Health benefits of omega 3 oils

Here is a quick list the most recognised health benefits of omega 3 oil that is sourced from fish oil and the healthy vegetable oils, such as olive and flax seed oil.

• A healthy heart
• Support for concentration, memory and learning
• Blood sugar health
• Healthy joints, with an increase in joint comfort
• Fighting the signs of aging
• Healthy brain and nervous system function and development
• Protection for cell membranes
• Cholesterol and other blood lipid health
• Healthy liver function
• Relief of normal PMS symptoms
• Bolstering the immune system
• Healthy mood support
• Optimal skin, hair and nails health (eczema, psoriasis, dry skin)
• Improved quality of life

During winter you are advised to take cod liver oil because it is rich in vitamin D and A, both of which are essential for immune health. Thompson's now put out a vitamin D supplement which has fish oil in it. Flax oil is a good alternative to the fish oil sources and you could add garlic oil, either Wagner Aged Kyolic Garlic or Red Seal Garlic Oil. Then there is Evening Primrose Oil from Thompsons (all available from www.myotec.co.nz).

Most omega 3 oils are highly unstable, especially fish oil, which is why quality fish oils usually come with vitamin E. Vitamin E is a powerful anti-oxidant which is not only good for you but also good for the oil because it prevents the oil from oxidising, including while it is circulating through your body doing its good works. When taking omega 3 oil, it is therefore advised that you take in some extra vitamin E. But beware of the synthetic kinds - seek out natural sources, such as Kordel's Natural Vitamin E. There are doubts about the health benefits of synthetic vitamin E.

People ask which is best? My response is to suggest taking a mix of all the various sources of omega oils - so fish oil now and then switch to flax oil and then add some cod liver oil and garlic oil over winter and so on and so on. Variety is the spice of life! And so it is with diet. Of course, your diet should be very healthy with fresh fish, garlic, onions, spinach and brocolli on the menu. A hearty beef bone broth is a rich source of minerals.