320: Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation - Is it Beneficial? with Dr. Tim Radak

In this episode of I AM HUMAN, we learn from Dr. Tim Radak about the potential harms and benefits of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, especially from fish oil. We also discuss some caveats and what he feels is truly the best way to decrease our risk of chronic disease and increase longevity. This is a great episode if you are already or are considering supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids. 

Dr. Radak, a seasoned dietitian and academic, shares his extensive research on the history, benefits, and controversies surrounding omega-3 supplements, particularly DHA and EPA. We discuss the harmful impact of mercury contamination in seafood due to industrial waste, the conversion pathway of ALA to DHA/EPA, and the relevance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. The conversation also touches on whether plant-based eaters should consider algal oil supplements and what current data suggests about their advantages and potential drawbacks. 

Dr. Tim Radak has extensive experience in public health leadership and academia, having held roles in various nonprofit organizations focused on cancer prevention, health promotion, and nutrition. With over a decade of teaching at the graduate level, he transitioned to Walden University, where he currently serves as the academic program coordinator for the PhD in Public Health program. Dr. Radak's scholarly contributions include numerous peer-reviewed articles, textbook chapters, and media appearances, reflecting his expertise as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board member of the Human Ecology Project, U.K. 

Discussion points: 

• (00:00) Dr. Radak intro and background, Do we need Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation? 
• (05:00) Dr. Radak’s journey into plant-based 
• (10:00) Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation debate, history, studies, evidence, reinforcement in the multibillion $ industry 
• (25:10) Mercury and heavy metal pollution in fish, US government advises against fish for pregnant mothers and young children 
• (27:47) ALA, DHA, EPA and non-fish sources 
• (32:40) Ratios and recommendations for essential fatty acids 
• (38:00) Recommended tests - adipose tissues 
• (45:50) Inflammation markers in plant-based eaters, algal supplements 
• (47:16) How should we proceed? Longevity recommendations, is supplementing necessary? 
• (53:10) Closing questions, what we wish people knew, health is #1 in order to reach your goals in life 
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Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please consult a healthcare professional. 

The I AM HUMAN podcast explores topics such as plant-based nutrition, lifestyle medicine, personal development, and spirituality to promote health, well-being, longevity, and joy and help you craft your best life yet. Subscribe today, and send your feedback to podcast@doctoryami.com 

Dr. Yami is a board-certified pediatrician, certified lifestyle medicine physician, national board-certified health and wellness coach, author and international speaker. She is a passionate promoter of healthy lifestyles, especially the power of plant-based diets for the prevention of chronic disease. She hosts the popular podcast I AM HUMAN (formerly Veggie Doctor Radio) which boasts listeners from 98 countries and more than a million downloads to date. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, has a certificate in plant-based nutrition and is a certified Food for Life Instructor. Dr. Yami owns Nourish Wellness, a pediatric practice in Yakima, Washington where she lives with her husband and two sons. Her book is called “A Parent’s Guide to Intuitive Eating: How to Raise Kids Who Love to Eat Healthy”. You can learn more about Dr. Yami at DoctorYami.com. 

Resources: 

Dr. Radak 

More From Dr. Yami: 

TEDx Talk - http://bit.ly/DOCTORYAMITEDX 

A Parent's Guide to Intuitive Eating: How to Raise Kids Who Love to Eat Healthy by Dr. Yami - https://amzn.to/4edSFHx 

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