A-Z omega-3 fatty acids Articles

There is still little information on Wild Atlantic Herring Roe, but the information we do have, is good. Sementis, the trade/brand name for Atlantic Herring roe extract, contains large amounts of marine DNA. It is a powerful antioxidant that has several healing properties for both emotional and physical tiredness.

Top Known Health Benefits of Atlantic Herring Roe Extract

In particular, it has proven really effective in children (or adults for that matter) suffering from Attention Deficit Disorders (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHA). Which are terms that are used to describe patterns of behaviour such as inattentive, overly impulsive or in the terms of ADHA, hyperactive.

Recently, the product LTO3 which contains Atlantic Herring roe extract has gained in popularity for its mental health benefits. That's because it contains three key ingredients; L-Theanine (for reduction of stress and anxiety, and increased concentration), Scullcap (for nervousness, agitation and insomnia) and of course, Sementis, which is high in Omega-3/6. Sementis, or Atlantic Herring roe extract, contains 21-31% of marine DNA and has other nutrients, including vitamin C, zinc and selenium. It is said to be good for reducing risks associated with health disorders, like cancers, cardiovascular, inflammatory and immune system diseases. Why have marine DNA? It supports healthy cell regeneration.

Long Chain Vs Short Chain Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Herring, and herring roe are long sought after not just for their Omega-3 fatty acids, but for their long-chain Omega 3 fatty acids, which are great for brain development in babies and children, among others things you can read about here. Why are long chain Omega-3's better for your brain health? Because they are higher in DHA and EPA levels, and the brain requires the largest amount of Omega-3 fatty acids in the whole body. Seeing as they're not produced in the body, they have to come from another source. In fact, the brain is nearly 60% fat by weight, and a large percentage of this is DHA. Omega 3 fatty acids have also been shown to have an affinity for the central nervous system, helping to treat and prevent cognitive decline, protect memory, treat depression, bipolar disorder, ADD and schizophrenia. DHA is associated with improved brain function, while EPA is associated with mood balancing.

Where To Buy Quality Atlantic Herring Roe Extract

You can find these supplements at local or online health food stores. Make sure you purchase a reputable brand that doesn't add fillers or unnecessary ingredients to their formulas. You can find quality Atlantic herring roe supplements at NationalNutrition.ca.

Cod and halibut liver oils have been used as nutritional supplements for many years. These liver oils decrease inflammation, and thereby, prevent and treat heart disease. A component of the liver oil, EPA, is an important fatty acid in the maintenance of cardiovascular health and the regulation of inflammation. EPA is a precursor to a series of chemicals whose job it is to regulate the inflammatory effects of arachidonic acid.

Discover The Health Benefits of Cod & Halibut Liver Oil

Arachidonic acid causes inflammation in arteries and leads to the development of atherosclerotic plaques. Syndrome X conditions such as obesity, hypertension, insulin resistance, adult-onset diabetes and stroke are helped by cod/halibut liver oil. Fish liver oils contain the vitamins D and K which improve bone health by regulating the uptake of minerals in the intestine and modulating bone building.

Thus fish liver oils may help prevent and reverse rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. The essential fatty acid, DHA, in fish liver oils, is an essential component of the brain and central nervous system. It seems to concentrate in areas where there is lots of electrical activity, such as the synaptosomes, where nerve cells communicate, and the photoreceptors of the eye. This is why a deficiency of DHA can result in poor brain development, attention/deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disorders, memory problems and poor visual development. Topically applied, cod/halibut liver oil contributes to faster wound healing and improvement in skin quality due to its vitamin A content.

Key Nutrients Found in Cod & Halibut Liver Oil

These oils contain more vitamin A and more vitamin D per unit weight than any other common food. In addition, they contain 7 percent each of the essential omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, and small amounts of vitamin K. Some fish liver oil supplements are altered from their normal nutrient ratios to provide more or less of the above-mentioned nutrients. Children, and pregnant or nursing women, should use caution when using fish liver oils because of their fat-soluble vitamin content.

Cod & Halibut Liver Oil Supplement Varieties: Formats, Potency & More

Cod/halibut liver oil can be purchased as a liquid, flavoured liquid or soft gel capsule. All cod/halibut liver oil supplements in North America are tested for contaminants. Choose a reputable supplement because proper processing of the oil is important to prevent rancidity. Although it is not necessary, refrigerate liquid supplements and keep capsules away from heat to increase their shelf life.

How To Take Halibut Liver Oil & Potential Contraindications

The fat-soluble vitamins in fish liver oils are best absorbed with a meal that contains fat. Absorption of vitamins A, D and K is inhibited by some medications including antibiotics, antacids, steroids, laxatives, mineral oil and some cholesterol-lowering medications.

Docosahexanoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 essential fatty acid. It is an essential component of the brain and central nervous system. It seems to concentrate in areas where there is lots of electrical activity such as the synaptosomes, where nerve cells communicate, and the photoreceptors of the eye. This is why a deficiency of DHA can result in poor brain development, attention/deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disorders, memory problems and poor visual development. This is why DHA supplements are especially important in pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and children. Some infant formulas are now fortified with DHA because, in the past, the formula contained fewer essential fatty acids than breast milk.

Learn How To Increase Your DHA Intake

DHA can be taken in through the diet by eating fish or fish oil. The body can also convert alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), from vegetable sources like flaxseeds, into DHA. However, the standard North American diet is deficient in essential fatty acids, especially omega 3s and very few individuals have enough excess ALA to meet the body’s need for DHA. 

Explore The Different DHA Supplement Varieties

DHA supplements are usually made from tuna, salmon, herring, mackerel or sardines. These fish contain more omega-3-rich fat than other fish species. Cod liver and halibut liver oils also contain some omega 3s but are primarily used for their vitamin A and D content. Some newer fish liver oils have been fortified with DHA and may be an economical choice for those individuals taking both DHA and liver oils.

DHA supplements are found as liquid oil (processed to remove the fishy taste), soft gel chewables (flavoured) and standard soft gel capsules. Children favour DHA liquids and flavoured soft gel chewables. Fish liver oil supplements should be used cautiously in children, and pregnant and nursing women because of the toxicity of fat-soluble vitamins.

Shopping Tips For Buying Quality DHA Supplements

Ensure your fish oil supplement is not processed with heat because it damages the acids and creates free radicals. It is important to purchase a good quality DHA supplement that has been tested for contaminants. Refrigerate all liquid DHA supplements and keep capsules away from heat to increase shelf life. Using liquid DHA is much more cost-effective than capsules because numerous capsules must be taken to make an equivalent amount of liquid oil.

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an omega-3 essential fatty acid. It is an important fatty acid in the maintenance of cardiovascular health and the regulation of inflammation. EPA is a precursor to a series of chemicals whose job it is to regulate the inflammatory effects of arachidonic acid. 

Omega 3 EPA & Arachidonic Acid

As mentioned, EPA is a precursor to a series of chemicals whose job it is to regulate the inflammatory effects of arachidonic acid. Too much arachidonic acid leads to pain and inflammation in conditions such as arthritis. Arachidonic acid also causes inflammation in arteries and leads to the development of atherosclerotic plaques. Deficiency of EPA can result in cardiac arrhythmias, high cholesterol and excessive aging. EPA has been used to treat heart disease, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

Increasing Your Intake of EPA

Through Diet

EPA can be taken in through the diet by eating fish or fish oil. The body can also convert alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), from vegetable sources like flaxseeds, into EPA. However, the standard North American diet is deficient in essential fatty acids, especially omega 3s and very few individuals have enough excess ALA to meet the body’s need for EPA. 

Omega 3 EPA Supplements

Supplemental EPA is usually made from tuna, salmon, herring, mackerel or sardines. These fish contain more omega-3-rich fat than other fish species. Cod liver and halibut liver oils also contain some omega 3s but are primarily used for their vitamin A and D content. Some newer fish liver oils have been fortified with EPA and may be an economical choice for those individuals taking both EPA and liver oils.

EPA supplements are found as liquid oil (processed to remove the fishy taste), soft gel chewables (flavoured) and standard soft gel capsules. Fish liver oil supplements should be used cautiously in children, and pregnant and nursing women because of the toxicity of fat-soluble vitamins.

Key Shopping Tips When Buying EPA Supplements

Ensure your fish oil supplement is not processed with heat because it damages the acids and creates free radicals. It is important to purchase a good quality EPA supplement that has been tested for contaminants. Refrigerate all liquid EPA supplements and keep capsules away from heat to increase shelf life. Using liquid EPA is more cost-effective than capsules because numerous capsules must be taken to make an equivalent amount of liquid oil.

Not surprisingly, fish oil is made by extracting the oil from certain varieties of fish, so it can be purified for direct supplementation. The best fish oil supplements often use these fish sources: salmon, anchovy, sardine, and mackerel. 

There is an incredibly long list of health benefits attributed to fish oil. Most of the research showing the positive effects of omega-3 fatty acids in the diet comes from studies of either high-fish diets or fish oil supplementation. Fish oil has particularly been hailed for its mood-balancing ability and effects in the treatment of mental health conditions, likely due to its high EPA content.

Key Health Benefits of Fish Oil

Fish oil is considered the best source of omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA. Omega 3 fatty acids have shown benefits to the cardiovascular and immune systems and the brain and mental wellbeing. 

There has been very little research to see if other sources of omega-3 supplementation provide the same health benefits. In particular, it is only fish oil that is responsible for the mental health benefits of omega 3. Doses as low as 1g of combined EPA and DHA have been shown to help reduce and even eliminate conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, ADD, and bipolar disorder. It is the content of EPA that is especially associated with mood-balancing effects, while DHA is associated with proper mental function.

Fish Oil Source Varieties 

Fatty fish that are higher on the food chain (eg. Tuna) are generally not used as sources of supplemental fish oil due to the potentially higher concentration of toxins and heavy metals stored in their fat. Deep, cold water fish are the preferred source as they have the lowest levels of contaminants. Very often, supplement companies will give a list of possible fish sources for their oil with a note that oil contents will change with the seasons and with different availabilities of certain fish. Some companies will not list their fish sources at all for this reason. It is often a good idea to take a supplement with a known source so you can be confident of its nutritive and contaminant content.

Key Considerations When Selecting Fish Oil Supplements

The freshness of the fish used to make fish oil is extremely important. Fish that are not fresh create a "fishy" taste and can cause the production of oil that is more difficult to digest, causing the common complaints of "burping up fish" after supplementation. When fish oil is made from fresh fish and extracted properly, the fish taste should be very light and barely perceptible. Fresh fish oil is also less oxidized, and thus can provide more health benefits and will stay fresh longer. Taking a liquid fish oil instead of capsules can ensure that you know, and can taste the freshness of your supplement.

Fish Oil Extraction Methods

Fish oil can be extracted from the fish using a cold press, centrifuge or solvent extraction. Cold press extraction is the best method because the temperature is carefully controlled and the oil removed is less likely to be oxidized. Centrifugation uses the force of spinning the fish in a centrifuge to remove the fat. Centrifuges tend to heat up with the length of use required to extract the oil and this can cause oxidation, which damages the fish oil. Solvents can also be used to extract fish oil, but remnants may remain after processing and be present in your supplement. In general, cold pressing is considered the best possible means of extraction to keep the oil fresh and pure.

Understanding Dosing & Omega Content 

Dosage recommendations for omega-3 fatty acids vary depending on the disease process or overall goal. If your goal is to lower your triglyceride level, for instance, it is recommended you consume 3-4 g/day, whereas studies aimed at treating depression found that only 1 g of EPA/day showed better results than higher dosages of 2 and 3 grams. It is important to know that whatever dose you are recommended, you need to be sure your supplement contains the right stuff. On the bottle, you will see the total omega content, as well as the specific contents of DHA, EPA, etc. If you have been advised to take 2 g of EPA + DHA/day, make sure you are looking at the breakdown and that you are following these numbers, rather than looking at the "total omega" content.

Shopping Tips For Finding The Best Fish Oil Supplement

Fish oil supplements have become widely available, so it is very important to ensure that you are getting the best possible one. Use a trusted brand that lists the fish sources used, and clearly states the content of EPA and DHA. Most liquid capsules of fish oil cannot contain a large enough dose, such that to get the doses listed above, you may have to take anywhere from 6 – 20 caps a day. Taking a liquid can easily bypass this problem. Liquid fish oils come in a variety of flavours, making them quite simple to supplement. Doses are generally between 1tsp and 1Tbsp daily to achieve the desired EPA+DHA content.

What is Salmon Oil?

Salmon oil is a nutrient-rich marine oil prized for its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, which play a key role in supporting heart, brain, joint, and skin health. Sourced from cold-water salmon, this natural supplement provides EPA and DHA in forms the body readily absorbs. In this article, we explore what makes salmon oil unique, its health benefits, and how it fits into a balanced wellness routine.

Omega Benefits of Salmon Oil

Salmon oil contains EPA and DHA, two omega 3 essential fatty acids. EPA is an important fatty acid in the maintenance of cardiovascular health and the regulation of inflammation. EPA is a precursor to a series of chemicals whose job it is to regulate the inflammatory effects of arachidonic acid.

Too much arachidonic acid leads to pain and inflammation in conditions such as arthritis. Arachidonic acid also causes inflammation in arteries and leads to the development of atherosclerotic plaques.

EPA Benefits

Deficiency of EPA can result in cardiac arrhythmias, high cholesterol and excessive aging. EPA has been used to treat heart disease, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

DHA Benefits

DHA is an essential component of the brain and central nervous system. It seems to concentrate in areas where there is lots of electrical activity such as the synaptosomes, where nerve cells communicate, and the photoreceptors of the eye. This is why a deficiency of DHA can result in poor brain development, attention/deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disorders, memory problems and poor visual development. Fish oils may also offer protection against some forms of unhealthy cell growth.

Salmon Oil Supplement Varieties

Salmon contains more omega 3 rich fat than other fish species. Salmon supplements are usually found as standard soft gel capsules, containing 180 mg of EPA and 120mg of DHA per capsule. Some supplements, called pharmaceutical grade, contain up to twice as much EPA and DHA per capsule. Ensure your salmon oil supplement is not processed with heat because it damages the acids and creates free radicals. It is important to purchase a good quality fish oil supplement that has been tested for contaminants. Keep capsules away from heat to increase shelf life.

Shark oil, traditionally derived from the livers of deep-sea sharks, has been used for centuries in coastal cultures for its perceived health-supporting properties. Historically, Scandinavian and Japanese fishing communities valued shark liver oil as a folk remedy to promote resilience during harsh winters, support immune function, and enhance overall vitality. Today, it is available in capsule and liquid formats, continuing its legacy as a marine-based supplement rooted in traditional use while adapted for contemporary wellness practices.

Key Shark Oil Health Benefits

Shark liver oil is a supplement that contains alkylglycerols, squalamine and squalene. It has been added to lip balm and cosmetic products because squalene moisturizes prevent chapped skin and wrinkles. The alkylglycerols in this oil have been studied for their possible benefits against unhealthy cell growth and infections.

In Europe, this oil is widely used to support healthy cell turnover because the alkylglycerols in shark liver oil may prime the immune system, causing unhealthy cells to come under attack and preventing spread of disease. The oil may also fortify healthy cells and ease the harsh side effects of cancer chemotherapy and radiation treatments. This oil has been used traditionally to protect against, as well as speed the healing of, colds, flu, and various minor skin infections. It may also be helpful for asthma, arthritis, and the skin inflammations of psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

Shark Oil Supplements

Supplements are obtained from sharks caught off of Greenland, Norway, Sweden, and other coasts. The oil is available as a by-product of the commercial fishing industry; endangered sharks are not allowed to be killed solely for their oil. Some supplements are standardized to their alkylgylcerol content as a guarantee of their quality. It is important that supplement makers test and process the oil properly to remove potential toxins such as PCBs and mercury. Keep capsules away from heat because they can become rancid.

Cautions & Considerations

Mild digestive upset, including nausea, diarrhea, and indigestion, may occur, especially when you first start taking shark liver oil.

Tuna oil is gaining attention as a powerful source of omega-3 fatty acids that support heart, brain, and eye health. While many people are familiar with fish oil in general, tuna oil offers a concentrated form of DHA and EPA sourced specifically from tuna.

In this guide, we'll explore what tuna oil is, how it's made, its health benefits, and how you can increase your intake.

What is Tuna Oil?

Tuna oil is a marine oil derived from the tissues of tuna fish, commonly species such as Thunnus albacares (yellowfin tune) and Thunnus obesus (bigeye tuna). It is especially valued for its high concentration of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), one if the most imortant omega-3 fatty acids for brain and eye development.

This oil is typically extracted from cooked fish tissues using a purification process that separates the oil from protein and water. Modern manufacturing methods include molecular distillation to remove impurities, heavy metals, and environmental contaminants. High-quality supplements are tested for purity, oxidation levels, and potency to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Because tina oil naturally contains more DHA than many standard fish oils, it is frequentyl used in infant formulas and brain health formulations.

Tuna vs Fish Oils

A common question people ask is if tuna oil is better than fish oil. The tuna variety typically contains higher DHA levels, while standard fish oil often contains a more balanced EPA to DHA ratio. The best choice depends on your specific health goals and needs.

Health Benefits of Tuna Oil

Tuna is best known for its rich omega-3 content. These essential fatty acids provide several well-researched health benefits.

Heart Health Support

Tuna oil contains EPA and DHA, two omega 3 essential fatty acids that help maintain healthy triglyceride levels, supporting normal blood pressure and healthy circulation.

EPA is an important fatty acid in the maintenance of cardiovascular health and the regulation of inflammation. Deficiency of EPA can result in cardiac arrhythmias, high cholesterol and excessive aging. EPA has been used to treat heart disease, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

Reduces Inflammation

EPA is a precursor to a series of chemicals whose job it is to regulate the inflammatory effects of arachidonic acid. Too much arachidonic acid leads to pain and inflammation in conditions such as arthritis. Arachidonic acid also causes inflammation in arteries and leads to the development of atherosclerotic plaques.

Promotes Brain Function

DHA is an essential component of the brain and central nervous system. It seems to concentrate in areas where there is lots of electrical activity such as the synaptosomes, where nerve cells communicate, and the photoreceptors of the eye. This is why a deficiency of DHA can result in poor brain development, attention/deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disorders, memory problems and poor visual development.

Supports Eye Health

The retina contains high concentrations of DHA. Adequate intake may help maintain visual function and reduce the risk of age-related eye concerns.

Mood Balance

Emerging research suggests omega-3s may contribute to emotional well-being by supporting healthy neurotransmitter signaling.

Tuna Oil Supplements

Tuna oil supplements are available in softgels containing 180mg of EPA and 120mg of DHA per capsule, and liquid form. They are commonly used by people who want higher DHA levels compared to standard fish oil products.

When choosing tune oil supplements, consider the following:

• Look for third-party tested products to ensure purity and low heavy metal levels.
• Check the DHA and EPA content per serving.
• Choose products with added antioxidants like vitamin E to prevent oxidation.
• Store according to label instructions to maintain freshness.
• Ensure your supplement is not processed with heat as it can damage the acids and cause free radicals.

Another common concern is if tuna oil contains mercury. Reputable supplements undergo purcfication processes to remove mercury and other contaminants. Always select high-quality brands that provide testing transparency.

Side Effects and Considerations

Tuna oil is generally safe when taken at recommended doses. However, high intakes of omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding, especially for those taking anticoagulant medications. Mild side effects can include digestive upset or a fishy aftertaste.

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a bleeding disorder, or take prescription medications, consult a healthcare provider before starting these supplements. Choosing a purified, third-party tested product is essential to minimize potential exposure to contaminants.