The benefits of taking fish oil have been well documented over the years, with countless research studies showing that taking Omega 3 oils derived from fish can boost brain function, ease joint pain and hugely benefit the heart.
Now, I have a bit of confession to make – I want to admit that for many years I steered away from fish oils mainly due to the fact that up until several ago I was a strict vegetarian of 20 years (I even worked for 18 months in the press office of The Vegetarian Society in Altrincham, Cheshire).
However, while working there a book came to my attention called Healing Without Freud Or Prozac: Natural Approaches to Curing Stress, Anxiety and Depression. A very good male friend of mine was suffering terribly with low mood, and I found this book had some very good suggestions. As a trained holistic health and stress management therapist, my first choice when looking at any health issue (including mental health) is to look to nature and natural remedies.
One chapter of the book focused on fish oils and Omega 3 fatty acids for its excellent, well researched evidence of bringing improved mood and cognition. Moreover, once I researched further there was very compelling studies on the way fish oils could also benefit physical problems like arthritis of all types (especially RA – Rheumatoid Arthritis which I have), back problems, heart disease, blood pressure – the list seemed endless.
The key components of EFAs (Essential Fatty Acids) in fish oils are docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and the richest, most researched source remains fish oils (note, some veggie friendly and algae products have come along but don’t in my opinion compare to the results I have experienced with actual, high quality fish oils).
So, which fish oils on the market are the best?? Here in the office at Shine! Towers three of us trialed the most reputable brand in the UK – Wileys Finest Wild Alaskan Fish Oil. Not the cheapest range on the market but certainly the highest quality. While not a scientific study (!) I am pleased to share that my colleague Anna who has chronic back pain, told us that she found relief (much to her surprise) within about 10 days of taking the oils. My other colleague Ian who has no significant health issues, found that his mood and clarity was improved in about three days and he is now an Essential Fatty Acid disciple!
My own experience of trying a new and slightly pricier brand was really positive. The pains in my hands from my Rheumatoid Arthritis certainly improved and overall, I just felt well better – more focused. Best of all and I have been keeping this one a secret, fish oils seem to really keep the wrinkles at bay. I am constantly asked how come I have such good skin and I have to honest now and say it is for me down to fish oils. The lush fatty acids just seem to boost the elasticity and texture of my skin. So no complaints! Hey talking of which, no there is no pongy, gaggy fish taste with Wileys’ range.
Some of their range is combined with Vitamin K and D for extra benefits and as a massive fan of increased Vitamin D intake, I cannot recommend this range enough.
Benefits of Vitamin D:
- Helps maintain healthy bones
- Supports the health of the immune system, brain and nervous system
- Regulates insulin levels and aids diabetes management
- Supports lung function and cardiovascular health
- Research suggests that Vitamin D could help reduce the risk of cancer, Type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
More information:
Wiley’s Finest is MSC Certified and sustainably sourced from Wild Alaskan Pollock. Typically £33.99 for 60 capsules.
Available from wileysfinest.co.uk, yourhealthy.co.uk and Whole Foods.
