Choosing a Safe and Effective Fish Oil Product

Given the vast and growing body of scientific research proving the many health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, we know that fish oil is important in the diet. However, a recent law suit in California with regard to a state law about proper labeling known as Proposition 65 has cast a doubt in the public’s mind on whether fish oil is really safe because these supplements could contain toxic contaminants. In this law suit, PCBs were singled out as the culprit. To put things into perspective, PCBs are ubiquitous within the environment, which means that all fish, whether they are caught for food from the ocean or a river or are used to make fish oil, will contain at least trace amounts of PCBs. In fact, since whole fish filets are not purified before arriving at the store, there is a much greater chance that our fish dinner is higher in PCBs than our fish oil supplementation.

Fish oil is safe but some fish oil is purer than others – not to mention fresher, better tasting and sourced with greater respect for the environment. But how can consumers know that they are buying a high quality fish oil supplement?

When it comes to choosing fish oil supplements, whether in liquid form, soft gel or effervescent form, there is a wide range of quality markers and standards. Making an informed choice will ensure a better experience in terms of efficacy, dosage, compliance, and planetary impact. Don’t fall prey to marketing language – be it from the supplier or the manufacturer.

There is one simple way for you to be confident that the product you are buying will provide the health benefits you are looking for and deliver the quality markers discussed above: third party testing. Any responsible fish oil manufacturer will commission an independent testing organization who does not benefit financially from the test results to test their product. The test results should be listed on the company website or made available to you by email even if the company is not manufacturing the oil themselves. Sometimes you will find test results on public websites like www.ifosprogram.com. By comparing the test results for purity and freshness levels from different brands, you can differentiate lower quality from higher quality fish oil, thereby ensuring safety and efficacy.

Follow these guidelines to get to the basics:

· Purity from contaminants and toxins is a top priority. Dioxins, PCBs, Mercury and Lead are a few of the contaminants that must be avoided in quantities that are harmful to humans. Though all food substances, including fish oil, could contain some level of these contaminants, look for brands that test to very refined levels and find no detectable levels when tested at 10 ppb for mercury and lead and .5 ppt for PCBs and dioxins. In addition, raw material should be harvested from healthy and abundant waters, processed to eliminate environmental contaminants, and then third-party tested to ensure that the finished product exceeds international pharmaceutical standards. Some internationally-accepted quality standards include: CRN (Council for Responsible Nutrition), WHO (World Health Organization) and IFOS (International Fish Oil Standards). It is important to note that some heat is required to extract the oil from a fish and to remove environmental contaminants. Despite what is being said in the market, fish oil must go through a cleansing process that uses heat. This can easily be done using low heat without injury to the oil. A method such as molecular distillation is effective for ensuring purity levels. Look for product that well exceeds the established limits.

· Exceptional freshness levels are absolutely essential and ensure product integrity and biological efficacy. Oxidized (rancid) oil is not healthy for the body, and is the cause of the fishy smell, taste and burps that many people have experienced with fish oil. Companies have been known to try to mask smell by using flavoring, so check for third party test results for peroxide levels (current oxidation) and anisidine values (past oxidation). Freshness is measured by anisidine and peroxide values, which combine for a TOTOX or total oxidation value. Look for a TOTOX value of less than 26.0 meq/kg -- the lower the number the fresher the fish oil. This value is put forth by CRN, IFOS and GOED. A quality product from a reputable company should come in well below these limits.

· Look for processing methods that do not include the presence of oxygen, excessive heat or chemicals. Processing the oil in a nitrogen environment and without oxygen will prevent oxidative rancidity. Mild heat is necessary, and as long as there is no oxygen present, heat does not pose a threat.

· Dosage is key with fish oil so read the supplement facts panel on the product. For general maintenance, a daily dose would average about 500 mg of EPA and DHA. This can often be accomplished with one soft gel or 1/4 tsp of a high quality concentrated fish body oil or ½ tsp of cod liver oil. Products containing a lower concentration of EPA and DHA mean that you have to take more soft gels to get the required amount of EPA and DHA. That’s why a less expensive bottle does not necessarily mean a good bargain! You must read the label.

· Great taste is important to ensure compliance. Exceptional freshness will ensure good taste. And be sure to choose a supplement with only natural flavorings and preservatives.

· Purchase from a reputable company that has an excellent track record for: environmental sustainability with regards to fishing practices, a strong corporate/social responsibility profile, community involvement, and respect from the medical and health professional community.

· Since most packaging does not give the whole “fish” story, go to the website or call the customer service department to fill in the blanks. A quality company will go out of their way to make sure you have this information.

Compliments of Nordic Naturals (www.nordicnaturals.com)

Nordic Naturals is dedicated to educating the public on pure, effective, and safe fish oil products. To learn more about this initiative, please request an interview from one our experts:

Stuart Tomc, CNHP, Nordic Naturals Educator and Radio/TV personality
Joseph Maroon, MD, Nordic Naturals Medical Advisor

Reference websites:
GOED -- Global Organization for EPA and DHA www.goedomega3.com
CRN -- Council for Responsible Nutrition www.crnusa.org
WHO -- World Health Organization www.who.int
IFOS -- International Fish Oil Standards www.ifosprogram.com
International Omega-3 Learning and Education Consortium for Health and Medicine www.omega3learning.purdue.edu

A recent lawsuit filed in California has many people concerned about the potential toxins in fish oil supplements. The March 2010 labeling lawsuit alleges that eight fish oil companies violated the California’s Proposition 65 by failing to disclose on the product label that their fish oil supplements contained PCB contamination above the “safe harbor” limits set for human PCB consumption. Proposition 65, also known as the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, requires companies doing business in California to provide a "clear and reasonable" warning before knowingly exposing anyone to one or more toxic chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defect, or other reproductive harm. As it pertains to fish oil supplements, this means that companies doing business in California are required to disclose this warning on the label. To learn more about this law suit, please see www.fishoilsafety.com.

Writtenby: Shari Hindman
Integral Marketing, Inc.

What To Look For When Choosing Supplements

Hmm…

WHAT SHOULD A PARENT LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING SUPPLEMENTS FOR THEIR CHILD?

It’s important to realize taking supplements does not make up for an unhealthy diet. Supplements are an insufficient substitute for nutrients from fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, though a general multivitamin and essential fatty acids (EFAs/ Omega 3’s) can be an extraordinary addition to most American diets (children and adults). It’s also important that parents understand what they are buying and why. This is where it’s suggested to speak with a qualified health care practitioner to run appropriate tests when necessary and get the big picture of your child’s health.

Ok, so what to look for:
1. I prefer purchasing supplements from a health food store or direct online, from a reputable company that specializes in Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) vs. supermarket, discount store. Generally, the folks working in health food stores have a vast array of information about the many different vitamins, minerals, supplements they sell and will share a wealth of information about the quality and purification processes for each brand. When purchasing on line, prices may be a bit less. Don’t be shy about speaking with customer service so they can answer all of your questions about the product.

2. Fish oil is highly prone to oxidation and must be processed in an oxygen-free environment. Effective distillation process is critical to removing impurities. Companies such as Nordic Naturals (www.nordicnaturals.com), molecularly distills their fish oil, guaranteeing freshness. (And they are great about sending out the research literature and samples too. This is one company that stands behind their high caliber product – I know this first hand, as many of my clients use Nordic Naturals Fish Oil).

3. You want to be sure that the product is “third party tested” to ensure that what the product claims is in the bottle, is actually “in” the bottle (product). Third party testing means that an outside company is testing the product – it is not tested by the manufacturing company.

4. The USP (U.S. Pharmacopeia) is an organization that tests vitamins and supplements to ensure that products: contain what is stated on the label, the supplement doesn't contain harmful contaminants, the supplement will actually break down and release ingredients into the body, and that the manufacturer uses good quality control practices when producing its supplements. Products passing the USP testing will have “USP verified” on the label.

5. Supplements should not contain artificial colors (dyes), flavors, or preservatives.

6. Look for supplements that contain organic ingredients.

7. If possible purchase supplements that do not contain milk or soy additives.

8. Check the expiration date, products become less potent over time.

9. The National Institute of Health Office of Dietary Supplements provides fact sheets on nearly every imaginable herbal dietary supplement.

10. When putting together an individualized vitamin, mineral supplement program, it’s best to consult with a qualified practitioner. Some supplements may need to be discontinued prior to a surgery For example, EFAs are a natural blood thinner and should typically be discontinued prior to surgery. Your MD can advise safe time frames for stopping and restarting supplementation.

The road to recovery for all persons with a diagnosis of autism or any other illness or disorder, will have its share of ups and downs. I have seen children and families make huge strides when incorporating nutrition into their lifestyle. Each child is an individual with unique needs – there is not one diet or supplement that will be right for all. DHA and EPA, the Omega 3’s are vital and essential nutrients for optimal brain function. It’s always best to check with your MD to ensure that other medications will not have a negative effect in combination with supplements.

A healthy brain and neurological system can best support a healthy, happy child!

Wishing all parents the confidence to follow your instinct and the determination to seek out answers. There is much research being conducted on the brain and smart nutrients to support brain growth and development. It is of the utmost importance to know what you are supplementing with and why. If you have any questions, Lauren is happy to support parents’ on their journey and can be reached at: 404.944.9561 or zimetslp@aol.com.


-written by Lauren Zimet
Lauren Zimet, M.S.,CCC/SLP, N.D.T. Certified, has been in the speech language pathology field for 15 years, specializing with medically involved children with oral motor/feeding and communication issues, as well as neurotypical children supporting healthy development and enhancing self esteem. She is the founder of Healthy Foundations, an Atlanta based brain health education and social thinking program geared for infants and children of all abilities. Lauren has been published in a variety of publications: Parenting Magazine, Advance Magazine for Audiologists and Speech Pathologists, and contributed to the LCP Solution by Dr. Jacqueline Stordy and the Late Talker, by Dr. Marilyn Agin. She holds a M.S. in Speech Language Pathology from Nova Southeastern University, FL and a B.S. from the University of Maryland in Communications. Lauren is passionate about promoting brain health awareness for babies, children and adults. Please visit www.earlyinsights.com for more information.

Why Are Essential Fatty Acids Important For Autistic Children

Why are Essential Fatty Acids important and what can they do for my child with autism?
Omega-3 fatty acids can help children with Autism, AD(H)D, LD, NVLD, and other related disorders.
Keep reading to discover some answers…

As a speech language pathologist, working with children and families, I have seen first hand how nutritional intervention can play a dynamic role in helping children peel back the layers of fog or disconnect, and support the brain and body to function at their true potential. Nutritional intervention, as facilitated by a nutrition specialist offers hope to all. Over the past decade, I have worked closely with nutrition specialists and have deep respect for the work they do. Parents need support, guidance, and resources…Whether a child has a diagnosis of autism, sensory processing disorder, attention deficit (hyperactivity) disorder, or other related learning disorders, nutrition intervention can be an effective ally and tool.

The information contained below is a compilation from my work with extraordinary practitioners such as Ms. Kelly Dorfman, M.S.L.N.D., Ms. Julia Turner, MMSc, RD, LD, and from references such as: Children with Starving Brains by Dr. Jacqueline McCandless, Special-Needs Kids Eat Right by Judy Converse, MPH, RD, LD, and Your Brain Health Lifestyle by Dr. Paul Nussbaum.

Lauren Zimet, M.S.,CCC/SLP is a pediatric speech language pathologist who was interviewed in the book, The LCP Solution by Dr. Jacquelyn Stordy and sees first hand, as a professional and a parent, the benefits of Essential Fatty Acids for all children whether there is a diagnosis of autism or other related disorders.
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Autism is a neurological disorder that affects sensory and social development, impairing a person’s ability to communicate and relate to others. While people with autism may express delays in social development, language and behavior, many children faced with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) also suffer from malnutrition and gastrointestinal disorders. (The Autism Research Foundation)

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs), are structural nutrients that incorporate into the nervous system, including the brain and every cell in the body. While the fats in fish are technically not essential, in practice they may be conditionally essential for children with developmental delays. In other words, a child must take essential fats from the diet and convert them to the DHA he/she needs for brain development. In children with developmental delays many experts think this does not happen sufficiently - or at all! EFA supplements assure sufficiency when the system may not be working as it should. EFAs must enter our body through the food we eat or supplements we take. Fish oil/ cod liver oil is rich in a special type of fatty acid called Omega 3. There are 2 main types of Omega 3 fats found in fish: eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docohexasanoic (DHA). EPA is taken from various parts of the fish, while DHA is taken from the liver, hence is in “Cod liver oil” which also contains Vitamin A and D. Fish oil supplements help correct EFA deficiency and are vital for normal brain development in-utero and after birth. As with all medications and supplements, it is recommended to consult with your pediatrician to ensure there is no contraindication for your child.

The easiest way to get EFAs into our body, is to consume through fish/cod liver oil which has been molecularly distilled/purified. In clinical practice, the use of fish/cod liver oil (Omega 3) is a vital part of intervention, one of the first supplements that is added to diets to support enhanced brain function and reduce internal inflammation. Note: fish oil comes in liquid as well as capsules, and formulations are made for children and adults.

When minerals, vitamins, amino acids or enzymes are deficient in our body, the result can be a disturbed biochemical imbalance. This can cause, or certainly contribute to an inability to focus, concentrate, and other behavior issues. DHA and/or EPA from fish oil provide structural nutrients that support the neurological system which in turn can support sensory processing.

Many benefits from the addition of EFA’s (Omega 3) may be seen after as short as a few weeks to a few months:

Some of the benefits of taking EFAs: (the healthy fat which incorporates into the brain, supporting smooth transmission of messages from neuron to neuron)
1) improved/ increased cognitive function
2) brain development (in-utero and after birth)
3) improved speech and language function
4) helps reduce inflammation: Inflammation is often present in the gut and brains of children with ASD
5) cardiovascular support
6) improved memory
7) improved focus and attention; can provide easier time opening circles of communication
8) improved motor planning
9) calming for the brain
10) improved mood/behavior



Possible Symptoms of Fatty Acid Deficiency or Compromised Status of EFAs:
As shared by: Kelly Dorfman, Julia Turner and Judy Converse in her book, Eat Right:
1. dry skin, dry patches, skin rashes
2. course, frizzy or fly-away hair
3. excess wax build up in ears
4. excessive thirst, yet refuses water
6. permanent “goose-flesh” (bumps) behind arms
7. toe walking
8. chronic inflammatory conditions
9. hostile, aggressive behavior, tantrums (EPA); mood swings
10. inattention (DHA); poor eye contact
11. sensory dysregulation, tactile hypersensitivity

TO NOTE:
The brain thrives on the long-chain Omega 3’s, EPA and DHA. The other Omega 3 to mention, is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) which comes from foods such as flax and walnuts, with lesser amounts in hemp, black currant, pumpkin, and other seeds. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), along with gamma-linolenic acid (Omega 6) make up the “essential fatty acid” family.

Flax seed (ALA), must go through a longer conversion process (EFA > EPA > DHA), often children are not able to efficiently make this conversion. Flax seed can still be used (it’s healthy!) but should be in addition to fish oil. Ground flax seed or DHA that comes from marine algae is another alternative to fish oil/omega 3. Adding GLA with Omega 3 can be helpful specifically when targeting speech issues.

The road to recovery for all persons with a diagnosis of autism or any other disorder, is paved with ups and downs. I have seen children and families make huge strides when incorporating nutrition into their program. Each child is an individual with unique needs – there is not one diet or supplement that will be right for everyone. In my opinion, DHA and EPA, the Omega 3’s are vital and essential nutrients for optimal brain function…and we know, a healthy brain (neurological system) will be able to support a healthy, happy child!

Wishing all parents the confidence to follow your instinct and the determination to seek out answers to continue to help your child thrive and flourish to their fullest potential. There is always hope! Set your standards high…Your child deserves it. J


Lauren Zimet, M.S.,CCC/SLP, N.D.T. Certified, has been in the speech language pathology field for 15 years, specializing with medically involved children with oral motor/feeding and communication issues, as well as neurotypical children supporting healthy development and enhancing self esteem. She is the founder of Healthy Foundations, an Atlanta based brain health education and social thinking program geared for infants and children of all abilities. Lauren has been published in a variety of publications: Parenting Magazine, Advance Magazine for Audiologists and Speech Pathologists, and contributed to The LCP Solution by Dr. Jacqueline Stordy and The Late Talker, by Dr. Marilyn Agin. She holds a M.S. in Speech Language Pathology from Nova Southeastern University, FL and a B.S. from the University of Maryland in Communications. Lauren is passionate about promoting brain health awareness for babies, children and adults. Please visit www.earlyinsights.com for more information.