Two of the world’s best-respected omega-3 researchers – William E. Lands, PhD and psychiatrist Joseph Hibbeln, MD – were part of a team from the US National Institutes of Health that set out to calculate the omega-3 intake needs of people in 13 countries, including America. The population studies performed drew strong connections between low intake of omega-3 fatty acids and increased risk of depression, anxiety, and related mood disorders.
The study showed that by contrast with the other countries, the average American’s diet is grossly imbalanced in favor of omega-6 fatty acids, which are concentrated:
* The vegetable oils most commonly used in homes and in packaged or restaurant foods (corn, canola, soy, safflower, sunflower)
* Butter
* Eggs (except high-omega-3 eggs from flaxseed-fed hens)
* Soy milk
* Poultry (especially fatty parts)
* Red meats (pork, lamb, and beef, except grass-fed beef)
This study shows that most Americans need to boost omega-3 intake to 3.5 gm per day to match Japan’s low rates of heart disease and depression.
This is just over the amount found in a 6-oz serving of King Salmon, Sardines, or Sablefish
The study was first to consider Americans’ excessive intake of metabolically competitive omega-6 fats. Cutting average omega-6 intake by 80 percent would drop the need for omega-3s to just 350 mg per day.
I already consume wild salmon at least 2 times/week in addition to 3,000mg of fish oil supplements. How about you?
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There are many products in the market that have fish oil capsules or liquid with lemon flavor. Other companies use special packaging so the taste of oil is not noticeable a few minutes after swallowing. Medical literature recommends a 2:1 ratio of omega 3 oils over omega 6. If you really cannot get into salmon or sardines eating, try flax seed which also contains omega 3 oils, it is not as effective as fish extracted but it is better than nothing.
February 11, 2009 - 1:39amThis Comment
I have tried for so many years (oh, about 15 years, at least!) to enjoy the taste of seafood or any type of fish. My favorite vacation spots are the beach. I love eating healthy food. It would be helpful in my diet and lifestyle. However..
I can not stand the taste of fish.
How can I increase my intake of Omega-3s, to have a better Omega-3 to Omega-6 ratio? Did this study say what exactly the ideal ratio is?
thanks!
February 10, 2009 - 3:42pmThis Comment