Fish Oil Frenzy

Almost everyone has heard that fish oils are good for you.  But how good?  And how much?  And are they for me?  And which ones should I pick?  All good questions...all deserving of clarification!

If you're already taking fish oils, check out this website which will allow you to look your supplement up and see what its star rating will be.  Products are graded out of 5 stars.  A five star product means the content of the supplement is consistent with the labeling (it is what it says it is!), and it passes oxidation, PCB, and heavy metal content standards.

Why does all that matter?  Well, fish are known to contain heavy metals (mercury is the most famous one) and PCBs (chemicals that can cause neurologic issues) as contaminants.  So, fish oils (the good ones anyway) are screened to be sure they don't contain (anywhere near) toxic levels of either substance.

Now, if you're on the fence about taking fish oils - here are the facts:

• Taking fish oils before meals lessens "repeat" and taking lemon flavored ones can be even better
• The sum of DHA and EPA is the actual dose of omega-3 fatty acids that you need (which should total 1g per day)
• Eating two servings of oily fish weekly is the equivalent of 1 gram daily of fish oil supplements
• If you have any history of heart disease, a strong family risk, or high risk yourself - then taking fish oils is a no brainer - it can reduce your risk of sudden cardiac death!

• Because there are little to no harms from eating fish or taking supplements, all adults should eat 2 servings of oily fish per week (and if you're not able to do that, then supplement)!
• If you are pregnant, nursing, or trying to become pregnant - hold off on the fish oils (this warrants a further discussion with your physician).

Dr. Mark Turshen MD and Dr. Lauren Hedde DO are accepting new patients at their Direct Doctors family practice in Wickford.  Direct Doctors is an innovative primary care practice emphasizing an improved doctor-patient relationship.  Drs. Hedde and Turshen offer 24/7 access, no waiting, same day visits, home visits, and a doctor who knows YOU well!  If you are frustrated with “fast-food," “cookie-cutter” healthcare, Direct Doctors may be just the prescription for you. Check out the Direct Doctors difference at www.directdoctors.org, email [email protected], or call 401-400-2699.