The human body requires certain types of fatty acids that it cannot manufacture or substitute on its own. Since we need these outsourced elements for good health, they are termed essential fatty acids, or EFAs. Most diets lack a certain set of EFAs called omega-3 fatty acids. Those who eat cold-water fish, leafy vegetables and certain nuts and seeds may have enough omega-3 fatty acids to keep their body functioning properly. However, most people use supplements to consistently receive the EFAs they need. Two great sources include fish oils and flaxseed oil.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil include EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Take caution against using just any fish oil product on the market. Like most mass-produced items, cheap supplements lack quality, may not deliver the needed EFAs and could actually contain dangerous compounds such as mercury or other toxic metals. Some supplement companies take extra precautions to preserve the ocean waters where they harvest the fish oils. For example, some of the best fish oils come from Scandinavian waters, where these companies adhere to higher standards than most governments require.
Those who need omega-3 supplements may gravitate to flaxseed oil, since this renewable product works near-miracles for heart conditions, cancer, feminine issues, nervous disorders and almost every major system of the body. Flaxseed oil not only presents a readily available source of omega-3 fatty acids, but also coats each cell, providing a defense barrier against viruses, bacteria and other invaders. Children with attention and behavior disorders have shown remarkable improvement with the steady use of flaxseed oil.
One advantage that flax has over fish oil as a source of EFAs is the taste. Some users complain fish oil (usually taken in capsules) leaves them with distasteful, fishy burps hours after swallowing. Flaxseed oil, however, has a smooth flavor suitable for mixing in yogurt, salads or with garlic as a dip or spread. Flaxseeds also mix well with hot cereals or with virtually any grain.