There are more than 4,000 published studies on omega-3 fatty acids including human clinical trials. Omega-3s provide many important health benefits from brain to heart to mood to skin. For children it promotes brain and nervous system development. Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids and are considered essential because the body cannot make them— we must get them through diet or supplementation. The best sources of omega-3s are fish, tuna, mackerel, and sardines. 95% of Americans do not get enough EPA/DHA. Flaxseed and soybeans need to be converted in the body to EPA and DHA which is a difficult and inefficient process—many are unable to do.
The most beneficial omega-3s are EPA—most recognized for its cardiovascular health benefits and DHA—known for its role in supporting brain and vision function.
The typical American diet is high in omega-6s which is inflammatory. These come from vegetable and seed oils. While we want some omega-6s in our diet, the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 should be 4:1. The typical diet is low in omega-3s and high in omega-6, with a ratio of 15:1 (omega-6 to omega-3).
We recommend Carlson’s brand cod liver oil for its purity, no artificial ingredients, no GMOs, wild caught, no mercury, no lead, no PCBs, and free of 28 other contaminants found in fish oils. It is bottled at the source to ensure freshness. They are sustainably sourced and have several awards for sustainability.
What about cod liver oil or fish oil thinning the blood? This would only become significant at a high dose of 3,000 mg per day for an extended period of time.
For the average adult, I recommend 1-tablespoon per day, taken with food. For children, 1-teaspoon per day with food.
