Dear Judy:

There are three types of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. The predominant one is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is present in certain vegetable oils, nuts, and leafy vegetables. This is the type of omega-3 in flax seed. Fish and marine plants are the main source of the other two omega-3s, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). High levels of all three forms of omega-3 in the diet is considered helpful in deriving the maximum health benefits of essential fatty acids.

The many health benefits of flaxseed are well documented in scientific journals. These health benefits have been attributed to the seed's high levels of omega-3 ALA as well as the presence of lignans (phytoestrogens) and its fiber content.

When it comes to omega-3, the advantage of fish oil over flax seed oil is that fish oil is a direct source of EPA and DHA while the ALA in flax seed oil must be converted by the body to EPA and DHA. This conversion is somewhat slow and can be inhibited by lifestyle and other influences.

Research shows that only about 5% of ALA converts to EPA and only up to 3% converts to DHA, if at all. The high ratio of omega-6 linoleic acid to omega-3 ALA, typical of western diets, can inhibit both the uptake and the conversion of ALA because these two fatty acids compete for the same enzymes. Other factors that limit the ALA to EPA and DHA conversion include trans-fatty acids found in many fast foods and baked goods, alcohol intake, certain health conditions, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies (B3, B6, C, zinc, magnesium).

We recommend fish oil because the majority of research conducted on omega-3 fatty acids has been done on fish oil and has focused on the benefits of EPA and DHA. And fish oil supplements have come a long way from the teaspoon of cod liver oil that mom used to make you take. Ultimate Omega is highly concentrated, purified of toxins and has a natural lemon extract added for flavor as well as Vitamin E to help preserve freshness.

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