Therapeutic Benefits
Fish oils are the main sources of the omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. Omega-3s are very important as the body can’t produce these and only obtains them from the diet. Cold water fish such as herring, kipper, mackerel, menhaden, pilchard, salmon, sardine, and trout are rich sources of these omega-3s.

As the brain is made up of around 10% fat, a diet that is low in omega-3s may affect the fatty acid composition of cells in the brain which may alter their function, including intellectual or cognitive development (the ability to think, learn and remember). There is also preliminary evidence that low levels of omega-3s, especially DHA, may affect retinal, visual, learning, and memory functions.

EPA and DHA are also beneficial for the muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bones, joints, spinal discs, gastrointestinal (includes the mouth, oesophagus, stomach, and intestines), immune system and for the maintenance of normal blood flow.

DHA is a vital component of the membranes in cells, especially those in the brain and retina (the nerve layer that lines the back of the eye which senses light and transmits impulses through the optic nerve to the brain – corresponds to the film in a camera). As such, DHA is necessary for normal brain development and for the maintenance of normal brain function throughout life. DHA appears to play a major role in the maintenance of normal cognition and mood. DHA is preferred by the brain to any other fatty acid.

Additional benefits of Omega-3s are their ability to reduce blood stickiness, lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol and controlling inflammation within artery walls.

Due to its powerful anti-inflammatory action, Omega-3s have also shown significant benefits in relation to joint stiffness and swelling caused by rheumatism and arthritis. In a recent study, participants taking fish oil supplements daily for 12 weeks or more noticed that they were experiencing less morning stiffness and joint pain. Improvements increased even more after 18 to 24 weeks of taking fish oil supplements, with the benefits lasting for up to 8 weeks after the supplements were stopped.

Detailed investigations have suggested that the long chain Omega-3s are important in regulating the re-uptake of a brain chemical called serotonin. Serotonin is an important chemical found in the brain and plays a vital part in regulating mood, anxiety, impulse control, and thinking abilities.

Omega-3 has also been recognised in assisting with the relief of headache, chronic fatigue syndrome and ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

Cautions & Interactions
Stop taking before any surgery.

Possible interaction with blood thinning medications (eg warfarin), aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Avoid using together

If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.

Minor side effects can include gastrointestinal upsets, “fishy” smelling breath, skin and even urine. The blood thinning effects can cause nosebleeds and easy bruising.

Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Do not exceed 3000 mg of omega 3 fatty acids (8 capsules) per day.

Directions for Use
For Supplementation: Take one capsule three times daily.
For Arthritis: Take up to four capsules, three times daily.
For cholesterol/triglycerides: Take up to five capsules, three times daily.
To reduce any fish after taste, take with or just before meals.