Omega-3's are vital for maintaining optimal health.
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The health promoting effects of Omega-3 fatty acids are well supported in over 8,000 research studies.
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Two of the most popular Omega-3’s, Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) prevalent in fish oil, are essential for normal growth and development.
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In particular fish oil has been shown to support brain function, maintain the heart, support bones, joints and the body’s natural immune defences.
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Modern "convenience" diets do not provide us with enough Omega-3's.
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In fact most research studies estimate we are getting only 40% of the suggested daily intake required to maintain good health.
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These findings are of particular concern among children, where Omega-3 levels may be as low as 20% of the suggested daily intake.
What are the best sources of Omega-3?
EPA and DHA are only found in significant quantities in marine life, particularly from deep-sea coldwater fish and shell fish. Unfortunately you would need to consume over a kilogram of fish every day inorder to get the recommended intake of EPA and DHA.
How much Omega-3 is good for us?
There are various levels given by government and research groups alike as to the recommended daily intake of Omega-3s to maintain normal health. Comvita believes the table below is a fair representation of your daily EPA and DHA requirements:
Recommended daily intake of EPA+DHA for maintaining health:
- Children require 500mg of EPA+DHA per day.
- Adults require at least 500mg of EPA+DHA per day.
- Adults with pre-existing cardiovascular disease require at least 1000mg of EPA+DHA per day.
- Pregnant Women require at least 200mg DHA per day.
- Breastfeeding Women: to enrich breast milk for your infant, consume 900mg DHA per day.
Reference: Omega-3 Centre; through the lifecycle www.Omega-3centre.com
It is unlikely you could get these levels from diet alone. This makes Omega-3 one of the first dietary supplements to be endorsed by most major health organisations.