| Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid (EFA, also known as a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)) commonly derived from natural fish oil. Fatty acids are the basis of fats and oils, and, despite popular belief, are necessary for overall health. These fatty acids are termed "essential" because your body cannot manufacture them by itself, they are a component of every living cell in the body, and are necessary for rebuilding existing cells and the production of new cells. Chinese Herbs Direct Omega-3 capsules contain naturally-occuring Omega-3 fish oil which has been laboratory-tested to ensure the absence of potentially harmful levels of contaminants (i.e. mercury, heavy metals, PCB's, dioxins) which may occur in other fish oil products. Packaging: 100 1000mg softgel capsules Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 2 softgels 1-3 times daily with meals. Product Overview Over 30 years ago, a team of European researchers traveled to Greenland to study the spartan lifestyle of native Inuit Eskimos. One area of concentration involved the traditional Eskimo diet, consisting primarily of fatty fish: whale, salmon, sardine, seal, and mackerel. While we are conditioned in the West to think of all fats as bad, the researchers were surprised to discover that the Inuits had strong hearts, clear skin and powerful joints - all from a diet containing overwhelming amounts of fat. This fat-fueled lifestyle bewildered researchers until the connection was finally made. These fatty foods were loaded with substances that the body must have in order to remain healthy omega-3 essential fatty acids, or EFAs. After decades of further research and education, the general public is now benefiting from the same beneficial nutritional supplements responsible for the health of the Eskimos. We refer to essential fatty acids (EFA) as essential for a reason. They are vital to human health despite the body's inability to manufacture its own supply. For this reason, they must be obtained through the diet or supplementation. Fish oil contains two of the most biologically active fatty acids; EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexanoic acid) with the most common sources being deep-sea, cold-water fish. Thanks to a lifetime of oxidative stress, the body is in a constant state of self-repair. In order to do this, it needs a generous cache of healthy, unsaturated fats capable of constructing cell membranes that are elastic and functional. This makes it easier for the heart to return to a normal resting state. A deficiency in good fat forces the body to use saturated fat in the construction of new cells. As the body's reserve of saturated fat begins to outnumber the unsaturated, the cardiovascular process becomes more and more compromised. Omega-3 fish oil has become synonymous with cardiovascular integrity, and is supported by years of substantiated research. Many of these studies suggest that omega-3 plays a key role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, normalizing blood pressure range and supporting a healthy heart beat. It also serves as a natural blood thinner capable of preventing platelet aggregation; a condition where coronary blood flow becomes sticky and prone to clotting. Finally, fish oil has been shown to help boost HDL (good) cholesterol while lowering triglycerides within the normal range. In the fall of 2004, after reviewing years of convincing studies, the FDA approved the use of a qualified claim for omega-3 EFA. It states that "supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease". When you consider how selective the FDA is in qualifying health claims, this becomes even more impressive. Omega-3 fish oil has also been associated with the reduction of harmful stress and inflammation. A now famous Harvard study (Stoll et al., 1999) determined that individuals suffering from manic and mood disorders collectively exhibit low levels of EPA and DHA. During this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, nearly 75% of the subjects treated with omega-3 experienced relief from their symptoms. According to Dr. Stoll, "Our study results indicate that fish oil does possess the elements needed to stabilize mood." In addition, a growing number of individuals who live with stiff joints, inflammation and occasional aches are turning to omega-3 fish oil. Within the body, DHA and EPA compounds are converted into powerful anti-inflammatory agents known as prostaglandins. Many users have reported that supplementation has helped them reduce the frequency at which they consumed NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Product Details The Natural Fish Oil Concentrate used in this softgel is manufactured under strict quality control standards. It is screened for the absence of potentially harmful levels of contaminants (i.e. mercury, heavy metals, PCB's, dioxins, and other contaminants). This Fish Oil Concentrate is primarily derived from sardines, anchovies and mackerel. Primary Ingredients: Natural Fish Oil Concentrate, Omega-3 fatty acids, Eicosapentaenoic Acid, Docosahexaenoic Acid, Other Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Free of: salt, sugar, starch, yeast, wheat, gluten, corn, milk, egg or preservatives. Other Ingredients: Fish Oil Concentrate, Gelatin, Glycerin, Water, Natural Vitamin E. About the Manufacturer Chinese Herbs Direct's "Advanced Formula" line of premium-quality herbal supplements are based on proven herbal ingredients from around the world which have been formulated into potent and effective health products. These all-natural herbal formulas are distributed exclusively by Chinese Herbs Direct and are produced in the United States at established manufacturers adhering to GMP (Good Manufacturing Processes). The Chinese Herbs Direct Advanced Formula line offers only the highest-quality herbal ingredients at reasonable everyday prices. About the Manufacturer Chinese Herbs Direct's "Advanced Formula" line of premium-quality herbal supplements are based on proven herbal ingredients from around the world which have been formulated into potent and effective health products. These all-natural herbal formulas are distributed exclusively by Chinese Herbs Direct and are produced in the United States at established manufacturers adhering to GMP (Good Manufacturing Processes). The Chinese Herbs Direct Advanced Formula line offers only the highest-quality herbal ingredients at reasonable everyday prices. |