Excerpt from Dr. Ben’s Health Newsletter Volume 03

You probably have noticed that one cannot open a health magazine, watch a health program or talk to a cardiologist and not hear about the health benefits of the Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). The positive impact of EPA and DHA in health is without question. In fact, there is such resounding agreement between the medical and nutritional communities on the role and need for the Omega-3 nutrient group, that daily supplementation is now being recommended by multiple nationally recognized health organizations, including the American Heart Association (AHA).

The Omega-3 EFAs, especially EPA and DHA, have been conclusively shown to promote health in multiple body areas. These include cardiovascular (heart), neurologic (brain), immune, vision, joint and weight systems.* The research is so impressive the American Heart Association recommends the daily intake of 1,000 mg of Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids, primarily in the form of EPA and DHA, for cardiovascular health. In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a health claim for the reduction of the risk of developing cardiovascular disease for products containing a threshold amount of Omega-3s.†

EPA(eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are the “Most Valuable Players” of the Omega-3 Team. They are the two most active and potent Omega-3s. Numerous research studies have been performed demonstrating their health-promoting properties and their superiority to other Omega-3s.*

I am often asked where EPA and DHA come from, and the answer is they are only found in marine (fish) sources. Although there are other Omega-3s that come from vegetable sources (like flax seed), the fatty acids found in vegetable sources needs to be converted by the body to EPA and DHA. Unfortunately, the conversion rate to EPA and DHA from “upstream” vegetable sourced Omega-3s is low – less than 10%. Therefore, most nutritional experts and doctors recommend supplements that contain DHA and EPA over those that contain vegetable sourced Omega-3s.

So, does everyone need the Omega-3s EPA and DHA? Yes! First, these substances are classified as Essential Fatty Acids because the body does not make them AND because they play a critical role in the normal functioning processes of the body.* The body relies on the diet to obtain these vital substances. However, unless one is eating several servings of fish per week, one is likely not receiving enough Omega-3 EFAs, especially DHA and EPA. Although eating fish is a way to obtain EPA and DHA in food, one needs to be mindful of the potential for environmental contaminants – such as mercury. That is why many individuals turn to using purified and tested EPA and DHA supplements versus eating several servings of fish. In addition, while many foods advertise to be fortified with Omega-3s, these are vegetable sourced Omega-3s, NOT marine sourced. Therefore, they do not contain EPA and DHA. Due to their lack in the diet, low conversion from precursors and the tremendous role they play in body health, the vast majority of individuals should be supplementing with EPA and DHA Omega-3s.

When supplementing, be sure to calculate the actual EPA and DHA content, not just the total Omega-3 amount. A desired level of EPA + DHA is 1,000 mg, daily. Unfortunately, some products have a large amount of total Omega- 3s, but are low in EPA and DHA. Also, be sure to look for a product that has heavy metal and contaminant testing performed – this is a must! Another consideration is that many multivitamin/mineral dietary supplements do not contain Essential Fatty Acids in their formulations or they are found at a very low amount. Therefore, I recommend individuals consume a separate EPA and DHA Omega-3 supplement aside from their daily multivitamin.

If you are not consuming an appropriate amount of Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids (in particular EPA and DHA), your body is truly missing essential substances required for health and normal function. Without these, you are setting a barrier to your own health. Fortunately, through either very selective dietary foods or with appropriate supplementation, you can easily achieve the recommended amounts.

I would highly encourage you to visit with your personal health care provider regarding the role EPA and DHA Omega-3s play in health. In particular, I would ask them about the GISSI-Prevenzione cardiovascular clinical trial that had 11,000 patients enrolled – the results were tremendous. And, as always, be sure to show any supplement you are considering to your qualified personal health care provider before starting.

In closing, I would simply like everyone to know how passionately I believe in the daily use of EPA and DHA Omega-3s. The strength of the scientific evidence is overwhelming. Not a day goes by where I (or my family) do not supplement with these two substances. I am firmly convinced they can tremendously impact health in a very positive manner.

Warmest regards,
Dr. Ben

Use this link for more info and ordering:
Eniva EFACOR Omega 3

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