Omega 3 Fish Oil

[Questions & Answers]

What is the difference between fish oils and cod liver oil?

The oil obtained from the flesh of oily fish is an excellent source of Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). It is EPA and DHA which are believed to exert the beneficial effect attributed to fish oils.

By comparison cod liver oil contains lesser amounts of EPA and DHA, but is a rich source of vitamin A and D.

Why should I take your Omega-3 fish oil?

Omega-3 fish oil is a source of EPA and DHA, which can be taken on a daily basis, particularly by those who do not like oily fish. This product also provides vitamin E.

Wassen Omega-3 fish oil is contained in a small easy to swallow capsule. Two capsules per day supply 700 mg of fish oil providing 98 mg of EPA and 70 mg DHA with an additional 20 mg of vitamin E.

What exactly are EPA and DHA?

Omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish, flaxseed, pumpkin seed and walnuts, need to be obtained from the diet as the body cannot manufacture them.

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) form part of the human tissue but is found in higher concentration in active human tissues such as brain cells, the nervous system, retina, inner ear, adrenal and sex glands.

DHA is the main polyunsaturate in the thinking part of the brain and is believed to be particularly important for vision. EPA is thought to be more involved with the maintenance of a healthy blood fat balance. Inflammatory processes, may be aggravated where a deficiency of EPA may be present.

Who would most benefit from a fish oil product?

Those who do not regularly consume oily fish, as part of their diet. Anyone who would like to support their immune, eye and cardiovascular health.

How may fish oil be beneficial to my joints?

Inflammation often seems to accompany joint conditions. By obtaining sufficient levels of EPA and DHA from dietary sources certain processes that are involved in inflammation may be influenced and the outcome ameliorated.

How may fish oil be beneficial to my cardiovascular system?

A number of factors involved in cardiovascular health may be influenced if sufficient levels of EPA are obtained from the diet. These may include a decreased tendency for the blood to clot, a reduction of 'triglyceride' blood fats and a mild tendency to reduce blood pressure.

Of course a healthy diet should always be accompanied by a healthy lifestyle. Those that are on medication for heart problems should consult their doctor prior to taking any fish oil supplements to ensure they are suitable.

Can I take fish oil if I am planning pregnancy, if I am pregnant or breast feeding?

Whilst all ingredients found in the Wassen Omega-3 Fish Oil are deemed safe for food supplements, which are classed as a food, we always recommend that those planning pregnancy, who are pregnant or breast-feeding consult their doctor prior to taking any food supplements.

Technically, this product should be safe during pregnancy.

How long will it take before I notice a benefit? Is it suitable to take Omega-3 fish oil on a long-term basis?

As with most food supplements it may take 4-8 weeks before an effect is noted. Our Omega-3 Fish Oil has been formulated to make it suitable for long-term use.

Can I take Omega-3 fish oil with other food supplement products?

If you are taking other food supplements please ensure that the daily maximum safety limit for the active ingredients of the products is not exceeded.

Click here to view advice on upper safe levels for supplementation of vitamins and minerals.

When is the best time to take fish oil?

We recommend that the best time to take Omega-3 Fish Oil is with a meal, preferable with dinner.

Are there any side-effects with fish oil?

This product is generally well tolerated and if the product is taken with food should not cause any gastro-intestinal problems, sometimes associated with fatty foods.

As with any food, there is always a possibility that individuals may have a sensitivity to one or more ingredients contained in the product. We always recommend that in the event of any unusual symptoms being noted upon taking our products they should be discontinued and if necessary a doctor consulted to rule out any other cause for the symptoms.

I have a sensitivity to yeast, is this product suitable for me?

This product is completely free from yeast.

I am allergic to gluten, can I still take Omega-3 Fish Oil?

This product is free from gluten and should be suitable for coeliacs.

I am allergic to dairy products, can I still take Omega-3 Fish Oil?

Wassen Omega-3 Fish Oil is completely free from dairy products.

What are good food sources of vitamin EPA and DHA?

Oily fish, flax seed oil, walnuts. (The vegetable sources need to be converted to EPA and DHA in the body from alpha linolenic acid, a process not believed to be very efficient even in fit, well-nourished people).