Q: A practitioner wrote in asking about the primary clinical difference between prescribing fish oil and vegetarian sources of omega-3 fatty acids. In light of recent trepidation about deriving nutrients from marine life, both clinicians and patients have this topic on their minds.
Here’s the Scoop:
While vegetarian sources of essential fatty acids are necessary for physiological development, DHA/EPA derived from marine-life is the only omega-3 fatty acid that can directly pass through the blood brain barrier (without being converted molecularly beforehand). Vegetarian sources do pass through, yet only after having gone through several conversion processes first.
Speaking Clinically?
I suggest a blend of essential fatty acids from both marine and vegetarian sources in general, yet for certain conditions, not only is a therapeutic dosage necessary, so too is the source. Consider a demyelinating concern such as MS for clinical instance. There’s no doubt in my mind which to prescribe as the primary therapeutic here-marine sources. Vegetarian sources are great and encouraged for maintenance dosages and other physiological concerns, yet the fastest therapeutic outcome will likely be seen as a reflection of the one that has the ability to molecularly pass through the barrier directly.
What About Recent Environmental Concerns Regarding Contamination?
You’ve probably noticed that nutriceutical companies are already marketing toward this recent concern by emphasizing the sale of their vegetarian formulas. So long as you’re prescribing essential fatty acids from companies that employ above average standards (such as independent assaying samples), your patients will be getting the same high quality omegas they have been. As more develops off the coast of Japan, updated information on the safety of marine-life will flow to us here.
Resources For Practitioners & Patients
- See how your favorite manufacturers rate before advising your patient’s choices with the Environmental Defense Fund’s complete list here.
- And if you practice clinical nutrition, take up your study with their Seafood Selector (app for your phone).
