Your family does not like to eat fish but you are concerned that they are not getting enough omega-3 fatty acids. Your mother suggests that you all take fish oil supplements but you disagree. Give her any 2 reasons why she should not take fish oil supplements and suggest any 2 foods that could supply omega-3 fatty acids in place of fish


Fish oil supplements may provide omega-3 fatty acids at levels that are unsafe. Most fish have a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, but not at such a concentrated level as found in supplements. High levels of omega-3 fatty acids can impair blood clotting, which can lead to dangerous hemorrhages.
Fish oil supplements are produced from the fat under the skin of most fish. This tissue can accumulate high levels of toxic heavy metals such as methylmercury. Most supplements do not undergo rigorous testing since they are not subject to FDA approval. These fish oil supplements could thus contain toxic levels of heavy metals.
She could try flaxseed oil or crushed flaxseed with her food. Flaxseed contains omega-3 fatty acids at safe levels. She can also try eggs that contain omega-3 fatty acids or foods fortified with omega-3s.

Nutritional Science

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