4 Omega 3 fish oil health gains and what your supplement should contain:

Is Omega 3 part of your supplement routine yet? There might not be the same buzz around Omega 3 as 'on-trend' supplements like magnesium and glutathione. But it's most definitely a must-have, with so many more benefits than the joint health it's traditionally been associated with. As well as keeping clicky knees at bay, Omega 3 fish oil could improve everything from cardiovascular and eye health, to brain function. It might even help turn back the clock and reduce the impact of age-related conditions such as dementia and osteoporosis, thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory effects.

Your body can't make omega 3. So unless you're a mega oily fish fan, eating 2-3 portions a week, it's unlikely you're getting enough. In fact, research has shown that adults in the UK and US have the lowest omega 3 levels in the world! So taking a supplement is a sensible decision for most of us.

But not all Omega 3 fish oil supplements are created equal, and there are some key ingredients you need to look out for. Read on to discover why our Omega-3 Plus patch is one of the most efficient and reliable ways to top up, the best natural sources of this vital nutrient, and just some of the omega 3 benefits you could enjoy.

What should your Omega 3 fish oil supplement contain and why?

There are three essential omega 3 fatty acids you need to take to reap the most health benefits. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). All of these can be found in our handy Omega 3 Plus patch in addition to Omega 6 and lots of other anti-inflammatory detoxifying goodies like phosphatidylcholine and Co-enzyme Q-10.

Lots of oral Omega 3 fish oil supplements include ingredients like ethyl esters. These aren't ideal because your body doesn't absorb them as well as other types of omega 3. When you use a patch, the nutrients are delivered directly into your bloodstream via the skin. So there's no need to worry about malabsorption of all that fishy goodness. And you won't be wasting your money on something that you won't feel the benefit from.

Using a patch also avoids the unpleasant strong fishy aftertaste you might experience with many oral Omega 3 fish oil supplements. Let's face it – no one likes fishy burps!

How else can you support your omega 3 levels? 

Love fish? You're in luck! A diet rich in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines is proven to provide the most fatty acids. However, if you're vegan or veggie, don't panic, there are other ways you can top up, without Omega 3 fish oil. Seaweed and algae are good plant-based sources of DHA, flaxseeds and chia seeds are rich in ALA, and hemp seeds and walnuts are packed with multiple types of fatty acids.

However, non-fish sources don't contain such a high concentration of omega 3, and it can be more difficult for your body to convert the omega 3 found in plants. So you will need to pay careful attention to your diet and ensure you're getting enough, a sprinkle of chia seeds every now and again won't cut it!  

What are the top 4 benefits of Omega 3 fish oil?

1. It supports brain health and could help reduce the risk of developing dementia:

Fed up with foggy thinking? Omega 3 might be the answer. Over 60% of the brain is made up of fat. The omega 3 fatty acid DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) makes up around 10-15% of this. Higher levels of omega 3 consumption are associated with having a larger hippocampus, a structure in the brain that plays a role in learning and memory. This suggests topping up your Omega 3 fish oil levels could help to both improve your reasoning and how well you remember things – bye brain fog!

Concerned about cognitive decline as you get older? Research has shown that omega 3 fatty acids have such a powerful anti-inflammatory effect on your cardiovascular and central nervous system, that they could help protect you from age-related brain problems like dementia. To learn about some other ways to mitigate the risks of developing dementia, try reading: 7 Need to Know Diet and Lifestyle Tips to Help Avoid Alzheimer's Disease.

Omega 3 fatty acids are also crucial for brain development. Children and babies need adequate levels of omega 3 DHA in particular, to ensure their sensory,  cognitive, and nerve systems develop properly during a brain growth spurt. The Kids Multivitamin Plus contains the optimum daily dose of omega 3 fish oils. Giving you peace of mind they're getting everything they need to grow up into a mega-mind!

2. Omega 3 fish oil can enhance your heart health

It’s also a must if you're worried about cardiovascular disease, because it can help to protect your heart. Omega 3 fish oil works by lowering triglycerides (fats that we need for energy, which can cause problems if we have too many), reducing blood pressure, and preventing plaque build up in your arteries. The omega 3 EPA is particularly associated with improved heart health. So make sure you choose a supplement that contains this specific omega 3, like our Omega 3 Plus patch.

3. It can help guard against osteoporosis:

Granny probably always told you that fish oil was good for the joints… But studies have shown Omega 3 fish oil can also improve your overall bone health too – and help reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis. These fabulous fatty acids work by reducing inflammation in your body, which can contribute to bone loss. Alongside regular exercise they can also help you to build bone density. With studies showing that women with a higher omega 3 intake have both greater bone density AND a lower risk of fractures.

4. Your skin and hair will look great

Constantly in search of the best way to get that 'glow'? Don't forget the Omega 3 fish oil! Not only has taking omega 3 been shown to improve and maintain skin hydration and elasticity, research also suggests it can help to soothe problem skin. A regular omega 3 supplement has been linked with reduced acne, redness, and irritation.

If hair health is an issue for you, omega 3s could help with this too. They work by nourishing hair follicles, preventing hair thinning, and promoting healthy hair growth. So you won't just feel amazing, you'll look your best too!

To discover even more Omega 3 fish oil benefits read our blog: 4 Surprising Benefits of Omega 3 here.