What is omega 3 and why do we need it?
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This is because there are limits to how rancid omega-3 supplements can be.
Independent tests carried out on supplements from 60 large retail brands found that nearly 50 percent were just under the maximum limit for rancidity.
Some of the fish oils tested were 11 times higher than the maximum recommended limit.
Producers of fish oils can normally mask the rancidity in their products with flavourings.
The reason why a fish oil goes rancid is down to the oxidisation of the product.
How much the product has oxidised will affect its rancidity and is how the rancidness of a fish oil is tested.
The more it’s oxidised the more rancid it will be.
However, the main question is whether rancid omega-3 or fish oils are harmful.
The data isn’t clear on this.
Some studies have found that they could have a negative impact on cholesterol levels and in tests on animals, high doses were found to be toxic.
More research is yet to be done on humans.
Until then rancid fish oil won’t be put on a metaphorical red list, but it will be less effective than a fresher supplement.
In the meantime, omega-3 fish oil supplements have benefits for your immune system.
Research has shown that they can lower blood pressure, slow the development of plaque in your arteries, reduce the likelihood of heart attack and stroke.
Furthermore, some studies suggest they can relieve some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
They can reduce morning stiffness, reduce pain and relieve joint tenderness.
The best way to get omega-3 fish oils into the body is not through supplements.
It is by eating oil fish.
Examples include salmon, mackerel, trout, pilchards, herring, and sardines.
Oily fish are also a good source of Vitamin D as well as omega 3.
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