What is the recommendation for omega-3s and supplements in general?
Omega-3s — polyunsaturated fatty acids that cannot be made by the body and, therefore, should come from our diet — have been shown to protect against stroke and heart disease. Most Americans don’t get enough omega-3s in their diet. Try to get between one and two grams of omega-3s daily. Good sources of omega-3s are nuts, oils, soybeans, and seafood. Fish oil supplements are another option. In fact, while South Beach Diet creator Dr. Arthur Agatston doesn’t generally recommend dietary supplements, preferring that you get your nutrients from whole foods, he does make an exception when it comes to omega-3s. To make up for a shortfall, he recommends a fish oil supplement for most people, especially those who don’t eat fish at least twice weekly. Be sure to check with your doctor before taking any supplement.
