| |
You're in luck!! Fish is recommended
because it is an excellent source of omega-3 oils, which help
fight heart disease, and also contain calcium, magnesium,
protein and B vitamins. If you happen to dislike fish, or
can't seem to get your kids to eat it, there are a couple
of alternatives that may work for you. Flaxseed and fish oil
both contain omega-3 oils in various forms. Flaxseed contains
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) which the body then converts to
EPA and DHA (which are responsible for many of omega-3's health
benefits). Fish oil capsules contain EPA and DHA directly,
which may be beneficial to individuals who have difficulties
converting ALA or have conditions that may benefit from direct
supplementation of EPA and DHA. Flaxseed can be purchased
in most health food stores and easily ground in a coffee grinder.
Flaxseed has a great nutty flavor (even kids will love it)
and can be added to cereal, salad, yogurt, etc. You can also
purchase flaxseed oil, which has concentrated Omega-3 oils,
and use it on salad (do not cook with flaxseed oil as it is
easily oxidized). Flaxseed oil does turn rancid easily, so
it must be kept in the refrigerator and discarded when the
expiration date has passed. If supplementing with fish oil
capsules it is important to make sure they are free from heavy
metals and toxins. Omega-3 oils have an effect on blood clotting
so special care should be taken by anyone taking anticoagulant
drugs.
|
