| Frequently Asked Questions |
What is Omega-3, EPA and DHA?
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are the principle fatty acids found in fish. These two acids belong to the family known as Omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) required by the human body to sustain life, and are only manufactured by the body to a limited extent, if at all.
Why are they “essential” and so important?
They are “essential” because they are needed by the human body in order for us to function optimally. But, these essential fatty acids are only manufactured by the human body to such a small extent that we need to obtain them from our diet on a daily basis. Without this constant supply of EFAs, the body’s systems would not have the ability to manufacture essential compounds like prostaglandins.
What are the signs of EFA deficiency?
Signs of Fatty Acid Imbalance (from the book "Smart Fats")
| Dry skin |
Alligator skin |
"Chicken skin" on back of arms |
| Dandruff |
Lowered immunity |
Dry eyes |
| Frequent urination |
Fatigue |
Poor wound healing |
| Irritability |
Dry, unmanageable hair |
Frequent infections |
| Attention deficit |
Hyperactivity |
Learning problems |
| Soft nails |
Brittle, easily frayed nails |
Patches of pale skin on cheeks |
| Allergies |
Excessive thirst |
Cracked skin on heels or fingertips |
Omega-3 deficiencies have also been tied to many conditions, including the following:
| dyslexia |
violence |
| depression |
memory problems |
| weight gain |
cancer |
| heart disease |
eczema |
| allergies |
inflammatory diseases |
| arthritis |
diabetes |
What are the side effects?
There are no side effects. You may experience some repeating (burping) initially, but this is likely due to your body not manufacturing enough lipase, an enzyme required to digest oils. If you have not taken fish oils for a long period, it may take 1-2 weeks for your body to adjust and manufacture sufficient quantities of this enzyme.
Are fish oils safe from heavy metals, PCB’s, pesticides and dioxins?
This is where PREMIUM OMEGA-3 products offer superior quality and purity. Our products are third party tested and exceed all International and National standards for environmental pollutants. We are one of a select group that complies with the CRN Monogram (Council for Responsible Nutrition).
What is the recommended intake of Omega-3 fatty acids?
ISSFAL Recommended Dosage Chart
| Category |
Weight |
Dosage |
| Infants (1-18 months) |
0-15 lbs |
32 mg/lb EPA+DHA |
| Children (1.5-15 yrs) |
|
15 mg/lb EPA+DHA |
| Adults (15-115 yrs) |
|
650 mg EPA+DHA |
| |
|
220 mg EPA -minimum |
| |
|
220 mg DHA -minimum |
| Lactating Women |
|
300 mg DHA daily |
Do we get sufficient EFA’s from our diets?
Herein lies the problem. Western diets have changed so much that we simply do not get sufficient EFA’s from the food we eat. It is clinically documented that we should eat fish approximately 2-4 times a week to ensure that we get enough EFA’s. However, much of the fish you eat today is farm raised and lacks significant amounts of EFA’s. Supplementation with a premium fish oil is recommended by healthcare professionals today.
