For practitioners of mixed martial arts and BJJ, there’s always a conscious effort to improve one’s diet. Not only is proper diet essential to fuel activities—it’s also crucial to keep the body healthy and functioning. It’s easy to get the macronutrients right. As for micronutrients, that’s another story and that’s where fish oils come in.
Everybody knows we should be taking fish oils. Many mature athletes take them because they’re supposed to be “healthy.” But in reality, nobody knows exactly why. Or how. Well, everyone, except Evan DeMarco maybe.
In this podcast episode, the Shrugged Collective features Evan as guest. A published author and public speaker, he is an expert when it comes to supplements and is on a mission to help Americans integrate omega-3 and omega-6 into their diet. You can listen to the full episode here:
Where Exactly Do Fish Oils Come From?
The biggest question perhaps that no one seems to be asking is where exactly do these oils come from? In the podcast, Evan explains the basic process on how they are derived from sardines and other types of fish with high concentration of omega fatty acids. The show also answers some other key questions, such as:
- How do you integrate these oils into the American diet?
- What does a fish oil-rich breakfast, lunch, dinner look like?
- How do you avoid the “crude oil” of fish oils?
- What quality of oil should you be buying?
- Is there a difference between liquid form and gel cap form?
- What’s the best ratio for the omega-3 and omega-6 ratio?
- What’s the recommended amount of fish oil you should take?
Omega Fatty Acids: Cognitive, Cardiovascular Benefits
You may have heard of fish oils as a supplement for senior citizens. While they may have been positioned to aid cognitive function in aging individuals, recent research has shown that they are beneficial to people of all age groups.
Fish oil contains two omega-3s: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). DHA has been known to aid in cognitive development, from the young to the senior citizen. A higher DHA intake can lead to cognitive benefits as DHA are some of the building blocks of your brain. You can benefit from it even today.
EPA, meanwhile, is known to aid mothers in high-risk pregnancies by regulating blood pressure. It can also help fight age-related macular degeneration and heart diseases.
Fish Oils Vs. Inflammation in Athletes, Gym Buffs
As we grow old, we experience more inflammation in our bodies. Even with the increase in physical activity, such as MMA or going to the gym, can cause inflammation. Your muscles suffer micro tears when you work them out, and you feel those joint paints, you feel those inflamed tendons. And that’s okay! What’s bad is chronic inflammation.
Many athletes think fish oils should be taken when you’re 50 or 60 years old. However, this is a micronutrient that you can begin taking earlier. Prevention is always better than cure.
Fish Oil and the 30-Day Blood Sugar Challenge
Interestingly, Evan also shares his aversion to unhealthy sugars in this episode. Take note that this guy is someone who’s been at the forefront of testing supplements and creating health products. Well, he’s definitely onto something.
If you want to learn more about fish oils, and how to eat better for a healthier body, join the 30-Day Blood sugar challenge today!
