Omega 3 ?????

[SarahH]

Would really like peoples opinion on whether to take Omega 3 supplement or not.

What are the benefits?

Which is the best?

Are there side effects?

I read somewhere recently that stated unless you take a big dose it has no use at all.

Anyone:D

[AnxiousBaker]

For some people it has real obvious benefits for others maybe not so much. Although it is good for you.
I take a brand called MoreEPA by minami Nutrition. 85% high strength formula. It is a tad expensive but worth it. I buy off Amazon.
Its as pure as its going to be, seven seas etc are ok but this is far better.
No side effects for me.

[SarahH]

Thank you,

but what are the benefits for anxiety sufferers?

[hanshan]

I don't take it myself, but there are reports from various people that it helps to reduce their anxiety, and one study from Ohio University which found that Omega 3 supplements reduced anxiety among healthy medical students by 20%.

The theory is that stress is related to anxiety through an inflammatory process, and Omega 3 helps reduce inflammation.

A 20% reduction in anxiety may not really be noticeable, but it wouldn't hurt to try it. With all these things, some people respond better than others.

(Aspirin is also an anti-inflammatory, and in one experiment it reduced anxiety-like behaviour in rats. I take an aspirin tablet each day for its heart benefits. I don't notice any particular effects on anxiety, but then I'm also taking pregabalin and mirtazapine. It must be noted, however, that aspirin can cause gastric irritation and bleeding in susceptible people.)

[Magic]

I take aspirin have taken it for about twelve years for the same reason as hanshan.
It does not help me at all with my anxiety or arthritis.

I eat oily fish which contains omega 3 when ever I fancy it.

I don't think there is any side effects with taking a supplement.
I have heard it say that the B complex vitamins are good for anxiety.
I have taken many sorts of vitamins over the years and spent a lot
of money. It's trial and error really.

[SarahH]

Well weirdly I took a VERY expensive Omega 3 for a week and my anxiety was worse....now I have stopped and it is reduced.

Sarah

[hanshan]

I'd have to say that you need more than a week to establish a cause and effect relationship.

Otherwise, you're saying that fish oil causes anxiety.

[SarahH]

mmmmmm....well I see your point Hanshan and you are probably right. I am very sensitive to ANYthing but of course it could have been psychosomatic (!). I took Omega 3 years ago and it had the same affect. It could be that it makes my anxiety worse rather than "causing" it.

Who knows:) but I have a £24 bottle of it in my fridge going to waste:mad:

Sarah