Posted by kylissa on Jul 05, 2007 · Member since Oct 2006 · 197 posts
(If you are talking ALA or DHA,) flax and hemp oils have high ratios of omega 3 to 6 (a good thing) but go rancid easily and can not be heated. Flax seeds should be ground from what I've read, and are another source. I use Deva brand algae-derived vegan DHA tablets, bought from ebay for the cheapest price... I think $30 for 90 days worth. There are other brands out there too.
0 likes
Posted by EarthGuard on Jul 05, 2007 · Member since May 2007 · 80 posts
I eat ground flax on top of salads, soy yogurt/fruit, and mix it in with all of my baking endeavors. I am not sure if it has the things that you are looking for, but it is a great supplement!
0 likes
Posted by humboldt_honey on Jul 05, 2007 · Member since Feb 2007 · 12529 posts
The body synthesizes EPA/DHA from ALA. I had to look it up, because I couldn't remember the ratio of Omega 3 (ALA) and Omega 6 (LA) we're supposed to get. What I found was that veg*ns get proportionately too much Omega 6, which interferes with Omega 3 absorption, so it's best to eat Omega 3 sources that are proportionately low in Omega 6 for balance.
Flaxseed oil 1 tablespoon (14g) provides 8.0g of ALA and relatively insignificant levels of LA Flaxseed, ground 1 tablespoon (24g) provides 3.8g of ALA Rape Seed (canola) oil 1 tablespoon (14g) provides 1.6g of ALA and only twice as much LA Walnuts 1 oz (28g) provides 2.6g of ALA but also four times as much LA Tofu 4.5oz (126g) provides 0.7g of ALA but also seven times as much LA
0 likes
Posted by Anonymous on Jul 05, 2007 · Member since Dec 1969 · 11789 posts
Flax does not contain the DHA form of Omega 3. DHA comes from only two known sources: Fish or Blue-Green Algae. Luckily there are a lot of supplement companies that cater to non fish-eating people. Spectrum just came out with a flax oil that has DHA (from algae) added. I personally take "Health from the Sea 100% Vegetarian Omega-3 DHA"....it's veggie caps. You can find that on their website: www.healthfromthesun.com Or try your nearest health food store to see what they have. Try supporting the independent stores first before going to the chains.
There's also a Kombucha drink by G.T.'s that has blue-green algae in it. It's their Green flavor. There's also Spirulina, Wheatgrass, and Chlorella in it. Some people actually like the flavor, but I think it' like drinking carbonated vinegar. It's good for you though! :D
Posted by kittylove on Jul 05, 2007 · Member since May 2007 · 19 posts
Thanks Laura, that's the information I was looking for.
0 likes
Posted by humboldt_honey on Jul 05, 2007 · Member since Feb 2007 · 12529 posts
If the body synthesizes EPA/DHA from ALA and you eat a diet containing ALA, what are the benefits of EPA/DHA supplements?
0 likes
Posted by Anonymous on Jul 06, 2007 · Member since Dec 1969 · 11789 posts
If the body synthesizes EPA/DHA from ALA and you eat a diet containing ALA, what are the benefits of EPA/DHA supplements?
Good point! The only times taking that supplement would benefit you are: 1) You don't get enough ALA in your diet. Or, even if you do, our bodies make only limited amounts, but they are found abundantly in the oils of certain fish and in micro algae (that's how the fish get it). 2) You are pregnant. Doctors are now prescribing prenatal multivitamins with DHA in them. 3) If you are taking DHA as a supplement (medication) for cardiovascular problems, or certain skin problems, or to enhance immunity, etc.
Ironically enough, (as with Vitamin C and Zinc), taking excess amounts of DHA can actually result in a depressed immune system. I personally take my DHA with Flax Oil once or twice a week.
Posted by yogaferret on Jul 08, 2007 · Member since Nov 2006 · 460 posts
Speaking of flax seed, I'm curious about whether Black sesame seed also contain ALA. They do great things with black sesame seed here and I'm crazy for it. ;) Also, flax seed is not cheap or regularly available.
Posted by humboldt_honey on Jul 08, 2007 · Member since Feb 2007 · 12529 posts
I don't know, but I just found Nuts Online (http://www.nutsonline.com/health_nuts.html). They sell nuts, but they also have a nice chart about which nuts contain which vitamins and minerals.
0 likes
Posted by kashi9 on Jul 18, 2007 · Member since Jul 2007 · 21 posts
Some people lack the ability to make the conversion from ALA to DHA/EPA. This can be due to old age, poor nutrition or what have you. Therefore it's probably best to get your nutrients in a well rounded diet. Don't forget that chlorella has both omega 3's (EPA- 30-40% of total fats) as well as omega 6 not to mention protein (62% or more), nucleic acids, and a host of other nutrients. Although I do take supplements, I try to get the most out of what I eat and find chlorella or Rejuvenate (a product with chlorella, spirulina, nutritional yeast, RNA, chia, dulse, kelp, etc) to be packed with nutrients. It seems to me better to get the whole algae rather than just the EPA extracted in a capsule (but it's good that it's offered that way for those who aren't into the green). For more details on chlorella try this very informative webpage: http://www.integratedhealth.com/infoabstract/chlorella.htm Or Bernard Jensens's Chlorella, Jewel of the Far East
0 likes
Posted by lisaanddini on Jul 19, 2007 · Member since May 2007 · 2179 posts
Silk makes a plain soymilk with DHA added & their website claims its from a vegan source. It's in a blue container & called Silk Plus.
0 likes
Posted by vegcats on Jul 20, 2007 · Member since Jul 2007 · 32 posts
Yes, it's definitely true that most vegetarians and vegans get far more omega-6 than omega-3 fatty acids. The problem is that the remedy has been omega-3 supplements that don't provide much balance. You want at least 4:1 ratio (omega-3 to omega-6) in your diet. This balance is very important, from a health standpoint.
Chia seeds provide this idea 4:1 ratio, and so are especially ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
Also, although the body can convert alpha-linolenic acids (ALA) to EPA and DHA, as someone mentioned, this conversion isn't always complete, especially if you have nutritional deficiencies, enzyme imbalances, etc. While fatty acids supplements are useful, one way to boost your ability to convert and assimilate ALA (i.e.., to get your DHA) is to take a full-spectrum multivitamin, a good vitamin C formula, and eat a very well-balanced diet (lots of organic leafy greens and colorful vegetables/fruits), and eat high-ALA foods like chia seeds and chlorella.
In terms of superfoods, I would recommend chia seeds, chlorella, spirulina, nutritional yeast or yeast RNA, and a good vegetarian-source protein like Living Fuel Rx (SuperGreens or SuperBerry) (rice and pea sources). There's a lot of other superfoods out there, so do a little research, and see what you like best. Eating superfoods along with a balanced diet will go far in helping you maintain the nutritional status necessary fully to convert ALA into all the fatty acids your body needs for good health. Give your body what it needs...and it will give you back what you need!
0 likes
Posted by gaominglong on Jul 22, 2007 · Member since Jul 2007 · 3 posts
Hi!
This product is what my friends are taking. Rich in DHA and omega 3. Maybe you can surf around the site for more info. Anything you can email me or drop me message at gaominglongAThotmailDOTcom
Posted by kashi9 on Jul 22, 2007 · Member since Jul 2007 · 21 posts
You do know your stuff! And good point about the chia being well balanced. I was never all that big on flax seeds but these little seeds I love! They can be sprinkled anywhere- like sesame seeds. I also wanted to mention related to an above posting about grinding flax- if you are going to do this best to freeze or use immediately to prevent the oils from going rancid. OR try grinding chia seeds (or not grinding them!). I have started doing this in my smoothies and really like the nutty flavor- not the mention all the health benefits. AND they won't go rancid!! So, grind and leave them out on your counter if you'd like!
Oh, and don't forget, chlorella has EPA in it according to my reference (Dr. Bernard Jensen) and not just ALA as you mentioned. The quantity may vary according to species, I'm not sure.
0 likes
Posted by vegcats on Jul 25, 2007 · Member since Jul 2007 · 32 posts
Most commercial essential fatty acid supplements are derived from fish oils, so that's another reason to go with chlorella, chia seeds, and other plant-based superfoods.
Chlorella is sold in most health food stores in tablet form, which is convenient, but more expensive. I tend to save the tablets for when I'm traveling, and use the powder form on an everyday basis. Chlorella powder is available from many sources. Here's where I get my raw, non-gmo, pesticide-free chlorella powder:
I keep chlorella in the freezer (or refrigerator) because it's hygroscopic (i.e., it absorbs moisture), which really helps preserve freshness (no fishy odor). This chlorella tastes a bit like green tea (interestingly enough) and in fact I sometimes put it in my tea, after a friend suggested trying it. It's quite tasty in tea, if you just use a small amount.
If you like chlorella, you'll enjoy reading Bernard Jensen's Chlorella: Jewel of the Far East, as someone already mentioned. Few people know that Jensen also wrote an earlier book with lots of beautiful pictures and more detailed information titled, Chlorella: Gem of the Orient. I read both books. The first one is a good place to start, but the second one is really a tour de force. I also recommend a free online book by Mike Adams (aka, 'the Heath Ranger') titled Superfoods for Optimum Health: Chlorella and Spirulina. This is the most up-to-date resource, and best of all its a totally free online book, accessible from any web browser. Read it here: www.chlorellafactor.com
Recenty, I found a spectacular superfood that contains chlorella, but also offers a full spectrum of nutrients. I still take chlorella every day, but I'm beginning to love this stuff called Rejuvenate!. I don't think there's anything out there like this formula: www.integratedhealth.com/featured-health-products/rejuvenate.html
What I like about Rejuvenate! is that it has chia seeds right in it, providing my favorite green superfood (chlorella) with my favorite seeds (chia). This is the most energizing superfood ever, and satisfies hunger for hours (because the fiber allows the seeds' complex carbs to be broken down and assimilated slowly, rather than pouring sugars quickly into the bloodstream, as happens with refined carbs that provide few nutrients and little fiber). It's an excellent meal replacement, too, especially when you're too busy to prepare a meal. I like to put it in carrot juice for a supercharged drink.
I'm pretty convinced that if you eat enough chlorella and chia seeds, you won't need to take essential fatty acid supplements (on an ongoing basis). In fact, I give my cats chia seeds, too, and I've noticed their fur is smoother. One of my friends adds ground chia with canned pumpkin to her cat's food, and this cat is gradually being cured of its diabetes. This makes me think of the native Americans, who have such high rates of diabetes as a group. They used to eat chia, but gradually they've mostly adopted modern 'fast-food' culture. I think chia seeds would really benefit them, especially because it's one of their traditional staple foods. But given the epidemic of obesity and blood-sugar problems in America, not to mention the deficiencies of essential fats in most diets, chia seeds are one of the ultimate 'no-brainers' to my way of thinking. Preventive medicine from a plant...that just makes too much sense!
Note that regarding chia seeds, there's been lots of debate about the white seeds versus the black seeds. Turns out that there's basically no difference between white and black seeds except price. Hybridized 'pure' white seeds cost ten times more than natural seeds, but don't offer any real nutritional advantage. Tests show that the profiles of essential fats and protein content are similar for black and white seeds. Any real differences in nutrients are due to where the seeds are grown (e.g., soil type, climate, and environmental factors). Actually, if you look closely, chia comes in a variety of colors, with so-called 'white' seeds often being light-gray, and so-called 'black' seeds being closer to dark brown in color. And there's every shade in between.
I'm sure some agribusiness corporation would love to patent these seeds (and you can bet they will try to genetically modify them someday), but if consumers demand organic (non-gmo) chia, it won't matter whose trying to fool mother nature (except if there's too much cross-contamination, which is a serious issue these days). Anyway, regarding black vs. white seed, you can read more: www.chiaseedandoil.com/blackwhite.html
This brand comes in a spill-resistant container, unlike those flimsy bags that break scattering chia everywhere. I find it helpful to grind (or at least thoroughly chew) the seeds because I assimilate the oils better that way, but it's not necessary. You can Google all kinds of recipes and it's fun to experiment in the kitchen with new ways of using chia.
For more info chia, you can read both James Scheer's Magic of Chia, and Ayerza and Coates's Chia: Rediscovering a Forgotten Crop of the Aztecs. Scheer's book is a lighter, easier read, and very informative in a entertaining way. In contrast, Ayerza and Coates are university researchers who present chia in more technical fashion. It's not light reading at all, but for example, they offer up the scientific studies and plenty of tables and charts. Lots of detailed information on specific fatty acids profiles. And plenty of history. I recommend both books, if you want to learn about chia. Try your local library, or find used copies online. After reading these books (or just consuming chia for a few weeks), you'll likely see why everyone's talking about chia. It's one of those must-have superfoods that belongs in every kitchen.
0 likes
Posted by Saskia on Apr 15, 2008 · Member since Jan 2007 · 1976 posts
Flax? Can someone confirm whether flax oil has these things or can be fortified with it?
(If you are talking ALA or DHA,) flax and hemp oils have high ratios of omega 3 to 6 (a good thing) but go rancid easily and can not be heated. Flax seeds should be ground from what I've read, and are another source. I use Deva brand algae-derived vegan DHA tablets, bought from ebay for the cheapest price... I think $30 for 90 days worth. There are other brands out there too.
I eat ground flax on top of salads, soy yogurt/fruit, and mix it in with all of my baking endeavors. I am not sure if it has the things that you are looking for, but it is a great supplement!
The body synthesizes EPA/DHA from ALA. I had to look it up, because I couldn't remember the ratio of Omega 3 (ALA) and Omega 6 (LA) we're supposed to get. What I found was that veg*ns get proportionately too much Omega 6, which interferes with Omega 3 absorption, so it's best to eat Omega 3 sources that are proportionately low in Omega 6 for balance.
I pulled the following from http://www.vegsoc.org/info/omega3.html:
Flaxseed oil 1 tablespoon (14g) provides 8.0g of ALA and relatively insignificant levels of LA
Flaxseed, ground 1 tablespoon (24g) provides 3.8g of ALA
Rape Seed (canola) oil 1 tablespoon (14g) provides 1.6g of ALA and only twice as much LA
Walnuts 1 oz (28g) provides 2.6g of ALA but also four times as much LA
Tofu 4.5oz (126g) provides 0.7g of ALA but also seven times as much LA
Flax does not contain the DHA form of Omega 3. DHA comes from only two known sources: Fish or Blue-Green Algae. Luckily there are a lot of supplement companies that cater to non fish-eating people. Spectrum just came out with a flax oil that has DHA (from algae) added. I personally take "Health from the Sea 100% Vegetarian Omega-3 DHA"....it's veggie caps. You can find that on their website: www.healthfromthesun.com Or try your nearest health food store to see what they have. Try supporting the independent stores first before going to the chains.
There's also a Kombucha drink by G.T.'s that has blue-green algae in it. It's their Green flavor. There's also Spirulina, Wheatgrass, and Chlorella in it. Some people actually like the flavor, but I think it' like drinking carbonated vinegar. It's good for you though! :D
Thanks Laura, that's the information I was looking for.
If the body synthesizes EPA/DHA from ALA and you eat a diet containing ALA, what are the benefits of EPA/DHA supplements?
If the body synthesizes EPA/DHA from ALA and you eat a diet containing ALA, what are the benefits of EPA/DHA supplements?
Good point! The only times taking that supplement would benefit you are: 1) You don't get enough ALA in your diet. Or, even if you do, our bodies make only limited amounts, but they are found abundantly in the oils of certain fish and in micro algae (that's how the fish get it). 2) You are pregnant. Doctors are now prescribing prenatal multivitamins with DHA in them. 3) If you are taking DHA as a supplement (medication) for cardiovascular problems, or certain skin problems, or to enhance immunity, etc.
Ironically enough, (as with Vitamin C and Zinc), taking excess amounts of DHA can actually result in a depressed immune system. I personally take my DHA with Flax Oil once or twice a week.
Speaking of flax seed, I'm curious about whether Black sesame seed also contain ALA. They do great things with black sesame seed here and I'm crazy for it. ;) Also, flax seed is not cheap or regularly available.
Anybody know offhand?
thanks!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ferret Research: http://ferretknots.blogspot.com/
Ferret Resources: http://nippynihon.blogspot.com/
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I don't know, but I just found Nuts Online (http://www.nutsonline.com/health_nuts.html). They sell nuts, but they also have a nice chart about which nuts contain which vitamins and minerals.
Some people lack the ability to make the conversion from ALA to DHA/EPA. This can be due to old age, poor nutrition or what have you. Therefore it's probably best to get your nutrients in a well rounded diet. Don't forget that chlorella has both omega 3's (EPA- 30-40% of total fats) as well as omega 6 not to mention protein (62% or more), nucleic acids, and a host of other nutrients. Although I do take supplements, I try to get the most out of what I eat and find chlorella or Rejuvenate (a product with chlorella, spirulina, nutritional yeast, RNA, chia, dulse, kelp, etc) to be packed with nutrients. It seems to me better to get the whole algae rather than just the EPA extracted in a capsule (but it's good that it's offered that way for those who aren't into the green). For more details on chlorella try this very informative webpage: http://www.integratedhealth.com/infoabstract/chlorella.htm
Or Bernard Jensens's Chlorella, Jewel of the Far East
Silk makes a plain soymilk with DHA added & their website claims its from a vegan source. It's in a blue container & called Silk Plus.
Yes, it's definitely true that most vegetarians and vegans get far more omega-6 than omega-3 fatty acids. The problem is that the remedy has been omega-3 supplements that don't provide much balance. You want at least 4:1 ratio (omega-3 to omega-6) in your diet. This balance is very important, from a health standpoint.
Chia seeds provide this idea 4:1 ratio, and so are especially ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
Also, although the body can convert alpha-linolenic acids (ALA) to EPA and DHA, as someone mentioned, this conversion isn't always complete, especially if you have nutritional deficiencies, enzyme imbalances, etc. While fatty acids supplements are useful, one way to boost your ability to convert and assimilate ALA (i.e.., to get your DHA) is to take a full-spectrum multivitamin, a good vitamin C formula, and eat a very well-balanced diet (lots of organic leafy greens and colorful vegetables/fruits), and eat high-ALA foods like chia seeds and chlorella.
In terms of superfoods, I would recommend chia seeds, chlorella, spirulina, nutritional yeast or yeast RNA, and a good vegetarian-source protein like Living Fuel Rx (SuperGreens or SuperBerry) (rice and pea sources). There's a lot of other superfoods out there, so do a little research, and see what you like best. Eating superfoods along with a balanced diet will go far in helping you maintain the nutritional status necessary fully to convert ALA into all the fatty acids your body needs for good health. Give your body what it needs...and it will give you back what you need!
Hi!
This product is what my friends are taking. Rich in DHA and omega 3. Maybe you can surf around the site for more info. Anything you can email me or drop me message at gaominglongAThotmailDOTcom
http://www.indinine.biz/product/indinine.html
You do know your stuff! And good point about the chia being well balanced. I was never all that big on flax seeds but these little seeds I love! They can be sprinkled anywhere- like sesame seeds.
I also wanted to mention related to an above posting about grinding flax- if you are going to do this best to freeze or use immediately to prevent the oils from going rancid. OR try grinding chia seeds (or not grinding them!). I have started doing this in my smoothies and really like the nutty flavor- not the mention all the health benefits. AND they won't go rancid!! So, grind and leave them out on your counter if you'd like!
Oh, and don't forget, chlorella has EPA in it according to my reference (Dr. Bernard Jensen) and not just ALA as you mentioned. The quantity may vary according to species, I'm not sure.
Most commercial essential fatty acid supplements are derived from fish oils, so that's another reason to go with chlorella, chia seeds, and other plant-based superfoods.
Chlorella is sold in most health food stores in tablet form, which is convenient, but more expensive. I tend to save the tablets for when I'm traveling, and use the powder form on an everyday basis. Chlorella powder is available from many sources. Here's where I get my raw, non-gmo, pesticide-free chlorella powder:
www.integratedhealth.com/hpdspec/chlorella.html
I keep chlorella in the freezer (or refrigerator) because it's hygroscopic (i.e., it absorbs moisture), which really helps preserve freshness (no fishy odor). This chlorella tastes a bit like green tea (interestingly enough) and in fact I sometimes put it in my tea, after a friend suggested trying it. It's quite tasty in tea, if you just use a small amount.
If you like chlorella, you'll enjoy reading Bernard Jensen's Chlorella: Jewel of the Far East, as someone already mentioned. Few people know that Jensen also wrote an earlier book with lots of beautiful pictures and more detailed information titled, Chlorella: Gem of the Orient. I read both books. The first one is a good place to start, but the second one is really a tour de force. I also recommend a free online book by Mike Adams (aka, 'the Heath Ranger') titled Superfoods for Optimum Health: Chlorella and Spirulina. This is the most up-to-date resource, and best of all its a totally free online book, accessible from any web browser. Read it here: www.chlorellafactor.com
Recenty, I found a spectacular superfood that contains chlorella, but also offers a full spectrum of nutrients. I still take chlorella every day, but I'm beginning to love this stuff called Rejuvenate!. I don't think there's anything out there like this formula: www.integratedhealth.com/featured-health-products/rejuvenate.html
What I like about Rejuvenate! is that it has chia seeds right in it, providing my favorite green superfood (chlorella) with my favorite seeds (chia). This is the most energizing superfood ever, and satisfies hunger for hours (because the fiber allows the seeds' complex carbs to be broken down and assimilated slowly, rather than pouring sugars quickly into the bloodstream, as happens with refined carbs that provide few nutrients and little fiber). It's an excellent meal replacement, too, especially when you're too busy to prepare a meal. I like to put it in carrot juice for a supercharged drink.
I'm pretty convinced that if you eat enough chlorella and chia seeds, you won't need to take essential fatty acid supplements (on an ongoing basis). In fact, I give my cats chia seeds, too, and I've noticed their fur is smoother. One of my friends adds ground chia with canned pumpkin to her cat's food, and this cat is gradually being cured of its diabetes. This makes me think of the native Americans, who have such high rates of diabetes as a group. They used to eat chia, but gradually they've mostly adopted modern 'fast-food' culture. I think chia seeds would really benefit them, especially because it's one of their traditional staple foods. But given the epidemic of obesity and blood-sugar problems in America, not to mention the deficiencies of essential fats in most diets, chia seeds are one of the ultimate 'no-brainers' to my way of thinking. Preventive medicine from a plant...that just makes too much sense!
Note that regarding chia seeds, there's been lots of debate about the white seeds versus the black seeds. Turns out that there's basically no difference between white and black seeds except price. Hybridized 'pure' white seeds cost ten times more than natural seeds, but don't offer any real nutritional advantage. Tests show that the profiles of essential fats and protein content are similar for black and white seeds. Any real differences in nutrients are due to where the seeds are grown (e.g., soil type, climate, and environmental factors). Actually, if you look closely, chia comes in a variety of colors, with so-called 'white' seeds often being light-gray, and so-called 'black' seeds being closer to dark brown in color. And there's every shade in between.
I'm sure some agribusiness corporation would love to patent these seeds (and you can bet they will try to genetically modify them someday), but if consumers demand organic (non-gmo) chia, it won't matter whose trying to fool mother nature (except if there's too much cross-contamination, which is a serious issue these days). Anyway, regarding black vs. white seed, you can read more: www.chiaseedandoil.com/blackwhite.html
In fact, I enjoy a mixture of organic black, tan, and white seeds:
www.integratedhealth.com/hpdspec/chia.html
This brand comes in a spill-resistant container, unlike those flimsy bags that break scattering chia everywhere. I find it helpful to grind (or at least thoroughly chew) the seeds because I assimilate the oils better that way, but it's not necessary. You can Google all kinds of recipes and it's fun to experiment in the kitchen with new ways of using chia.
For more info chia, you can read both James Scheer's Magic of Chia, and Ayerza and Coates's Chia: Rediscovering a Forgotten Crop of the Aztecs. Scheer's book is a lighter, easier read, and very informative in a entertaining way. In contrast, Ayerza and Coates are university researchers who present chia in more technical fashion. It's not light reading at all, but for example, they offer up the scientific studies and plenty of tables and charts. Lots of detailed information on specific fatty acids profiles. And plenty of history. I recommend both books, if you want to learn about chia. Try your local library, or find used copies online. After reading these books (or just consuming chia for a few weeks), you'll likely see why everyone's talking about chia. It's one of those must-have superfoods that belongs in every kitchen.
Has anyone tried Udo's Oil before?
http://udoerasmus.com/products/oil_blend_DHA_en.htm
The guy at Whole Foods said this was the best stuff for EPA.
a friend of mine swears by it. I will buy it next time I run out of hemp oil
Has anyone tried Udo's Oil before?
http://udoerasmus.com/products/oil_blend_DHA_en.htm
The guy at Whole Foods said this was the best stuff for EPA.