The Amazing Health Benefits of Krill Oil

There has been much research published over the last few years about a supplement called Krill Oil. I had never even heard of it until about 6 months ago when I was Googling ways I could naturally lower my cholesterol and improve a bit of mental fog I was experiencing. After spending what seemed like too many nights reading scientific journals about it I decided to just give it a try. It's been 4 months now and I'm extremely surprised at how effective it's been (more about that at the end of the article). But first, what are Krill?

Krill are little crustaceans that look like shrimp and provide food for everything from salmon to blue whales and are one of the most nutritious creatures in the sea. Not only are they loaded with a powerful antioxidant called Astaxanthin, but they're a great source of omega-3 fatty acids which for years research has shown to help lower an individual's risk for heart attack, stroke, certain cancers, depression and overall inflammation. The oil is naturally found in a species called the Euphausia Superba and is extracted and sold as a nutritional supplement.

There has been a lot of research showing krill oil to be superior to fish oil in head-to-head testing. It has found to be healthier, safer, and more potent.

Krill Oil vs Fish Oil

The reason krill oil is more effective than other marine oils is the amount of omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids and extremely potent antioxidants. It's the unique combination of these essential ingredients that provide the greatest health benefits.

Krill, like fish oil, contains both of the omega-3 fats Eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexanoic acid (DHA), but hooked together in a different form. In fish oil these omega-3 fatty acids are found in the triglyceride form whereas in krill oil they are hooked up in a double chain Phospholipid structure (The fats in our own cell walls are in this Phospholipid form). Attached to the EPA leg of the phospholipid is a molecule of astaxanthin, an extremely potent antioxidant. The phospholipid structure of the EPA and DHA in krill oil makes them much more absorbable and allows for a much easier entrance into the mitochondria and the cellular nucleus - especially a better absorption and delivery of DHA to the brain. In addition to EPA and DHA it contains a complex phospholipid profile including phosphatidylcholine, a potent source of reductive-stress-reducing choline. Research indicates that phospholipid omega-3 fatty acids (found in krill oil) have greater bioavailability for cell growth and functioning, compared with omega-3 triglycerides (found in fish oil).

Here are 10 Reasons to take krill oil-

1. A Powerful Antioxidant

Krill oil contains vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin D and astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant. When compared to fish oil in terms of ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) values it was found to be 48 times more potent than fish oil. Antioxidants are important as they protect our cells from damage from free radicals - unstable substances that contribute to certain chronic diseases. Unlike many other antioxidants, krill's astaxanthin crosses the blood-brain barrier where it can protect the eye, brain and central nervous system from free radical damage.

2. Protects Your Heart

Results from a study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition reported that krill oil can significantly reduce heart-damaging inflammation. The study was conducted by measuring the presence of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels in the blood. One way to measure the risk of heart damage is to examine the amount of the body's CRP levels. The group that had been taking 300 mg of krill oil daily reduced their CRP levels by 19.3% after seven days and 29.7% after 14 days.

3. Reduces Inflammation and Arthritis Pain

Low levels of omega 3 in the body lead to inflammation, which further leads to other diseases. Krill oil has several anti-inflammatory properties. That means that a regular dose can reduce general joint pains, back pain, swelling and inflammatory arthritis. There have also been a number of studies conducted that found that krill was effective in reliving some of the symptoms and effects of osteoporosis.

The results of a study published in the American Journal of Nutrition highlighted the effects of krill oil on chronic inflammation and arthritic symptoms. The study was conducted by Western University in collaboration with McMaster University. Participants included 90 patients who were diagnosed with inflammatory conditions such as cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis and / or osteoarthritis. Findings revealed that krill oil reduced pain by 28.9%, stiffness by 20.3% and functional impairment by 22.8%. Moreover, results indicated that krill "significantly inhibits inflammation and reduces arthritic symptoms within a short treatment period of 7 and 14 days."

4. Improves Brain Function and Development

The important nutrients choline and omega fatty acids in krill oil are helpful in enhancing normal brain functioning and improving memory, cognition and behavior. A study at the University of California, Berkley, suggests that low levels of Omega-3s, particularly DHA and EPA may contribute to cognitive decline. Findings indicate that regular consumption of Omega-3s, especially sources rich in EPA and DHA, can considerably improve cognitive function. Moreover, a study of 30 adults with attention difficulties showed 46% improvement in mental concentration and 48.9 % mental focus after 90 days of taking krill supplements. Furthermore, krill oil contains the powerful antioxidant astaxanthin, which has the rare ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and rid the body of free radicals that can lead to cognitive impairment.

5. Regulates LDL (Bad) and HDL (Good) Cholesterol

This is actually a very difficult thing to do and not many substances can do it. A number of studies have shown that krill oil is tremendously effective in reducing LDL cholesterol, raising HDL cholesterol, and lowering blood sugar. Studies have shown where fish oil reduced the "LDL" or the bad cholesterol by only 4.6%, krill reduced the LDL by 34%. Alternatively, it increased the HDL or good cholesterol by 43.5% in comparison to the fish oil, which showed improvement in HDL by 4.2%.

6. Improves Skin Health

Krill oil contains nutrients that can help reduce acne outbreaks, lessen the symptoms of psoriasis, especially the redness and itching and make skin feel softer and more hydrated. Oral and topical use has also been shown to be a skin cancer prophylactic (a medicine used to prevent disease) because it contains retinol and astaxanthin which are known for their anti-carcinogenic effect. The astaxanthin found in krill oil also provides excellent protection against ultraviolet light and UV-induced skin damage.

7. Improves Immune System

Numerous studies prove that krill oil can improve your overall health by strengthening your immune system, optimizing kidney function, regulating the body's hormone levels, elevating your mood and emotional well-being, balancing blood sugar levels, regulating blood pressure levels, supporting eye health and boosting your energy.

8. Improves Mental Health

The right amount of krill oil can be helpful in improving mental health of people suffering from depression, mood swings, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and bipolar disorder. It can also help lessen the effects of stress, something that affects so many people.

9. Alleviates Premenstrual Symptoms (PMS)

Numerous studies have been able to link a lack of Omega-3 acids in the body with the severity of PMS symptoms in women. These studies found the introduction of a krill oil supplement to not only be effective in reliving physical problems like bloating but helpful with the emotional ones as well. 73% of women showed a clinically significant reduction in both emotional and physical distress prior to menstruation. They were taking 1-4 grams per day 7 to 10 days prior to menstruation.

10. Anti-Aging Properties

The antioxidants present in krill oil have been found to be effective in fighting the effects of free radicals in the body. This can lead to improved skin texture and a reduction in wrinkles, stronger nails and healthier, thicker hair. Numerous ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) tests have proven that krill oil effectively repairs aging cells when compared to other antioxidants. In fact, independent labs confirmed that it contains an ORAC value of 430 while fish oil has an ORAC value of 8. This means it has over 48 times more antioxidant power than fish oil.

Cautions On Krill Oil

If you are allergic to shrimp you should not take this supplement since you could also get an allergic reaction to it. If this is you, then you should stick to fish oil supplements. Plus if you are on blood thinners, you should consult your doctor before taking any fish supplements.

My Thoughts:

After taking the supplements for several months I noticed my ability to focus had improved, my hair was softer (wasn't expecting that), I felt happier, and the whites of my eyes were whiter (wasn't expecting that either). I'm having my cholesterol tested next month so I'll let you know those results when I get them.

I have several friends as well as my Dad who just started taking Krill oil and I'll be monitoring them over the next few months and report on there opinions.

H.J.Small- Nutritionist
Krill Oil
Pure Antarctic Krill Oil

Sunless Tanning - Skin Types

Each person has a different level of melatonin in his or her skin. Depending on the levels will determine how one can handle being exposed to the sun. Understanding the dangerous of harmful UVA and UVB rays is important to any skin type. However, if one burns in the sun, that does not mean they cannot get a gorgeous golden glow too.

Here is a list of sunless tanning recommendations for all types of skin:

Type A - Always burns and never tans

If your skin is the type that gets many freckles and reddens in the skin, then you are type A. This skin type should always be more cautious in the sun because typically it can be more prone to skin cancer. These folks normally have light hair and light eyes.

A dark sunless tan on this type of skin pigment is not going to look natural. Try using a medium to light tone in order to keep the glow natural looking. Using daily moisturizers with a DHA boost is available in almost all major skincare lines. Even mixing a sunless tanner with regular skin lotion can be another option to obtain some sun kissed color.

If mixing sunless tanner with regular lotion, start by using small quantities. Make sure the blending is successful because committing an entire bottle.

Type B - Burns easy and tans minimal

This type of skin has more leeway than Type A. By lying in the sun, it could take weeks to achieve the color one desires. One single night of sunless tanning will not only give the glow it is safer than exposing the sun to deadly rays.

This type of skin can go a little darker than Type A. Depending on the amount of color one is looking for, they can go with almost any tone except extra dark. Extra dark may turn the skin orange or just look unnatural.

Type C - Burns moderately but tans gradually

For Type C, sunless tanners work amazing for these folks. The results may not always turn the same darkness as tanning beds or sunbathing, but they will glow. Not only will this be safer for the skin it will be much healthier and better long term results.

This type of skin can use any levels of sunless tanning depending on the personal goal.

Type D - Minimal burning always tans well

For this type, it can be tempting to just lie in the sun and tan naturally. Especially since, they pick up color fast with little to no burning. However, no matter what skin type one has it still is not safe to expose the skin without protection.

Here is the other catch, the sun will eventually wrinkle the skin and cause discoloration (sunspots). This skin type can use any levels of sunless tanning to achieve that golden glow.

Type E - Rarely burns and tans profusely

No matter what the skin type one has, sun damages the skin. These folks do not necessarily need sunless tanning. It depends on their skin color goals. During the winter months, sunless tanning can be most beneficial to these folks for their legs and other covered up areas. Be sure to use weekly exfoliation to prevent the skin from looking dull.

Type F - Never burns and deeply pigmented

While this skin type may not be visibly red, it can burn and become painful at that. Skin pigmentation can protect against burning in UVB rays, but not enough protection against UVA. UVA is what causes aging and discoloration.

For this type, one may not need sunless tanning unless they are suffering from pigment loss or vitiligo.

No matter what skin type one has, sun protection should always be on the top of the list. From Type A to Type F skin type, be sure to use sunless tanning in order to achieve any golden goals. This is especially true for the skin types that burn easily in the sun. If sunless tanning applied at home is difficult, consider going to an airbrush-tanning specialist.

Scrub & Tan is a Delray Beach spray tanning salon.

The Amazing Health Benefits of Krill Oil

There has been much research published over the last few years about a supplement called Krill Oil. I had never even heard of it until about 6 months ago when I was Googling ways I could naturally lower my cholesterol and improve a bit of mental fog I was experiencing. After spending what seemed like too many nights reading scientific journals about it I decided to just give it a try. It's been 4 months now and I'm extremely surprised at how effective it's been (more about that at the end of the article). But first, what are Krill?

Krill are little crustaceans that look like shrimp and provide food for everything from salmon to blue whales and are one of the most nutritious creatures in the sea. Not only are they loaded with a powerful antioxidant called Astaxanthin, but they're a great source of omega-3 fatty acids which for years research has shown to help lower an individual's risk for heart attack, stroke, certain cancers, depression and overall inflammation. The oil is naturally found in a species called the Euphausia Superba and is extracted and sold as a nutritional supplement.

There has been a lot of research showing krill oil to be superior to fish oil in head-to-head testing. It has found to be healthier, safer, and more potent.

Krill Oil vs Fish Oil

The reason krill oil is more effective than other marine oils is the amount of omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids and extremely potent antioxidants. It's the unique combination of these essential ingredients that provide the greatest health benefits.

Krill, like fish oil, contains both of the omega-3 fats Eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexanoic acid (DHA), but hooked together in a different form. In fish oil these omega-3 fatty acids are found in the triglyceride form whereas in krill oil they are hooked up in a double chain Phospholipid structure (The fats in our own cell walls are in this Phospholipid form). Attached to the EPA leg of the phospholipid is a molecule of astaxanthin, an extremely potent antioxidant. The phospholipid structure of the EPA and DHA in krill oil makes them much more absorbable and allows for a much easier entrance into the mitochondria and the cellular nucleus - especially a better absorption and delivery of DHA to the brain. In addition to EPA and DHA it contains a complex phospholipid profile including phosphatidylcholine, a potent source of reductive-stress-reducing choline. Research indicates that phospholipid omega-3 fatty acids (found in krill oil) have greater bioavailability for cell growth and functioning, compared with omega-3 triglycerides (found in fish oil).

Here are 10 reasons to take krill oil-

1. A Powerful Antioxidant

Krill oil contains vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin D and astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant. When compared to fish oil in terms of ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) values it was found to be 48 times more potent than fish oil. Antioxidants are important as they protect our cells from damage from free radicals - unstable substances that contribute to certain chronic diseases. Unlike many other antioxidants, krill's astaxanthin crosses the blood-brain barrier where it can protect the eye, brain and central nervous system from free radical damage.

2. Protects Your Heart

Results from a study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition reported that krill oil can significantly reduce heart-damaging inflammation. The study was conducted by measuring the presence of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels in the blood. One way to measure the risk of heart damage is to examine the amount of the body's CRP levels. The group that had been taking 300 mg of krill oil daily reduced their CRP levels by 19.3% after seven days and 29.7% after 14 days.

3. Reduces Inflammation and Arthritis Pain

Low levels of omega 3 in the body lead to inflammation, which further leads to other diseases. Krill oil has several anti-inflammatory properties. That means that a regular dose can reduce general joint pains, back pain, swelling and inflammatory arthritis. There have also been a number of studies conducted that found that krill was effective in reliving some of the symptoms and effects of osteoporosis.

The results of a study published in the American Journal of Nutrition highlighted the effects of krill oil on chronic inflammation and arthritic symptoms. The study was conducted by Western University in collaboration with McMaster University. Participants included 90 patients who were diagnosed with inflammatory conditions such as cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis and / or osteoarthritis. Findings revealed that krill oil reduced pain by 28.9%, stiffness by 20.3% and functional impairment by 22.8%. Moreover, results indicated that krill "significantly inhibits inflammation and reduces arthritic symptoms within a short treatment period of 7 and 14 days."

4. Improves Brain Function and Development

The important nutrients choline and omega fatty acids in krill oil are helpful in enhancing normal brain functioning and improving memory, cognition and behavior. A study at the University of California, Berkley, suggests that low levels of Omega-3s, particularly DHA and EPA may contribute to cognitive decline. Findings indicate that regular consumption of Omega-3s, especially sources rich in EPA and DHA, can considerably improve cognitive function. Moreover, a study of 30 adults with attention difficulties showed 46% improvement in mental concentration and 48.9 % mental focus after 90 days of taking krill supplements. Furthermore, krill oil contains the powerful antioxidant astaxanthin, which has the rare ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and rid the body of free radicals that can lead to cognitive impairment.

5. Regulates LDL (Bad) and HDL (Good) Cholesterol

This is actually a very difficult thing to do and not many substances can do it. A number of studies have shown that krill oil is tremendously effective in reducing LDL cholesterol, raising HDL cholesterol, and lowering blood sugar. Studies have shown where fish oil reduced the "LDL" or the bad cholesterol by only 4.6%, krill reduced the LDL by 34%. Alternatively, it increased the HDL or good cholesterol by 43.5% in comparison to the fish oil, which showed improvement in HDL by 4.2%.

6. Improves Skin Health

Krill oil contains nutrients that can help reduce acne outbreaks, lessen the symptoms of psoriasis, especially the redness and itching and make skin feel softer and more hydrated. Oral and topical use has also been shown to be a skin cancer prophylactic (a medicine used to prevent disease) because it contains retinol and astaxanthin which are known for their anti-carcinogenic effect. The astaxanthin found in krill oil also provides excellent protection against ultraviolet light and UV-induced skin damage.

7. Improves Immune System

Numerous studies prove that krill oil can improve your overall health by strengthening your immune system, optimizing kidney function, regulating the body's hormone levels, elevating your mood and emotional well-being, balancing blood sugar levels, regulating blood pressure levels, supporting eye health and boosting your energy.

8. Improves Mental Health

The right amount of krill oil can be helpful in improving mental health of people suffering from depression, mood swings, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and bipolar disorder. It can also help lessen the effects of stress, something that affects so many people.

9. Alleviates Premenstrual Symptoms (PMS)

Numerous studies have been able to link a lack of Omega-3 acids in the body with the severity of PMS symptoms in women. These studies found the introduction of a krill oil supplement to not only be effective in reliving physical problems like bloating but helpful with the emotional ones as well. 73% of women showed a clinically significant reduction in both emotional and physical distress prior to menstruation. They were taking 1-4 grams per day 7 to 10 days prior to menstruation.

10. Anti-Aging Properties

The antioxidants present in krill oil have been found to be effective in fighting the effects of free radicals in the body. This can lead to improved skin texture and a reduction in wrinkles, stronger nails and healthier, thicker hair. Numerous ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) tests have proven that krill oil effectively repairs aging cells when compared to other antioxidants. In fact, independent labs confirmed that it contains an ORAC value of 430 while fish oil has an ORAC value of 8. This means it has over 48 times more antioxidant power than fish oil.

Cautions On Krill Oil

If you are allergic to shrimp you should not take this supplement since you could also get an allergic reaction to it. If this is you, then you should stick to fish oil supplements. Plus if you are on blood thinners, you should consult your doctor before taking any fish supplements.

My Thoughts:

After taking the supplements for several months I noticed my ability to focus had improved, my hair was softer (wasn't expecting that), I felt happier, and the whites of my eyes were whiter (wasn't expecting that either). I'm having my cholesterol tested next month so I'll let you know those results when I get them.

I have several friends as well as my Dad who just started taking Krill oil and I'll be monitoring them over the next few months and report on there opinions.

H.J.Small

Pure Antarctic Krill Oil
Krill Oil

Why Arent You Using Omega 3 to Fight Cholesterol?

What if I told you that there are effective ways to lower cholesterol with a few simple life style changes? The fact is, if you are concerned about what you are eating and asking yourself, what should my cholesterol be, you are aware that its time to make some healthy changes.

Many folks like me are very cautious about the types of medicine we put into our system. When my doctor first recommended a popular statin drug to help lower my bad cholesterol, I was apprehensive about taking yet another pill.

One primary concern for many people is how this medication will affect what Im already taking. When you read so many stories about problems from mixing medications, it gives one pause.

The first question to answer is what should my cholesterol be? According to the American Heart Association, total cholesterol should be no more than a combined 199 mg/dl. Total triglycerides should be no more than 149mg/dl, LDL no more than 99mg/dl.

If you are doing everything correctly; namely, exercising at least twenty minutes a day and eating foods that arent filled with saturated fat, your cholesterol numbers should reflect this regimen.

How many people have bad cholesterol?

Sadly, the statistics show that one in six people suffer from high cholesterol. The potential complications from this problem include stroke, heart disease, and damage to the kidneys or obesity. No matter what way you look at it, high cholesterol is a formula early death.

Proper diet consisting of high amounts of Omega 3 can help to fight the effects of bad cholesterol. Foods that are high in Omega 3 include, green vegetables, nuts, grains, lentils and bean dishes. In addition, sea food is high in Omega 3 fatty acids.

If you are wondering which fish contain Omega 3, look no further than cold water fish like sardines, mackerel, and salmon. Benefits of DHA and EPA fatty acids found in fish include the fighting of bad LDL cholesterol and the boosting of HDL cholesterol.

Which fish contain Omega 3? Well, many types of fish contain Omega 3 but the best source of DHA and EPA fatty acid comes from cold water fish.

What if I dont like sea food?

There is a simple and beneficial solution to this issue. Taking an Omega 3 supplement is the ideal answer. An Omega 3 supplement is basically the essential fatty acids found in fish oil without having to eat fish. For many people, an Omega 3 supplement each day is indeed the easy way out.

An Omega 3 supplement is also the simple way to meet you dietary recommendation for a daily dose of Omega 3. Just as important, its all natural and alleviates the worry about harmful side effects from cholesterol lowering chemicals in your body!

Conclusion

Now that you know the facts, remember the next time you want to know what should my cholesterol be, keep it simple, 99mg/dl or less for LDL, 149 mg/dl for triglycerides, and 39 mg/dl or better for HDL! Secondly, exercise at a moderate level, an Omega 3 supplement each day, plus a healthy diet, and youre on your way to healthy living!

Jim Morham is a vocal advocate for healthy living and products that promote good health. Due to personal needs, Jim strives to find the very best quality products that aid good health, in order to share them with others. Visit his site at http://purest-omega-3.com/

Omega 3 and Good Health: Start Young and Live Longer

You have probably heard this a thousand times; keep your cholesterol under control with lots of Omega 3 and you will help prevent disease of various kinds as your grow older.

Here is an even more important tip. Mothers or moms to be; start immediately and give your children a healthy leg up in life by initiating a diet filled with Omega 3 fatty acids for children.

Why should we start so early?

You know the old saying about how our personalities are formed by the time we are five or six years old? Well, health habits that take a person through life are formed the same way.

As pregnancy begins, there are numerous benefits for your unborn child in the form of Omega 3 fatty acids for children. Proper nutrition begins with mom eating a diet high in Omega 3.

This diet should consist of items such as nuts and seeds to snack on, lots of leafy green vegetables; broccoli is a terrific choice, and any type of grains. The key is to stay away from saturated fat.

Omega 3 fatty acids for children are essentially the same as what an adult should integrate into their own diet.

By starting this process while pregnant, Omega 3 like DHA and EPA; found in cold water fish give the fetus several advantages according to several studies.

What kind of head start can I provide for my child?

Some studies have shown that cognitive development in infants tends to be increased if they have received Omega 3 fatty acids like DHA that come from the oils of cold water fish. If this is taken during pregnancy, evidence suggests that other developments affecting learning can also be positively influenced.

Other studies have indicated that children struggling with ADHD have also suffered from low levels of Omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids for children have been shown to be effective in treating this problem.

In the study group, children with ADHD were given Omega 3 fish oil supplements as a way to treat this deficiency.

Omega 3 fatty acids for children have also shown results in protecting kids who are susceptible to diabetes from developing the disease. The research directly points to the efficacy of a diet rich in Omega 3 fatty acids combined with elimination of items containing saturated fat or foods that are prepared by deep- frying.

Strong health habits into adulthood

Its no accident that providing these kinds of influences from childhood generally leads to better health choices in adulthood. Lower triglycerides and bad cholesterol through maintaining a proper diet will lead to less chance of developing heart disease.

According to Dr Erminia M Guarneri a cardiologist at Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine, not only does Omega 3 help prevent problems in healthy people, but Omega 3 in fish oil has been shown to decrease the risk of heart-related death in those who have suffered a previous heart attack.

By providing a diet rich in Omega 3 fatty acids for children; then continuing this protocol into adulthood, you lessen the risk of high cholesterol and the many health problems associated with LDL cholesterol.

Conclusion

Now that you know the facts, take the steps starting today that will give your new baby or young children a leg up in life by stating with a diet rich in Omega 3. You will be giving them a better shot at a healthy life for decades to come!

Jim Morham is a vocal advocate for healthy living and products that promote good health. Due to personal needs, Jim strives to find the very best quality products that aid good health, in order to share them with others. Visit his site at http://purest-omega-3.com/

Omega 3 Fish Oil - An Important Supplement for a Healthy Heart

Fish oils, also known as essential fatty acids, have been known to help the prevention of heart attacks by helping you with a healthier heart. It is suggested that people increase their consumption of fish oils to prevent and, in certain cases, slow down any chances of a heart attack.

Eating fish regularly is a good option for some people but because most people cannot get adequate levels of fish oils from their foods, experts recommend that they add fish oil supplements to their diet.

Many studies have shown that consumption of omega 3 essential oils have various health benefits including lower blood pressure, better cholesterol levels, a healthy cardiovascular system and reduced occurrences of heart attacks. It has been proved that certain regions that have a diet high in fish oil, like the Japanese and Mediterranean cultures, have lower levels of heart attack and heart diseases in their population.

How can omega 3 oils help with a healthy heart?

Omega-3 fatty acids consist of 3 acids, namely - DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) which work together and individually to reduce the various risks associated with heart disease.

Of all the three acids, DHA is considered the most important and is very crucial for a healthy heart. It is not only important for our hearts but also for our brains. In fact, lower DHA levels have been linked to Alzheimers disease.

Since our bodies are not able to manufacture the amount of DHA required by us for optimum health, we need to supplement this requirement by adding dietary supplements to our daily intake.

The following are some of the benefits associated with fatty acids:

- Adding essential fatty acids to our diets decreases our risk of the 2 main factors responsible for cardiovascular ailments- atherosclerosis and arrhythmia. These are the two main causes for a heart attacks and other heart diseases.

- Fish oils also help with reducing inflammation which is caused due to the production of prostaglandin. While both omega 3 as well as omega 6 acids produce prostaglandins, the ones produced by omega 3 oils are less active (sometimes as much as by 50 times) than the ones produced by omega 6 acids thereby lowering the rate of inflammation.

- Fish oils also help thin your blood preventing blood clots and also help lower the blood pressure.

- Omega 3s help keeping healthy cholesterol levels. Fatty acids are said to reduce LDL (low-density lipoprotein) also known as the bad cholesterol and increase the levels of HDL (the good cholesterol).

Most people begin with levels of 500 mg of omega 3 fatty acids but if you or your family members have a history of heart diseases or have not been able to adhere to a healthy diet, you can consume up to 1000 mg of omega 3 oils. But, of course, it is recommended that before you begin with any dietary supplements, it is better you check with your physician, especially if you are on any medications.

Visit Omega 3 Essential Fatty Acids to check out the details of pure supplements for heart health.

Discover the Truth About Safe Cholesterol Levels

Youve probably heard it a hundred times but, safe cholesterol levels in your body are essentially like having free- flowing fuel injectors in your car engine. The tricky part is cutting through all the noise on the subject and getting the facts in order to stay healthy!

Safe cholesterol levels are something that will promote good health. Literally, unsafe or high levels of bad cholesterol can cut decades off your life. The catch is that most people cant tell when they are feeling run down due to cold or flu.

They basically know what to do to fix the problem. With cholesterol, good or bad, there are no warning signs to tell you if there is a problem. Safe cholesterol levels are simply presented to you when you get a checkup. Typically, your doctor tells you everything looks fine.

To be a good health care consumer you need to be the proactive one and look under the hood so to speak.

What should I look for?

First step to becoming better informed is to ask specifically what your cholesterol numbers are the next time you have a checkup. Here are the facts about safe cholesterol levels according to the American Heart Association.

The first measure of safe cholesterol levels is the overall cholesterol level in the blood. Your total cholesterol number which represents the combination of LDL, HDL and Triglycerides should never exceed 199 mg/dl.

Unfortunately, most people stop there and think they are home free. Total cholesterol is only one indicator and not the most important one. For instance, you could have a total at 199 mg/dl and still have excess LDL which is the bad cholesterol.

To maintain safe cholesterol levels, LDL has to be below 99 mg/dl. In addition, your Triglycerides should be kept below 149 mg/dl. Together these two types of cholesterol are the cause of bad health in the form of heart disease and potential stroke.

Why is cholesterol so harmful?

Cholesterol comes from the foods we eat. Secondarily, cholesterol is created from our liver as we digest what we eat. While we sleep, the liver makes cholesterol. Besides diet, stress can be a cause for excess LDL and triglycerides. This fatty based waxy substance causes a plaque buildup in the arteries and restricts blood flow to the heart and brain.

This restriction of blood flow is responsible for ailments from heart disease and stroke to high blood pressure. As you can see, any disruption from the pumping and flow of blood by the heart have serious implications for the organs of the body like the kidneys.

What can I do to protect myself?

Going back to the automobile analogy, clean fuel injectors keep fuel going to the engine. Clean oil keeps the parts of the engine working and in top shape. The same is true for your heart.

By eating foods rich in omega 3 oils, you can provide your heart with an all natural lubricant that helps keep the arteries clear and the blood flowing. Why is this so you ask? Omega 3 oils are derived from cold water fish like salmon and sardines.

Contained within these omega 3 oils are powerful and essential fatty acids known as DHA or docosahexaenoic acid and EPA, which is eicosapentaenoic acid. These omega 3 oils and the fatty acids that come from them are a powerful cleansing agent.

DHA and EPA promote safe cholesterol levels by increasing levels of HDL in the blood. HDL or good cholesterol helps to remove excess particulate LDL that builds up along the artery walls. Think of HDL as Drano for unclogging pipes. In this case, the HDL is clearing the arteries leading to the heart.

Omega 3 oils have been clinically proven to increase HDL; which according the heart association should be at 39 mg/dl or higher, for optimal health.

In addition, more doctors are now recommending omega 3 oils as a supplement for a healthy heart and in order to maintain safe cholesterol levels. As opposed to drugs to lower bad cholesterol, omega 3 oils are all natural and come in gel cap form for those that arent fish eaters.

Conclusion

Put this to the test right away! Safe cholesterol levels are essential for a healthy heart! You can take the first step today on the journey toward better heart health. Heres to your good health.

Jim Morham is a vocal advocate for healthy living and products that promote good health. Due to personal needs, Jim strives to find the very best quality products that aid good health, in order to share them with others. Visit his site at http://purest-omega-3.com/