Over the past couple of decades, omega-3 fatty acids have gained popularity as a natural health supplement to support men’s health. Well known for cardioprotective properties, the fatty acids EPA and DHA (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid) from fish oil deliver several health benefits.

There’s no denying the research that supports the use of omega-3’s for better health.

Fish oils may increase circulation, reduce inflammation, and decrease blood triglyceride levels.¹ Omega’s are often recommended by healthcare professionals for chronic pain, skin conditions, anxiety and depression. Omega-3 supplements may also be recommended for erectile dysfunction (ED) along with other healthy lifestyle modifications.²

As you can see, there’s a long list of potential health benefits.

Today, I’m giving you plenty of reasons to consider taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements daily. And if you’re already taking them, I’ll provide you with reasons to keep taking them.

You may already know that the human body can’t make omega-3’s. These essential fatty acids (EFAs) can only be obtained from food or supplements.

Many people turn to supplements since the typical modern day diet lacks omega-3 rich foods.

What would happen if we ate like our ancestors did and consumed a diet mostly of fatty fish, lean protein, and vegetables?

Would we still have such high rates of inflammation which can lead to cardiovascular disease and diabetes?³

The average North American diet is nothing like the hunter-gatherer diet. While many Canadians are invested in getting healthier, others are consuming too many inflammatory foods that are high in refined sugars and unhealthy fats.

Most would agree that Canadians need to consume more anti-inflammatory foods such as fatty fish, green leafy vegetables (e.g. kale and spinach), and nuts/seeds.

Although the richest food source of omega-3 fatty acids is fish, there’s a catch.

Our waters are heavily polluted and fish such as salmon can be contaminated with environmental toxins. Large fish like tuna tend to contain higher amounts of mercury, so you may want to hold off on eating canned tuna after training at the gym.

Opt for a healthier post-workout snack such as a protein shake, protein bites, or anchovies/sardines. Smaller, younger fish are a better choice since they carry fewer toxins.

Taking an omega-3 supplement may help you meet your daily omega-3 needs and keep your energy levels up.

Here are 3 key features to look for when shopping for fish oil supplements.

1. Enteric coated fish oil capsules with the added digestive enzyme lipase can enhance the digestion of fat and improve absorption.

The best part?

Investing in a fish oil supplement that contains lipase will help to reduce fishy burps and any unpleasant fishy aftertaste.

2. Third party tested fish oils are free of impurities.

Do you see IFOS on the package? IFOS stands for International Fish Oil Standards.

Seeing this seal on the package indicates that the omega-3 fatty acid supplement has been tested and has met or exceeded international standards.

3. Dosing matters. When it comes to dosing, healthcare professionals often recommend between 1000mg-3000mg per day depending on the health condition being addressed.

Men with more risk factors for heart disease are often given a higher dose. Athletes and those seeking nutritional support for neurological disorders are also candidates for the upper intake level.

Lastly, if you’re a vegetarian or avoid pork or beef for religious reasons, make sure the gelatin capsules are derived from fish. Many people are surprised to learn that fish oil capsules are sometimes made with beef or pork gelatin.

While some men meet their omega-3 needs with foods like fatty fish (two or more servings per week), others opt for a high quality omega-3 supplement. There are plenty of benefits that come with taking a purified supplement. Not only are the omegas free from environmental contaminants (e.g. mercury, PCBs, and dioxins), you know exactly how much EPA and DHA you’re getting.

Without question, there’s an ocean of reasons to eat omega-rich foods and take omega-3 supplements.

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Renew Life’s Norwegian Gold Ultra EPA supports cardiovascular health and helps to reduce serum triglycerides. It also contains the digestive enzyme lipase to help ensure no ‘fishy burps’ or unpleasant aftertaste. Norwegian Gold Ultra EPA provides 1212 mg of omega-3 fatty acids in each capsule.

Renew Life’s Cerebrum is a unique fish oil formulation that provides a daily source of omega-3 fatty acids PLUS 200mg of Cereboost (American Ginseng Root). It contains 540mg of DHA and 27mg of EPA per capsule that can help support cognitive health and brain function.

References:

1. https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-003-x/2015011/article/14242-eng.htm
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22072232
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3578702/

About the Author: Renew Life Team

Our team of Digestive Care experts is committed to empowering Canadians to achieve optimal health every day. Since 2002, the Renew Life Team has been dedicated to educating the public about digestive health, cleansing, nutrition, and well-being. As leaders in the natural health field, we go the extra mile to ensure we are delivering valuable resources and helpful information to inspire better health and well-being for your entire family. Learn more at renewlife.ca.