Typically when we talk about EPA and DHA or essential fatty acids, we refer to them as fish oil. But what about vegans and vegetarians? I know of some companies that are making EPA and DHA from algae. Whew! Problem solved.

EPA and DHA are two molecules at the end of the eicosanoid pathway that lead to Prostaglandin E3 which is inflammatory modulating, clot preventative, triglyceride reducing and strengthens cell walls. Some conditions that are improved with this supplement are diabetes, cardiovascular disease, MS, arthritis, cancer, high blood pressure, skin conditions, depression/anxiety, allergies, etc. In addition, as my wonderful midwife explained to me, the foggy brain of pregnancy is caused by a DHA deficiency. That growing baby needs lots of DHA for healthy growth of the nervous system and it gets it all from momma!

Omega-3 fatty acid are essential, which means that the body cannot make them, so they must be consumed daily. And, as we shared yesterday, alpha-linolenic acid is NOT therapeutically equivalent to EPA and DHA. When I’m looking for a good supplement, I look for three things: 1) it has been made from smaller fish like sardines and herring 2) that it has been purified or filtered to remove toxins from the ocean like mercury, dioxins, PCBs, etc. 3) that it contains some antioxidant substance to prevent rancidity (Vitamin E, essential oils like rosemary, etc.)

There are a lot of decent products out there that meet those requirements, but if you get a fishy smell after taking it, the product is rancid. Companies that don’t use enough antioxidants in the formulation run the risk of damaging these sensitive oils when encapsulating them in gel that requires heat. Always keep your Omega 3s in the refrigerator or freezer, and consider liquid oil as an option.

My two favorite companies are Pure Encapsulations and Nordic Naturals. PE makes the Vegetarian EPA/DHA as well as some other great formulations like the one with glucosamine for joint health, or with CoQ10 for heart health. I’ve used all of their products successfully and have had very happy clients. But PE is a physician grade supplement and can be purchased through a qualified practitioner like myself, or, here in Buffalo can also be purchased at Pine Pharmacy. (I give great discounts to my clients on things I recommend)

Krill oil is another option. It is more expensive (more than double the price), usually comes in smaller caps, and is allegedly better for heart conditions. I’ve personally never recommended it because I see results with the fish oil. Any users of Krill out there?

Also, I had someone with a soy sensitivity tell me that they have been avoiding fish oils because many contain soy. While that may be true for some, PE’s EPA/DHA Essentials does not.

Lastly, Cod Liver Oil is another option and it also contains Vitamin D and A. However, it is not usually enough to compensate for a Vitamin D deficiency which almost everyone has.