DHA-docoahexaenoic acid is found in the brain, the retina, and in sperm. High amounts of DHA enhance brain function and aids in memory. EPA-eicosapentoic acid and ALA-Alpha-linolenic acid are also forms of 0mega 3’s. They are found in a variety of sources mainly in fish and in plants.
There are two forms of Omega 3’s triglycerides - the storage form of fat that has 3 carbon atoms (glycerol) each with a fatty acid attached to it. The second form is Ethyl esters have similar health benefits as regular Omega 3’s. Purified Omega 3’s are available as concentrates in supplement form or by prescription.
There are several types of fish that provide good sources of quality Omega 3 fatty acids. Among the best sources of Omega 3 is a fish that is native to New Zealand called the Hoki. It is found in cold, fresh water. There are many fish sources as well as non-fish sources.
Wild Salmon (Chinook, Sockeye), Rainbow Trout, and Tuna that is canned or frozen are good Omega 3 fish. Mackerel, Anchovies, and Sardines are also rich in these essential fatty acids. It is also found in Cod, Haddock, Halibut, Catfish, and Flounder. Oysters, Shrimp, Scallops, Omarco (Pronova), Whiting, and King Crab are also excellent Omega 3 sources.
Larger fish such as shark are at a higher risk of having contaminants. The contaminants include heavy metals, fat soluble, pollutants, and such as PCB’S. The higher on the food chain a fish is, the greater the risk for contamination.
Many people are concerned about the purity of fish oil Omega 3 fatty acids because of reports of Mercury contamination in particular. Other contaminants come from pollutants that are either man made (chemicals and waste) or naturally occurring pollutants. This concern is very valid and some manufacturers have taken measures to address this by implementing a process of removing contaminants and toxins called Molecular Distillation.
The more pure a supplement is, it has greater potency and is much safer. Omega 3 supplements are also sold in Pharmaceutical Grade formulas and are considered the best natural source of Omega 3.
Omega 3 fish oil supplements generally come from the body oils of fatty fish while others come from fish livers. The fish livers actually have less Omega 3 and are at more risk of having contamination. Talk to your physician or a Natural Food/Health Store to decide whether Omega 3 supplements would benefit you and at what doses. Always check with your doctor before making any changes in your vitamin/supplement or medication regimen.