OMEGA FATTY ACID SUPPLEMENTATION

Omega fatty acids are nutrients that have a number of beneficial effects in various health conditions.  Choosing the right supplement can be complicated, however.  Some basic science and helpful suggestions are listed below:

There are two different types of  Omega Fatty Acids that have medical uses, and they have different effects.  Omega 3 FAs have anti-inflammatory and immune modulating effects, and they are used for skin conditions, heart and kidney disease, immune problems, and as an aid in cancer therapy.   Omega 6 FAs improve the quality of the skin and haircoat, but they may also increase inflammation; immune disease, heart disease, and cancer patients should receive only small amounts of Omega 6 FAs.

OMEGA 3 FAs include alpha linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexanaenoic acid (DHA).  ALA is found in flaxseed oil, but it is not very effective until the body turns it into the active forms of EPA and DHA.  Although humans convert ALA readily, dogs do not, so flaxseed oil often gives disappointing results.  For arthritis, only EPA has been found to have beneficial effects. Marine fish oils are rich in EPA and DHA, but fish oil products frequently do not contain as much of these oils as claimed on the label (from a maximum of 30% Omega 3s down to none at all).  Capsules containing pure omega 3 FAs are the most reliable source of these nutrients.

OMEGA 6 FAs also have important functions in the skin.  Omega 6s include linoleic acid (LA) and gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Safflower and  corn oils contain moderate amounts of LA, while evening primrose and borage oils contain high amounts of GLA.  Since many dogs with skin problems cannot convert LA to the more active GLA, the supplement should contain at least some GLA along with the LA.

Any fatty acid product will turn rancid if not protected with antioxidants.  Usually Vitamin E (tocopherol) is added to prevent deterioration of the Omega FAs.

Animal fats, such as bacon grease, contain no Omega FAs, and have no benefit other than as a source of calories.

Foods that advertise added Omega FAs still need to be supplemented.  These foods may only have 1/50th of the dose contained in 1 capsule of a supplement.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Dogs with  skin problems that are flaky and itchy often benefit from a coat supplement that contains both Omega 3 (EPA and DHA) and Omega 6 (LA and GLA).  Ideal ration of Omega 3 to Omega 6 is felt to be 1:10.  Suggested dosage for each 20# of dog's weight is:  

 Omega3(EPA+DHA) 45mg and Omega 6 (LA+GLA) 500mg per 20# body weight

SUGGESTED PRODUCT: DERM-CAPS

For other medical indications, including allergic itching, immune diseases, heart and kidney problems, and cancer, a supplement containing Omega 3 (EPA, DHA) is suggested.  Suggested amount varies with health condition.  Dogs with arthritis should receive a supplement with maximum content of EPA.   Recommended dose for your pet: 

Omega3, including 360mg EPA and 260mg DHA  per 20# body weight

SUGGESTED PRODUCT:  EICOSADERM