Omega-3 fatty acids are very important.

Omega-3 supplements are the most commonly recommended dietary supplement by healthcare professionals. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that people who want to protect their heart eat at least two servings of fatty fish per week (such as tuna, salmon, sardines or anchovies). Why is eating wild fish good for you?

How can omega-3 fatty acid be explained simply?

The Standard American Diet is high in cholesterol, animal fats and proteins, highly refined and solvent-extracted fats and processed food. SAD also has low fiber, complex carbs, and vegetables. While fish is an excellent source of omega-3, it does not play a major role in most Americans’ diets. We also consume too many polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-6s), which are found in vegetable oils made from corn, soybean, and sunflower. Omega-6 fats may be necessary, but dietary guidelines recommend an omega-3-to-omega-6 ratio of no more than 1:4. SAD promotes a ratio of around 1:20.

Alpha-linolenic (ALA) acid, eicosapentaenoic (EPA), and Docosahexaenoic (DHA) are the three main omega-3 fatty acid. ALA is an Omega-3 fatty acids found in plants. ALA is converted into EPA or DHA by our bodies, but not as efficiently as cold-water fish.

Words like “docosahexaenoic” or “eicosapentaenoic” don’t mean much to me. Scientists and doctors may be able understand the meaning encoded in these names, but I prefer it to be explained in plain English. EPA thins blood, reducing swelling and pain. Our bodies can convert DHA to EPA, but health benefits go beyond that simple process. DHA is beneficial for the brain, as it helps to develop the neurons and cell membranes, reduces blood thickness, and lowers triglycerides. I now understand why these fatty acid are good for our health.

According to the research in PubMed (a database of medical research that contains vast amounts of information), omega-3s are among the most studied nutrients. Nearly 2,000 publications have addressed the link between omega-3s, heart disease and other health conditions. The benefits of omega-3s have not been studied to cure diseases, unlike clinical trials for pharmaceuticals. Researchers are actively working to define the crucial role omega-3s have in maintaining the optimal function of the human body, and by optimal function, I mean health. Omega-3s are not magic, even though they can be purchased as a supplement. The omega-3s work just as nature intended: they are a necessary dietary component for human health that the body needs to obtain through food.

A young healthy person who eats whole foods and fish between one and two times per week, should take 1,000mg of combined EPA/DHA every day. This is just a starting dose. You could double the dosage if you suffer from joint or cardiovascular problems. You should discuss with your doctor the correct dosage of omega-3s, especially if you are taking prescription medications.

The old saying “You get what you pay for” is true when buying either product. Both products are a good example of the old saying, “You get what you buy”. You may be using a product that is made of poor quality fish or has a fishy smell or taste. Omega-3s can go bad due to age or poor manufacturing. Check your bottle’s expiration date.

Triglycerides is another term that we hear often when talking about cardiovascular disease. They are a form of fat (lipids), which is found in blood. Krill contains phospholipids omega-3s that can reduce heart disease risk by lowering bad LDL cholesterol, and increasing HDL cholesterol. The AHA considers a triglyceride concentration of 100 mg/dL (1,1 mmol/L or less) as optimal. The AHA does not recommend drug therapy to achieve this level. The AHA encourages lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and physical activity, to help lower triglycerides.

Omega-3 supplements are not only good for heart health. Omega-3 supplements have been shown to be beneficial for ADHD, Parkinson’s disease, autoimmune disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and brain health. Plant-based foods are becoming more popular among those who live a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.

It is difficult to balance the omega-3s in your diet with the omega-6s, whether you eat a traditional American diet or a more healthy whole-foods diet. This is especially true when we consider that plants do not convert omega-3s into the long-chain Omega-3s EPA & DHA, which are found in fish. We are left with just fish and algae as a way to balance out our intake of animal products and vegetable oils. Yikes! It is important to supplement with fish or algae oils.

Fish oil is important during pregnancy. It supports the development of the fetal nervous system and brain, improves labor and delivery, and promotes postpartum mood. It supports mood, concentration, immunity and body composition throughout childhood. Fish oil is used by me to maintain healthy blood pressure, triglyceride levels, mood, and cognitive function in my adult patients. I use it for a variety of reasons, including painful periods, hot flushes, skin care, allergies, blood glucose balance, joint health and body composition.

If you choose a fish oil supplement, look at the EPA/DHA content, not just the total amount. You should also ensure that it contains a minimum 1,000 mg of EPA/DHA. You will need twice as much algae oil to achieve the same amount of EPA/DHA found in fish oil.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between alternative medicine and complementary medicine?

Alternative medicine refers only to treatment methods that are not recommended by mainstream doctors but have been proven to provide beneficial results for certain conditions. Examples include acupuncture, homeopathy, aromatherapy, reflexology, herbal remedies, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and naturopathy. Complementary medicine refers to therapies that complement traditional treatment. They can be used in conjunction with conventional medicine. These include dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, enzymes, probiotics, and other natural substances.

Both types of medicine are used frequently, but many conventional doctors won’t recommend them due insufficient evidence or safety concerns.

There is no consensus among health care providers regarding the best approach to integrating CAM into patient care.

Many CAM practices are based on theories developed over thousands of years. Some of these therapies may work, according to clinical trials that have been conducted over the last 20 years.

As an example, several studies indicate that acupuncture may relieve pain. The preliminary data suggests that acupuncture may decrease nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy. Another study suggests that acupuncture can improve symptoms such as irritable intestinal syndrome, fibromyalgia chronic fatigue syndrome and multiple sclerosis.

Some CAM techniques may also be beneficial in treating diseases like HIV/AIDS (AIDS), diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.

Experts agree that CAM can help with many ailments, even though we still have a lot to learn about its effectiveness.

As a result, CAM practitioners are becoming more popular as a way to treat common illnesses.

Despite this growing popularity, many people remain confused about what exactly constitutes “alternative” or “complementary” medicine.

What does holistic mean to you?

Holistic refers to being whole-based. Holistic means seeing the whole picture and not just parts of it. This isn’t always possible because we tend not to see things as a whole.

We tend to think in terms of black and white. However, grey comes in a wide range of shades.

Try to look at everything from different perspectives when you work on a project. You should look at it from all sides.

You should try to see it all as one. How does each of its components interact with one another?

You should also ask yourself why the problem is occurring. Don’t forget about the effects of any change that you make.

What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?

The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs and surgery as its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not considered a substitute for conventional treatment but rather an addition to helping patients who want to take control of their healthcare by choosing what they believe is most appropriate.

Naturopathy on the other side is meant to be used in conjunction with conventional medical procedures. It addresses the whole body and mind as well as the soul. There are many forms and types of naturopathy.

It is important not to forget that some CAM modalities overlap or complement conventional medicine. Both doctors and Naturopaths can prescribe herbal remedies. Naturopaths, however, tend to recommend lifestyle changes rather than prescription medication.

Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths may prescribe medication as needed.

There are some differences between naturopathic and other CAM modalities.

Naturopaths usually do not diagnose or prescribe medication.
Naturopaths will work with the patient’s family medicine and may refer patients outpatients to specialists, if necessary.
Naturopathic physicians must be licensed by their provinces. CAM practitioners need to be self-regulated.
Naturopathy stresses prevention and wellness, while offering education on diet and exercise.
Naturopaths emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and exercise.
Naturopharmacists focus on the use of minerals and botanicals to treat certain conditions.
Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient’s needs.
Regulators such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario license Naturopaths.
Provincial regulatory bodies grant licenses to naturopatrists.
Naturopaticians have been registered with The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia has licensed Naturotherapists.
The United States National Board of Medical Examiners is authorized to license Naturobiotic therapists.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will look at all of these aspects rather than just one.

What is the difference in holistic medicine and alternative medicines?

Holistic medicine treats the whole person – mind, body, spirit, and soul. Holistic medicine considers all aspects of a person’s health. This includes the spiritual, psychological, and environmental factors that are often overlooked in conventional medicine. Alternative medicine can be used to treat certain conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, or other medical issues.

What is complementary medicine?

Complementary Medicine is an umbrella term for any medical treatment that complements mainstream medicine. This covers treatments such as acupuncture (aromatherapy), chiropractic care, homeopathy and hypnosis.

Complementary medicines should not be used in lieu of traditional medicine. They should be used alongside it. These complementary medicines are also known as “alternative”, “integrative”, or “integrative” medicine. They combine Western scientific methods and other proven therapies to heal people.

What Is Alternative Medicine?

It’s a method of healing that focuses more on prevention than treatment. It encourages people become educated consumers who are actively involved in improving their overall health and well-being.

Alternative medicine refers generally to any form of diagnosis or treatment that does away with allopathic (conventional), medical approaches.

What are the main advantages of holistic medicine over conventional medicines?

Many cultures and religions around the globe have been using holistic medicine for thousands of year. They were based on ancient wisdom and experience.

These medicines are safe, effective, natural, and affordable. Side effects are less common than with prescription drugs.

They can also improve your health and wellbeing.

They can protect you from disease and improve your overall wellbeing.

They can even treat diseases like cancer, diabetes and heart disease, arthritis, asthma or depression, as well as high blood pressure.

There are hundreds upon hundreds of traditional medicines around the world, each offering unique benefits.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 80% of the world’s population still relies on traditional treatment methods for their injuries and illnesses.

A reported half-billion people use traditional herbal remedies to get primary healthcare.

The global market for complementary therapies is estimated to reach $22.2 billion by 2020.

To avoid side effects from conventional treatments, people are turning to alternative methods of medical care.

When other treatments fail, many people resort to complementary therapies. They may also attempt them before resorting or taking medication.

There are many reasons why people choose to use complementary therapies.

To improve quality of our lives
To reduce stress levels
Relaxation
To relieve pain
To enhance immunity
Help with managing serious illnesses
To boost energy
To control weight
To maintain good nutrition
To improve sleep patterns
To deal with chronic conditions

Statistics

These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)

External Links

How To

How do I deal with my girlfriend who trusts alternative medicine?

The internet advises those dealing with a loved one suffering from mental illness. However, there is very little information on alternative medicine and how to deal with them.

There appears to be a significant divide between the groups. There is a huge divide between those who question conventional medicine and those that are open-minded about its benefits.

What happens when you meet someone who believes that there are alternative treatments to mental health problems?

It’s possible to feel frustrated and confused because you don’t know what to do. What should you say to your partner if he tells that he would prefer to see an acupuncturist to his doctor? Or when she suggests that she would rather eat gluten-free food than take antidepressants?

It is important that you ask questions. It is important to ask questions early so that you don’t have to suffer later.

So how can you ask difficult questions of him without offending? What if he tells you that he doesn’t trust doctors? Tell him that he should not trust anyone.

What if she claims that antidepressants don’t work? You can correct her.

This is where it gets complicated. She may be even more offended if it is pointed out that she is wrong.

Another option is to suggest that she consults a psychiatrist. This may cause more problems than it solves. You may get mad at her for suggesting this. Or, she may believe you are trying control her life.

So, what can you do now?

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