"The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, in diet, and in the cause and the prevention of disease."

-Thomas A. Edison

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FISH OILS AND YOUR HEART

As the month of February rolls around again, many healthcare facilities are promoting heart health.  It’s a good idea since heart disease remains the #1 killer of Americans for yet another year, however too much of the talk centers around cholesterol.  As we discussed in our newsletter last year at this time, there’s more to it than your cholesterol levels.  To access that article (and others) on-line, go to our website at www.abcwellness-rehab.com.

Let’s concentrate on the benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids, of which fish oils are your best source.  By now you are probably aware there is an abundance of scientific evidence which suggests that increasing the intake of Omega-3 fish oils can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (heart attack).  But people invariably get confused as to what type to take and how much.  With all the varieties available – some are flavored with lemon or orange to reduce the fishy after-taste; some have a special “anti-burp coating” – sometimes it’s easier not to do anything at all.  Sadly, that is often times the case, and many miss the tremendous benefits this supplement can provide.

The following are some tips on how to choose a quality Omega-3 supplement:

1.    SELECT QUALITY MATERIALS.  As we’ve stated many times before in various newsletters, read your labels.  The label on the bottle will inform you of what’s in the supplement.  Supplements that are derived from sardines or anchovies are of inferior quality.  Cold water, fatty fish such as salmon and tuna are your best sources.

2.    WATCH OUT FOR ADDITIVES.  Sweeteners, dyes, and preservatives are sometimes added to supplements to market them as better tasting and to keep them on the shelf longer.  As a rule, the more “stuff” on the ingredient label, the more that “stuff” interferes with your body’s use of the nutrients.

3.    STAY AWAY FROM CERTAIN BRANDS.  Large retail companies and pharmaceutical chains sell for cheap. 240 capsules for $5 is a “Super Value” but you are wasting your money.  It costs money to produce a quality product, and in most cases you get what you pay for.

At this time you may be asking, “So how do I find a good fish oil supplement?”

At our office we can supply you with excellent quality supplements of all types, not just Omega-3’s.  Tuna Omega-3 oils from Standard Process, a company producing natural vitamin and herbal supplements for nearly eighty years, provide the best balance of DHA to EPA (the two primary constituents of these essential fatty acids). The fish are caught from the deep waters of the South Pacific and are tested for PCB’s, mercury, and other toxins.  Furthermore, since each person’s needs may be different, we can check patients for the specific amount their body requires as part of a holistic health care work-up.

Considering the benefits of fish oils, which also include proper brain development, anti-inflammatory effects, and support for emotional well-being (ADD and Depression), it’s time for a healthy change.

Dr. Nabzdyk is a holistic physician with over 17 years experience. He owns and operates ABC Wellness & Rehab, providing individualized nutritional coaching, acupuncture, and chiropractic, as well as hormonal and allergy testing. Call (815) 609-7735 for more information or visit us at www.abcwellness-rehab.com.

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