything that you can do to avoid these deficiencies will greatly improve your health and wellness. In general, we recommend a quality multivitamin and antioxidant in conjunction with your omega-3 supplements. And it is always best to keep your physician informed of your dietary regimen.

Q: Are your products certified?
A: We are one of very few consumer product companies that are members of GOED – see Global Organization for Epa and Dha. We subscribe to GOED’s monograph which sets the highest standards for US omega-3s and is voluntary and far above any mandatory US standards. Our products are all tested by third party laboratories for impurities such as heavy metals, dioxins, furans and PCBs, oxidation, and concentration and achieve results that are far better than the GOED standards. Perhaps most convincing is that our founders have six young children between them who take our products every day.

Q: Fish oil has caused me to have an upset stomach in the past. Is there anything that I can do to avoid that?
A: Lower quality products that have not been purified and distilled can often cause an upset stomach, as well as capsules that have spoiled. If you see cloudy deposits in the oil inside your capsules, that often means that they are rancid and should not be taken. We have launched PharmaOmega Life with Mint flavor for those people who have had stomach issues with fish oil in the past. They report a very high satisfaction rate with Mint flavored Life, with no gastrointestinal side effects.

Q: How much omega-3 is too much to take in one day?
A: Studies have been conducted on high-dose omega-3 supplementation wherein the subjects took 6 grams a day, or more, with no negative side effects. Therefore, high omega-3 intake does have benefits, and is generally safe. Your stomach will tell you if you are taking too much omega-3, as you might experience mild gastrointestinal upset. If that happens, gradually reduce the amount taken until the upset goes away, and you will have discovered your optimal dosage. You can also refer to our Suggested Usage Guide.

Q: Is your product approved by the FDA?
A: Dietary supplements, like PharmaOmega Life, do not require FDA Approval. They are governed under a different set of regulations called DSHEA (The Dietary Supplement Health & Education Act). PharmaOmega Life is fully compliant with all elements of DSHEA. Further, we take safety and quality very seriously, and so our products have been ultra-purified and molecularly distilled. They have been tested by third parties, and have been confirmed to far exceed all U.S. and European standards for quality.

Q: Do your products have enteric coating?
A: Enteric coating is used to aid in the digestion of capsules. With omega-3 fish oil supplements, digestive problems typically occur because a product is of lower quality, or because it has gone bad. For a highly concentrated, ultra-purified and molecularly distilled product like PharmaOmega, enteric coating is not necessary.

Q: How much omega-3 is safe to take?
A: There currently is no upper limit established. This is, in part, because North Americans consume so little omega-3 fat. The priority among nutrition experts is for people to increase their intake of these essential fats. In general, 3 grams of EPA and DHA from fish oil is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Individuals on certain medications (e.g. blood thinning medications) ought to consult with their healthcare practitioner.

Q: How do I tell if my fish oil is spoiled?
A: You can tell if your fish oil is spoiled by checking the date on the package, and/or by tasting the oil. If the fish oil tastes spoiled, it may be. Remember, fish oil comes from fish. It will have a slight fish taste, but better product will taste fresh.

Q: I am allergic to soy. Is it okay for me to take your product?
A: The fish oil and gelatin capsule are not made from soy. The vitamin E added to the fish oil to stabilize (maintain freshness) is derived from highly purified from soybean oil. It’s critical for fish oil to be protected from oxidation, and today, purified vitamin E is the most effective, natural stabilizer available. Our product has less than 2 IU of vitamin E per capsule. People with soybean allergies are usually allergic to the protein constituents of the soybean, and not the oil.

Condition Related:

Q: What are the benefits of taking omega-3?
A: If you are at risk for serious health conditions, omega-3s have numerous benefits. For those who are in good health, omega-3s have been known to have many health benefits, including:

Increased well-being
Improved IQ
Improved problem solving
Improved mental clarity,focus and concentration
Better motor skills
Improved vision
Better hearing
Improved sensory acuity
Increased life expectancy
Improved heart health
Better joint function

Q: For which health conditions is it advisable to take omega-3?
A: omega-3 is essential to human health, so it is always a good idea to decrease the risk of the health conditions or symptoms directly or indirectly associated with omega-3 deficiency. They include, but are not limited to:

Cardiovascular Disease
Atherosclerosis
Psoriasis
Arthritis
Asthma
Raynaud´s Phenomenon
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Cystic Fibrosis
Osteoporosis
Several forms of Cancer
Depression
Dyslexia
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit Disorder
Autism
Thrombosis
High Blood Pressure
Schizophrenia
Cognitive Impairment
Macular Degeneration
Dyspraxia
Coronary Heart Disease
Allergies
Diabetes
Dermatitis
Arrhythmia
Anxiety
Postpartum Depression
Bone Density Disorders
Heart Attack
Fetal Developmental Disorders
Alzheimer´s Disease

Q: I have heard of the benefits of omega-3 for the developing fetus, but I have also heard that I shouldn´t eat fish while I´m pregnant.
A: This is a contradiction that confuses most pregnant women. omega-3s are essential for the optimal development of the fetus. They are especially important for the formation of a healthy brain, eyes and nervous system. Each is made up in large part from the long chain omega-3s and studies have shown that if the mother´s diet does not provide sufficient omega-3, then the formation and function of the fetal organs can be impaired. Oil-rich fish is an excellent source of omega-3, but because of the adverse effects on fetal development of certain toxins frequently found in fish, purified omega-3 supplements are a much safer source.

Q: What is the relationship between omega-3 and relief from joint pain?
A: omega-3 has been known to increase blood-flow, and concurrently stimulate the body to produce anti-inflammatory agents that are delivered to the joints. Beyond relief of inflammation, omega-3s are known to promote suppleness and flexibility in the joints.

Q: Will omega-3 promote heart health, even if I am at risk for a heart attack?
A: omega-3s are essential for heart health, whether you are at risk or not. They have been shown to promote a number of heart-healthy effects including, but not limited to: reducing triglyceride levels; raising levels of HDL (“good") cholesterol; reducing levels of homocysteine; reducing blood pressure; and slowing the progression of atherosclerosis. It is always advisable to inform your doctor of changes to your dietary regimen though, especially if you are at risk for heart-related conditions.

Q: Is it safe for pregnant women to take omega-3?
A: Yes, omega-3 is safe for pregnant women. In fact, research suggests that omega-3s are essential for the optimal development of the fetus. They are especially important for the formation of a healthy brain, eyes and nervous system. Each is made up in large part from the long chain omega-3s and studies have shown that if the mother´s diet does not provide sufficient omega-3, then the formation and function of the fetal organs can be impaired. Further, it is recommended that omega-3 supplementation continue throughout lactation so that the newborn can continue to receive the developmental benefits through breast feeding. It is highly recommended though that you consult your physician about any changes to your dietary regimen during pregnancy.

Q: Are there any diseases with which it is unsafe to take omega-3?
A: There are no known dangers from omega-3 supplements associated with any disease or condition. However, if you are at risk for a serious health condition, it is always advisable to inform your physician of any changes to your dietary regimen.

Q: How does omega-3 benefit my brain?
A: For babies and young children, insufficient amounts of omega-3 can negatively impact brain development and lead to long-term brain-related disorders such as dyslexia and ADHD. Research on adults suggests that maintenance of proper omega-3 levels can positively impact cognitive function, mental clarity and focus, as well as mitigate the negative effects of cognitive disorders. If you are suffering from impairment of cognitive function of any kind, it is suggested that you discuss changes to your dietary regimen with your doctor.

Q: Is there a connection between omega-3 and my mood?
A: Studies have shown that those who regularly take omega-3 supplements consistently report better mood, and an improved sense of well-being. Further, research suggests that serious mood conditions such as depression and bipolar disorder can be affected by brain omega-3 levels. Studies comparing the incidence of depression in different areas of the world have suggested that depression is less common in areas where large amounts of fish are consumed. If you suffer from a mood disorder, it is highly recommended that you consult your healthcare professional about changes to your dietary regimen.

Q: Will omega-3 positively impact my vision?
A: For babies and young children, omega-3 is essential for the proper development of eyesight, as well as the associated cognitive functions. For adults, omega-3 deficiencies have been shown to lead to vision conditions such as macular degeneration. Given that a significant part of the structure of the retina of the eye is composed of the long chain polyunsaturates, it essential to avoid omega-3 deficiencies to maintain eye health and reduce the risk of degenerative disorders. If you are visually impaired, or are at risk for visual health conditions, it is suggested that you inform your optometrist or opthamologist of changes to your dietary regimen.

Q: Could you explain the connection between omega-3 and psoriasis?
A: Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease and increasing the amount of the omega-3 in the diet is known to reduce inflammation. Since the 1980s, studies have shown significant reduction in the symptoms of psoriasis such as itching, flakiness and redness of skin. To be clear, psoriasis is not cured by omega-3, but it does become much easier to live with and can be more readily controlled. If you suffer from psoriasis, it is advisable to consult your primary caregiver about changes to your dietary regimen.

Q: What is the relationship between omega-3 and cancer?
A: There is ample evidence that a connection exists between cultures in which omega-3s are consumed through eating large amounts of fish, and lower incidence of several types of cancer. A growing body of research suggests that omega-3s can reduce cancer risk, aid the functioning of cancer treatment drugs, and prevent the spread of cancer by reducing the levels of certain hormones. If you are at risk for cancer, it is recommended that you discuss your dietary regimen with your physician.

Q: Will omega-3 help my cholesterol levels?
A: omega-3 does improve the body´s cholesterol levels. Improvement is the result of decreasing LDL ("bad") cholesterol, increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol, and reducing triglycerides levels in the bloodstream. Additionally, omega-3 has been shown to improve the functioning of the liver, which is where the body produces cholesterol. If cholesterol or triglyceride levels are an issue for you, it is suggested that you inform your doctor of your diet and supplementation choices.

Q: If I have rheumatoid arthritis, how many PharmaOmega Life capsules should I take a day?
A: Sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis will need to take 6 capsules (3 in the monring, 3 in the evening) for 4 weeks. Thereafter, take 3-4 capsules per day. 6 capsules may seem like alot, but it is important for the omega-3 to build up in the tissue in order to feel the relief. Once that point is reached, it should be possible to reduce the daily dosage without losing the benefit.

Q: If I have experienced a retinal detachment, will omega-3 be helpful to me?
A: omega-3 DHA is a special fat that resides in the retina of the eye. The brain and eye selectively store and utilize DHA, and therefore, getting enough omega-3 through diet or supplementation is important to eye health. You are encourage to take DHA from a purified fish oil product to support your eye health. A minimum of 400 mg DHA from fish oil per day, and EPA is suggested.

Q: I have a 10 year old son who is having trouble focusing in class from time to time. Would omega-3 help him?
A: omega-3 (EPA and DHA) would help your son. Supplementing with EPA and DHA from fish oil has been shown in research studies to improve focus and learning, even reading, in children (an average dose of 500 mg EPA, 200 mg DHA/day). These days, most children don’t get enough omega-3 in their diet, mostly because it’s not prevalent in the food supply anymore. And there is no need to worry about side effects - there aren’t many, according to research.

Q: Does taking omega-3 cause swelling and rash on the lower legs? I have been taking 2400 to 4800 mg omega-3 for about 6 weeks and have swollen lower legs that have an itchy rash.
A: The quality of the product you take can make a difference. But as long as you are taking a pharmaceutical grade omega-3, there isn’t any reason why omega-3 would cause this problem. Generally, omega-3 helps circulation. You should consult your physician about that condition.

Q: If I’m trying to get pregnant what type of omega-3 should I take?
A: You are a wise woman to be thinking of this now. Research is indicating that a woman’s level of omega-3s at time of conception influence both the baby’s and mom’s health. DHA from fish oil is required for normal development of the baby’s brain, eyes, immune system and central nervous system. EPA has other benefits. Together these also help your mood.   Purified fish oil, providing EPA and DHA, would be helpful, especially if you are going to limit your consumption of fish and seafood. Flax seeds are a source of another omega-3 which is healthy, but doesn’t give you the EPA and DHA that you and your babe need.

Q: Last week (Oct 4, 2007) a group of scientists from the National Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition made a statement recommending more that women who want to become pregnant, or are pregnant or breastfeeding eat at least 12 oz of fish per week. Why didn’t they mention fish oil supplements?
A: Good question. Scientists and national organizations see the importance of omega-3 fats (EPA and DHA found in fish) for women and pregnancy. They look at our food supply because that is where recommendations begin; we eat food to live. Unfortunately, our fish supply has heavy metals in it (more in some than others) and it’s a challenge to know how much is safe to consume (how much heavy metal is safe?). The announcement last week underscores the importance of getting enough EPA and DHA and this group of scientists has decided the benefit is worth the known risks. Purified fish oil capsules are an excellent way to get these important fats without the same risk. It’s also easy. Better companies (e.g. products by PharmaOmega) provide fish oil capsules that are concentrated in EPA and DHA and purified so they have essentially no mercury or other heavy metals (e.g. lead, arsenic) or other things you don’t want to ingest.

Q: If I’m pregnant, should I start taking fish oil capsules? Is it too late?
A: Yes, I would encourage you to consider taking purified fish oil capsules. Start anytime. The omega-3s in fish oil are good for you and your developing baby. The baby needs the most DHA in the last trimester, and what you eat will be available to the baby right away. For mom, consuming EPA and DHA during and after pregnancy helps you both during and after in many, many ways. Some of the newest research is showing that fish oil helps reduce postpartum depression. Good news for everyone.

Q: I like flax seed oil, and it’s an omega-3. Why not just take flax seed oil?
A: Flax seeds are a healthy food, but the type of omega-3 fat in flax seed oil is different from the omega-3 fat in fish oil. Flax seed oil provides alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and mothers and babies need EPA and DHA, the omega-3s found in fish oil.

Q: I am nursing, is it okay for me to take omega-3?
A: Taking purified fish oil capsules while nursing is beneficial for both you and your baby and you are wise to supplement. Timing is important. It is critical that the product be purified. The vital omega-3s during this time are in fish oil, not flax oil. These omega-3s are essential nutrients that must come from the diet. For your baby, omega-3s contribute to proper development of the brain and immune system. For you, they promote good mental health, a healthy metabolism and more.

Q: What is the best thing to take to have a very good memory? Is there really something to take for memory or is it just a money scam?
A: It’s been shown that actively engaging the brain in ‘memory’ activities, such as cross-word puzzles is helpful. Fish oil has been shown to support healthy brain function in adulthood (and a better mood), and as we age, research has shown that people who consume more of the omega-3s found in fish oil have better cognition (e.g. reasoning, knowing, thinking, etc).

Q: Is omega-3 safe to take for someone who has diabetes and coronary artery disease?
A: Omega-3 is certainly safe for someone who has diabetes and/or coronary artery disease to take. Recent research indicates that omega-3 has a beneficial effect on insulin sensitivity, and omega-3's profound benefits on heart health are well documented.

Q: I suffer from agoraphobia. Will omega-3 fish oil help me?
A: The research on omega-3's benefits for those who suffer from mood disorders such as depression, anxiety and agoraphobia is expanding with some promising preliminary results. Omega-3 has been shown to improve one's sense of well-being, so it would certainly not hurt to take omega-3 fish oil.

Q: How much fish oil should I take each day to improve mental health?
A: It’s recommended that adults consume at least 650 mg of EPA and DHA from fish oil, and for better mental health, experts recommend at least 1 gram of EPA and DHA per day.

Q: Can taking omega-3 clear my skin?
A: They help. Omega-3s are part of a healthful diet and they can help reduce inflammatory reactions, such as skin eruptions. Daily, gentle (non-harsh) cleansing and hydration is also important. Skin is living tissue; in fact, it’s the largest organ in the body.

Q: Can omega-3 help me with erectile dysfunction (ED)?
A: Yes. Strong circulation is essential for healthy erectile function. Hearty blood flow and effective blood vessel functioning are promoted by good circulation and vascular health; by improving these and other vital health factors, omega-3s can help with ED. DHA, a unique omega-3 fat in fish oil, is an integral component of sperm.

Q: My daughter has lupus. Is omega-3 safe for her to take?
A: Yes, omega-3 from fish oil provides essential fats that everyone needs for good health, plus research suggests that fish oil would be beneficial for your daughter.

Q: Does omega-3 promote sleep?
A: It can. Omega-3 does not directly impact sleep, but consuming omega-3 fat improves overall nutrition status and supports good nerve and cell function, and this can promote sleep.

Q: If I’m allergic to fish, am I also allergic to fish oil?
A: It depends. Generally when people are allergic to fish, they are allergic to components in the fish muscle. The oil is pressed from fish and then filtered and purified to remove these and other components. It primarily depends on your immune system and your particular allergy.

Q: What role does omega-3 play with the prostate?
A: Leading institutions such as University of Maryland Medical Center have reported that research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids from fish (EPA and DHA), particularly when coupled with a low-fat diet, may help to inhibit the growth of prostate cancer. Omega-3 appears to play a role in maintaining the health of the prostate for those who do not have cancer.

Medications & Side Effects:

Q: How will the omega-3 interact with prescription medications?
A: Omega-3 fats from fish (EPA and DHA) are a natural part of a normal, healthy diet. Everyone needs to eat some omega-3 fat. In general, EPA and DHA do not interfere with medications. There is concern of risk with taking higher doses of omega-3s with blood thinning medications. In some instances, however, omega-3s help medications work better. After all, omega-3s improve your nutritional status. We advise that you tell your healthcare practitioner that you are taking dietary supplements, especially when taking medication.

Q: I am taking Lipitor. Is it okay for me to take omega-3?
A: omega-3 fats have proven benefits for circulation and blood lipids, such as cholesterol and triglycerides. Research in humans has shown that purified fish oil products (e.g PharmaOmega life) can be taken along with medications such as Lipitor, often with an additive benefit, such as healthier cholesterol and lower triglycerides. Be sure to tell your doctor what supplements you are taking.

Q: I am taking Concerta. Is it okay for me to take omega-3 too?
A: Several research studies have shown excellent benefits from taking purified fish oil products for attention deficit issues. In some of these studies, individuals remained on their medication and realized additional benefits with no adverse interactions. omega-3 EPA and DHA are essential fats that we need in our diet, and because they provide the brain and body with important nutrients, they often compliment other therapies. Be sure to tell your doctor what supplements you are taking.

Q: My daughter had an allergic reaction to the protein in Tilapia. Should I be concerned about omega-3?
A: You are correct that an allergic reaction is usually to the protein component of a food. Omega-3 is a fat. Omega-3 itself does not contain protein. Foods in which omega-3 naturally occurs, or foods to which omega-3 is added, may of course have protein so you will want to be careful with those foods. However, if you want to increase your daughter's omega-3 intake, a concentrated and purified supplement like PharmaOmega should be safe.

Q: Is PharmaOmega safe to take with Coumadin?
A: Some studies have shown that omega-3 can increase bleeding times, although typically not to an unsafe extent. Therefore, to be safe, if you are taking an anticoagulant (blood thinner) like Coumadin, have your physician periodically check your clotting times to ensure that they remain at acceptable levels.

Q: My doctor has me on a diuretic for my heart disease. Is omega-3 okay for me to take?
A: Omega-3 fish oil is highly beneficial to those who have, or are at risk for, heart disease. If you are currently taking a diuretic like HydroDiuril or Lozol, be sure to consult your doctor as dosage levels of the medication may need to be adjusted when used in conjunction with omega-3.

Q: I’m on a beta-blocker. Can I take omega-3 fish oil?
A: Omega-3 has been shown to benefit those who suffer from high blood pressure or hypertension. Therefore, if you have been prescribed a beta-blocker like Tenormin or Lopressor for hypertension, high blood pressure, angina, chest pain or heart attack, omega-3 can have an additive benefit. As always, consult your physician before making changes to your diet or health regimen.

Q: Is fish oil better than Lipitor for cholesterol?
A: In published research, concentrated omega-3 supplements have been shown to effectively complement these types of medications. Fish oil improves overall blood lipids, improves blood pressure and reduces triglycerides. In addition, omega-3s in fish oil promote better circulation and overall heart health.

Q: Can I take omega-3 fish oil for generalized anxiety disorder along with sertraline (Zoloft)?
A: Research indicates that omega-3 fish oil does have benefits for those who suffer from mood disorders like anxiety. There is no contraindication for sertraline (Zoloft) and omega-3. However, we always recommend that you consult your physician about changes to your dietary routine.

General:

Q: Should I take omega-3 with food?
A: It’s not necessary to take omega-3 supplements with food, but omega-3 is a fat (a good-for-you fat) and fat is digested better with other foods. It’s preferable to take fish oil supplements with a meal or snack.

Q: What is the recommended daily dosage of omega-3?
A: For adults, the minimum recommended intake of EPA + DHA is 650 mg per day. This is a minimum. Depending on your daily diet, your health status, your family medical history and wellness goals, your recommended dose may vary. Please consult with a nutritionist and/or see our suggested usage guide.

Q: How much omega-3 can be obtained from fish, if any?
A: omega-3 is naturally occurring in fish of all kinds, but the amount varies greatly depending on: habitat; what the fish eats; and the body composition (fattiness and oiliness) of the species of fish. Unfortunately, regardless of the type and amount of fish you consume, it is very difficult to get an adequate amount of omega-3.

Q: Can I get the same benefits from eating fish as I will from taking Omega-3 fish oil supplements?
A: Fish is a good source of lean protein, and depending on the type of fish, how it is cooked and how much you eat, it will provide some omega-3 fats and minerals. Fish oil supplements, such as PharmaOmega LIFE, provide a reliable, convenient, and purified dose omega-3 fats. There are concerns with purity (toxins) from eating certain types of fish; there is no need to worry about purity with better fish oil products.

Q: Should I be concerned about taking an overdose of omega-3?
A: It is highly unlikely that you could overdose on omega-3. We do recommend that you follow the dosage directions you receive from our Dosage Calculator unless otherwise directed by your healthcare professional.

Q: Do omega-3 capsules require refrigeration?
A: No, they do not. But is preferable that they are stored in a cool, dry place rather than in conditions of extreme heat or cold.

Q: What does "pharmaceutical-grade" mean?
A: The term "pharmaceutical-grade" refers to a set of specifications regarding the amounts of the various fatty acids contained in the oil after processing. These specifications are defined in a pharmacopia, which is a compendium of all organic and inorganic substances used for health or medicinal purposes.

Q: Should I be concerned about toxins, heavy metals, pesticides or other pollution in omega-3 supplements?
A: Generally, there is no need for concern. Most omega-3 supplements are purified through a process called "molecular-distillation". This is a process by which all harmful materials - heavy metals, mercury, PCB´s, and other toxins - are separated and removed completely from the fish oil. The government mandates that levels of these impurities be disclosed to the consumer, so it is suggested that you always read the Supplement / Nutrition Facts of any product you consume.

Q: Can taking omega-3 cause the stool to harden?
A: Omega-3s from pure fish oil do not cause stools to harden. Typically, omega-3s from fish oil help this situation. Consuming fiber from whole grains (e.g. oatmeal), whole fruits and vegetables (e.g. apples and potatoes with skin) and beans (e.g. kidney beans) will add bulk to stools and improve bowel movements. Most Americans do not consume the recommended 20-25 grams of fiber per day.

Q: Will omega-3 cause me to gain weight?
A: No. omega-3 from fish oil (EPA + DHA) does not cause weight gain. In fact, there is evidence indicating that taking fish oil along with regular exercise can increase fat loss. omega-3 is a fat, and fat has 9 calories per gram, but it’s a fat that is essential to our diet and is a 'good' fat.

Q: Is your product safe for me to give to my dog? If so, what is the recommended dosage?
A: Omega-3 is beneficial for dogs. We recommend that you puncture the capsule and put the oil on your dog’s food. 1/2 to 2/3 of a capsule per day should be adequate for an average sized dog (40 – 50 lbs). We recommend that you select the PharmaOmega Life plain flavor, as citrus and mint flavorings can sometimes be harmful to pets.

Q: Please tell me all about gout and how I can stop pain when I eat meat.
A: Classic gout is a medical condition that results in pain, most often in the feet and joints. It is customary to follow a special diet, which includes eliminating meat. There are proteins in meat which contribute to aches and pain, and avoiding these foods, at least for a while, is generally helpful. I encourage you to see a registered dietitian for dietary advice.

Q: Where are the fish used to make your omega-3 fish oil caught?
A: The source of our fish oil is primarily anchovies, sardines and mackerel, which are caught in the cold waters of the South Pacific. This is a sustainable source of fish given that none of them are over-fished or endangered.

Q: What is the health benefit of taking calcium and vitamin D?
A: Calcium is important for bone and nerve health. Calcium is necessary for proper nerve transmission, and it provides structure for our bones. Vitamin D is also helpful for bone and nerve health, and recent research indicates that vitamin D is very important for healthy immune function as well as heart health. Magnesium is a complementary nutrient to this combination.

Q: I had been taking Zeolite (liquidzeolitecompany.com) to rid my body of heavy metals. I ended up having a metal taste in my mouth. My chiropractor told me that omega's are needed to carry the loosened heavy metal out of my body. Do you agree?
A: We agree that omega fats are necessary for optimal metabolism. Proper elimination is part of healthy metabolism. I suspect your chiropractor is encouraging you to be fully nourished, and that includes having omega-3 fats in your diet. Our bodies don’t make omega-3 fatty acids so we need to ingest them. In addition, your DC may want you to get omega-3 fats without risk for consuming additional metals, such as mercury, which are present in some fish.

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