OMEGA-3
FLAX SEED OIL and FISH OIL

Omega-3 EFA are a main component of all cell membranes and the brain and nerves can not function normally without them. Omega-3 EFA help control cholesterol levels in the body and can be used to treat many inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids are required for the production of the Prostaglandin-3 family of compounds (PGF-3). Use the EFA Site Map to see more information on "Prostaglandins."
There are two commonly used supplements for Omega-3 EFA. It is helpful to understand the differences between the them.

1. Flax Seed Oil
2. Fish Oil

FLAX SEED OIL provides Alpha-Linoleic Acid (ALA). By itself, ALA is an Omega-3 essential fatty acid. Also, it can be considered the parent of the "Omega-3 family" because it can be converted by the liver into EPA and DHA, two other O-3 fatty acids.

However, because some patients have a decreased ability to convert the "parent " into the "children", taking Flax Seed Oil does not automatically ensure you will also have enough of the "children."

FISH OIL provides the "DHA and EPA" - EPA (eisocapentanoic acid) and DHA (docosahexanoic acid). However, because neither of these can be converted back into their parent, taking Fish Oil does not ensure you will have enough ALA.

EPA is critical for function of cell membranes and myelin and prostaglandin production. It also plays an important role in cardiovascular health. DHA is required for normal brain and nerve function.