Omega 3 – Facts vs Myths

Omega 3 also known as the super supplement for the endless health benefits that it offers. Proper omega 3 intake is vital for the body’s functioning and has to be obtained from external sources only, as the body cannot produce these on its own. One can obtain omega 3 either from dietary sources or from omega 3 capsules. 

The past few years have seen a rise in awareness about essential nutrients in the body and spiked the demand for health supplements. However, with unending information available on the internet, there are certain myths around this supplement. In this article, we will be debunking all these myths around omega 3.

1. All Omega 3 Supplements are Same

Fact: Each supplement is enriched with different quantities, and not all fish oil supplements are the same. It would be best if you also read the labels before taking an omega 3 supplement. The intake through supplements should be able to meet your daily dietary requirement. Also, ensure the supplement contents are fresh and not expired, as omega 3 fatty acids are prone to oxidation and can turn rancid, proving to be harmful to health.

2. All Omega 3 Sources are Equally Beneficial

Fact: Omega 3 fatty acids can be obtained either from Fatty fishes containing EPA and DHA or plant sources rich in ALA. Relying only on ALA-based foods for Omega 3 can cause various deficiencies as there isn’t much evidence that supports that ALA is as equally effective as EPA and DHA. Other than this, recent research has shown that the conversion rate of ALA into EPA and DHA is meagre and almost non-existent. This is the reason why medical experts recommend taking quality fish oil supplements or eating fatty fishes. 

3. Omega 3 Fatty Acids makes you Fat since they are fatty acids

Fact: The term ‘fat’ describes the group of substances that come from different molecular configurations that impact our health. Also, we do not gain weight by consuming fat. The number of calories we eat every day in proportion to the calories we burn each day affects how much fat we will retain. Researches suggest that intake of omega 3 fatty acids help in reducing the appetite and prevent overeating. These fatty acids help balance the calorie intake and improve the metabolism, and hence helps in burning more calories. Some studies also suggest that omega 3 supplements also help improve the quality and performance during the workout by improving stamina. 

4. Omega 3 is only required for Healthy Heart

Fact: Yes, Omega 3 is essential for heart health, but it also supports various body functions. Omega 3 is vital for proper mental health and brain function. Consuming Omega 3 regularly, can promote serotonin release, which improves decision making and helps uplift the mood. Omega 3 supplements are recommended to treat dry eyes and for improving vision. An optimum intake of omega 3 results in an improved bone mineral density and prevents cartilage destruction. Other than this, omega 3 has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps soothing redness and irritation of the skin. Omega 3 also aids in fetal development and is essential in the child’s early growth and development. Also, they help with weight management, as fish oil capsules reduce appetite and diminish liver fat, thus, supporting the weight loss process.

5. Omega 3 can be obtained from eating any fish

Fact: Large Fish at the top of the food chain, such as king mackerel and shark, contain high levels of mercury and may cause harm to the nervous system or unborn baby. Thus, it is advisable to eat smaller fatty fishes like sardines, salmon, herring, etc. This makes it essential to check the source of the supplements and make sure that they are sourced from small fishes. Salmon, mackerel, sardines and herring contain the highest amounts of EPA and DHA to load up weekly omega 3 requirements.

6. Fish Supplements tastes like Fish

Fact: Fish supplements do not have a fishy taste, as they are in concentrated form and often come in a soft gel form that is generally tasteless and are easy to swallow. Also, you will not have a fishy aftertaste post consuming the supplement, which is the concern of many people. One can always check the freshness of the supplements with their smell. Fresh supplements would not have any fishy smell and are good to consume. 

We hope we solved all the myths that you might have come across over the internet. TrueBasics Ultra Omega 3 contains Omega 3 sourced from delicate quality sardines to meet your daily requirements of EPA and DHA. The supplement is clinically tested and scientifically formulated to remove mercury from the sourced fishes.