Description
Some practitioners prefer a balanced ratio of omega-3s from fish liver oil to omega-6s from evening primrose oil. That often means taking two products and/or difficulty in getting the right ratios. Nordic Naturals® has overcome those issues with their Balanced Omega™ Combination. This product is consistent in quality with all others from Nordic Naturals® in that it is:
• molecularly distilled for purity
• third-party tested for heavy metals, PCBs and pesticides
• freshness tested (peroxide value 0.2 meq/kg)
• flavored with a natural lemon oil
Essential Fatty Acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6 Compounds)
The word "essential" as used in describing omega-3 and omega-6 compounds means that the body cannot produce them on its own, so they must be consumed in our diet. Essential fatty acids are either omega-3 oils or omega-6 oils. Some sources of omega-3 are: cod liver oil, fish oils, flax oil, flaxseed, and leafy green vegetables. Some nuts also contain omega-3s (e.g., walnuts). Omega-6 sources are: corn oil, wheat germ oil, soy oil, borage oil, evening primrose oil, black current oil, plus many other cooking oils.
Almost all processed foods are very high in omega-6s. Essential fatty acids play critical roles in body structure and function. In fact, life cannot be sustained without them. Some are transformed to regulating compounds called prostaglandins in the body; these prostaglandins, along with essential fatty acids, are responsible for supporting the critical body functions listed below:
• nerve transmission
• pressure regulation in the eye, joints and blood vessels
• division of cells (growth and healing processes)
• response to pain, swelling and inflammation
• muscle reflexes
• oxygen transport from cells to tissues
• maintaining health of cell membranes
• supporting immune response
• providing energy to the heart muscle
Essential fatty acids are often called by their chemical names.
Omega-3 compounds are:
• EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
• DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
• alpha-linolenic acid
• alpha-linoleic acid
Omega-6 compounds are:
• linoleum acid
• gamma-linoleic acid
• gamma-linolenic acid
• arachidonic acid
The balance of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids
The latest scientific research has supported the view that essential fatty acids need to be in equilibrium in our diet. Omega-3 and omega-6 consumption should be balanced. It is generally recommended that omega-6 consumption should be about four times as much as omega-3. In addition, it is recommended by the medical community that saturated fat consumption should be limited. Saturated fats are found in butter, margarine and lard. All omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids are polyunsaturated.
Unfortunately, many individuals’ diets do not achieve those recommended balances. Most North American and Western diets are very low in omega-3 and extremely high in omega-6. Too many saturated fats are consumed, and the ratio of ingested EFAs averages more like 20:1 omega-6s to omega-3s instead of the recommended 4:1. This is due to the fact that poor quality cooking oils and most processed foods contain omega-6 oils. In addition, the overall consumption of omega-3 rich foods is often very low. Getting compliance with fish oil omega-3 type products is extremely difficult, especially in children. In some individuals, omega-3 consumption is totally lacking. Furthermore, in some geographical areas, individuals avoid fish due to industrial contaminants.
Kirkman® offers many different choices for essential fatty acid supplementation, from stabilized flaxseed to a variety of fish oil products. Cod liver oil is also a source of omega-3s, so also see that section on this website, as well. Kirkman® screens all of its products for environmental contaminants.
Ingredients: Evening primrose oil, purified deep sea fish oil (from anchovies and sardines), soft gel capsule (gelatin, water, glycerin, natural lemon oil), natural lemon oil, d-alpha tocopherol, rosemary extract. CONTAINS SOY.
*Exact nutrient content of Nordic Naturals fish based products will vary based upon the specific lot of fish used.
Free Of
Gluten, yeast, milk derivatives or artificial colors or flavors. Contains vitamin E derived from refined soybean oil, pork gelatin or pork.
Warnings:
Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight.
Do not take if tamper evident seal is broken or missing.
USE ONLY FOR CHILDREN 3 YEARS OLD AND OVER.
Consult with your physician before using this product
if you are allergic to iodine, use blood thinners,
or anticipate surgery.
Keep out of the reach of children.