Dispelling More Myths About Omega 3 Benefits
Being responsible means knowing what Omega 3 benefits really are
Omega 3 benefits us in many ways, but as with any health trend, there are a lot of myths floating around. Being a wise consumer -- both in terms of shopping and consuming omega 3s -- means knowing the facts, not listening to whoever's spouting off on the radio this morning. With that in mind, here are some of the most common myths about omega fatty acids -- and the truth behind them.
1. Eating flax is just as good as eating fish.
OR
Eating fish will give you all the omega 3 benefits you need.
Unfortunately for our vegetarian friends, studies have shown that there are more than one type of omega fatty acids. It's important that you get all of them. The two most important types of omega 3s are EPA and DHA, which we find only in fish oils.
When you consume non-marine omega 3 foods, such as walnuts, flax, and canola oil, you are getting ALA, a different type of omega 3. Although EPA and DHA are the omega 3s most recommended to protect against heart disease, ALA helps with things like your ability to heal and your skin's texture. All three types are necessary, so if you're not getting them, it's time to look into some omega supplements.
2. Omega supplements often smell bad, which is normal.
Yes, if you open a bottle of fish oil, there may be a faint fishy odor -- that's normal. But if the smell coming off your omega supplements makes you gag, DO NOT USE THEM! It doesn't happen often, but omega supplements can spoil, and if they smell rancid then they probably are.
3. Taking fish oil supplements can sabotage your diet.
It seems normal to think that anything with the words 'fat' and 'oil' in the title is a diet no-no, but studies have shown that omega supplements and omega 3 foods actually assist with weight loss. Keep in mind, though, that most of these studies involved rats and mice, not humans. In other words, while omega 3s won't hurt your diet, you probably shouldn't rely on them as a primary method of weight loss.
4. All omega supplements are the same.
This one is absolutely untrue. We're so eager to get the benefits of omega 3 that we often fail to stop and really think about what we're putting in our bodies. This is especially true for children. For instance, the old standby cod liver oil often includes dangerous toxins (because that's the liver's job in a body) and very high levels of vitamin A, which doctors recommend against feeding children.
It's great for you and your family to consume omega 3 foods, but it's important to be aware of the facts. Make sure you learn the truth so you get your full omega 3 benefits.
