Best Absorb Fish Oil Supplements

Omega fatty acids in fish oil supplements benefit the hearts of healthy people as well as those at high risk of or those who currently have cardiovascular disease. (See Reference 1) Although the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends eating fish at least twice a week to receive optimal health benefits of omega fatty acids, this option is not available to all. A fish oil supplement containing omega acids 3, 6 and 9 is a suitable alternative.

Instructions

best absorb fish oil supplements

1. Purchase a high-quality fish oil supplement at a vitamin or health food store. On Time Magazine's website, noted author and physician Andrew Weil, M.D., recommended the brands Nordic Naturals and Zone.

2. Store fish oil supplements in the refrigerator or another cool place to keep them fresh and ensure good absorption. Do not heat them.

3. Take a fish oil supplement daily, at any time of day, with at least 8 oz. of water. The average daily dose is 2,000 mg, but talk to your doctor or nutritionist about an amount that will benefit you.

4. Maintain a healthy diet. In a study published in Hypertension: Journal of the American Heart Association, researchers reported that "in order to maximize the benefit from fish oil supplementation, patients at risk for heart failure should not consume a high saturated fat diet."

5. Reap the health benefits of fish oil. A 2002 study sponsored by the AHA concluded that supplements containing the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil may decrease risk of arrhythmias (which can lead to sudden cardiac death), decrease triglyceride levels, decrease growth rate of atherosclerotic plaque and lower blood pressure. (See Reference 2) Fish oil may also prove beneficial in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. (See Reference 3)

Tags: fatty acids, fish supplement, fish supplements, American Heart, American Heart Association, health benefits, Heart Association