Should You Be Taking Fish Oil? Find Out
We all need essential fatty acids for optimum health, but most Americans are eating too many omega-6 fatty acids (mainly from soybean and vegetable oils), and not enough omega-3 fatty acids (found in oily fish, walnuts and freshly ground flaxseed). This imbalance can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, inflammatory conditions, cancer and other health concerns.
While eating several servings of oily fish (Dr. Weil prefers wild Alaskan salmon and sardines) per week is a start, you may want to take fish oil supplements, especially if you don’t enjoy fish. Available in liquid or capsule forms, fish oil is effective at helping to reduce blood pressure, is beneficial to the nervous system, and can even help address mild to moderate depression. Look for capsules or oil that are certified free of contaminants, and begin with small daily doses.
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