Little confused about Omega 3 fish oil. I started taking Omega 3 because I have chronic DES. It has helped me tremendously. I used to take Omega 3-6-9, but stopped because I heard that omega 6 is contraindicated in DES. I was told that omega 6 can actually cause inflammation. Why do they sell that as a supplement and can you help better explain the difference between the three. Thank you.
Optional Information: Person's Gender: Female Person's Age: 47
Hello,
I would like to help you with your question concerning Omega 3-6-9. The Omega 3 fats are the ones that are essential to health. These are found in the fish oil. As for the Omega 6 unsaturated fatty acids, there are many varieties of these. Most vegetable oils including canola, soybean, and corn oil are composed mostly of Omega 6 fatty acids. These types of oils are considered pro-inflammatory, and a number of different sources conclude that they should be removed from the diet. Omega 6 fats are also found in a variety of other foods and supplements. The Omega 3-6-9 supplements usually contain Borage Oil or Evening Primrose Oil as a source for the Omega 6 fatty acids. These sources are much healthier than the cooking oils and can be used therapeutically. The Omega 9 fatty acids in supplements usually come from flax seed oil. Taking flax seed oil has been a controversial topic lately. Some research indicates that flax seed oil intake is linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer in men. I believe that they sell these kinds of supplements because people have the mistaken idea that Omega 9 is healthy and they buy them. Dr. Zeoli
Experience: General practitioner with twelve years experience specializing in alternative medicine.