What about Fish Oil Supplements?

No bueno either

Fish oil supplementation has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its many supposed health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and aiding brain function. However, despite its widespread use, many people may not realize that fish oil supplements can be difficult to absorb and may also become rancid.

One reason why fish oil supplements are not easily absorbed is due to their composition. Fish oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are essential nutrients that our bodies cannot produce on their own. EPA and DHA, which are omega-3 fatty acids, ARE essential nutrients for human health. These fatty acids are critical for proper brain function and development, and they also play important roles in other aspects of human health.

The brain is a highly complex organ that requires a constant supply of nutrients to function properly. EPA and DHA are two of the most important nutrients that the brain needs. These fatty acids help to maintain the structural integrity of brain cells and facilitate the communication between them. EPA and DHA are also involved in the synthesis and regulation of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that transmit signals between brain cells. As a result, a deficiency in EPA and DHA can lead to impaired cognitive function, memory loss, and mood disorders. (Think about the dramatic rise in neurodegenerative conditions in our society).

In addition to their role in brain function, EPA and DHA also have a number of other health benefits. For example, these fatty acids are known to reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can help to prevent a variety of chronic diseases. Studies have also shown that EPA and DHA can lower blood triglyceride levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve joint health.

Despite the many health benefits of EPA and DHA, most people do not consume enough of these nutrients. In fact, the average American diet is notoriously low in omega-3 fatty acids. Furthermore, the bioavailability of omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil supplements can be low, meaning that our bodies may not be able to absorb and utilize them effectively. This can be due to a number of factors, such as the quality of the supplement, the dosage, and individual differences in digestion and metabolism. The biggest factor is that fish oil supplements aren’t in the “sn-2” position.

The sn-2 position is important for omega-3 fatty acids because it affects their bioavailability and their ability to be metabolized by the body.

In the sn-2 position, omega-3 fatty acids are more stable and resistant to oxidation, which can reduce their effectiveness and even lead to harmful effects in the body. Additionally, omega-3s in the sn-2 position are more easily incorporated into cell membranes, which is important for their anti-inflammatory and other health-promoting effects.

While fish oil is a good source of omega-3s, it may not provide them in the optimal sn-2 position. The fatty acids in fish oil are typically in the sn-1 and sn-3 positions, which are less stable and less easily incorporated into cell membranes. This can make it more difficult for the body to utilize the omega-3s in fish oil and may reduce their effectiveness.

Another issue with fish oil supplementation is the potential for rancidity. Rancid fish oil has a strong odor and taste, and may also contain harmful compounds such as free radicals and peroxides. This can occur when the fish oil is exposed to air, light, and heat, which can cause the fatty acids to break down and become oxidized. It is important to store fish oil supplements properly, in a cool, dark place and away from sources of heat and light.

In conclusion, EPA and DHA are critical nutrients for human health, especially the brain. These fatty acids help to maintain brain function and development, reduce inflammation, and prevent chronic diseases. However, these fatty acids are highly susceptible to oxidation, which can occur during the extraction and processing of fish oil. While fish oil supplementation can provide many health benefits, it is important to be aware of the potential issues with absorption and rancidity. Oxidized fish oil is less effective and can even be harmful to consume, leading to oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

To ensure that you are getting enough EPA and DHA, it is recommended that you eat fatty fish at least twice per week. Examples of fatty fish include salmon, sardines, and herring. You can also do

Time to get more of what we need from food folks. We can do this!