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Making Sure Your Loved Ones Are Healthy This Spring 1 Never Judge a Dog by Her Size Success Stories Have You Heard the Good News? 2 Roasted Radishes With Radish Greens Learning the Signs to Get the Help Your Child Needs 3 The Many Wonders of Omega-3s 4
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THE MANY WONDERS OF OMEGA-3S
One Little Pill That Can
Do Your Body Good
Because fish oil is said to improve everything fromheart health to chronic dry eye, it may sound a bit like, well, snake oil. But this brilliant little supplement packs a big punch, especially for older adults.
cognitive recovery in extremely elderly subjects who already suffer fromdementia, evidence indicates that taking fish oil on a regular basis may prevent or postpone the onset of cognitive decline. Omega-3 consumptionmay also improve the quality of life for individuals suffering fromdepression or anxiety at any age. Which Omega-3 Supplement Is Right for Me? If you eat fatty fish several times a week every week, youmay already get enough omega-3s, but it can be difficult to get a therapeutic dose of fish oil from food alone on a regular basis. A fish oil supplement can provide additional fatty acids. Look for an ingredient list that specifically shows EPA and DHA; some brands use misleading labeling that only shows the total amount of fish oil rather than the actual omega-3s. Recommendations vary, but most sources indicate that a dosage of 1,000–2,000 milligrams (1–2 grams) of combined EPA and DHA provides benefits. If the smell or “fish burps” bother you, choose enteric-coated capsules, which dissolve in the small intestine rather than the stomach. Omega-3 caps also come in vegan options sourced from seaweed and algae.
Heart Health Benefits The omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and
eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) have been shown to support heart health inmultiple ways. The Mayo Clinic cites research suggesting that higher levels of EPA are associated with a reduced risk of congestive heart failure in older adults. Studies also report that people withmoderate to severe hypertension typically see a positive effect on their blood pressure if they regularly take omega-3s. Joint and Eye Benefits Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with osteoarthritis and other joint disorders by lubricating the joints and acting as an anti-inflammatory. As we age, our ability to produce tears diminishes. Fish oil’s lubricating and anti-inflammatory properties also make it a great treatment for and defense against chronic dry eye. Cognitive Function Benefits Several studies have concluded that regularly consuming omega-3 fatty acids can helpmaintain cognitive function. While research shows no
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