Like many people, you might have questions about those ads you’ve seen on TV or in magazines for a prescription fish oil pill called Lovaza. Questions like: Do I really need a prescription for fish oil? And is Lovaza really better than a fish oil supplement I can buy at my health food store? The answer to both questions is a resounding no. In fact, an independent comparison found that there’s nothing in Lovaza that can’t be found in many quality non-prescription fish oils that are typically less expensive and certainly more convenient.

Here are the facts:

• Lovaza contains only 840mg combined of beneficial EPA and DHA Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil—about 200mg less than the leading maximum-strength fish oil supplement.
• Lovaza costs approximately $180 dollars for 120 pills (a 1-month supply)—about $150 more than the leading maximum-strength fish oil supplement.
• The recommended daily dose of Lovaza is 4 per day. Many non-prescription fish oil supplements come in an easier one-a-day dose.
• Lovaza capsules are not enteric-coated. (In vitro studies show 3X more Omega-3 absorption with enteric-coated capsules when compared with non-coated capsules.)
• Lovaza does not include lipase, an essential fat-splitting enzyme necessary for complete oil digestion in the body.
• Lovaza soft-gel capsules are made from both pork- and beef-derived gelatin. Many leading non-prescription fish oil supplements use superior fish-derived gelatin capsules.
• Lovaza fish oil capsules are unflavored, while many non-prescription supplements include natural orange or lemon flavor to help lessen fishy aftertaste.
• Lovaza does not include any added beneficial ingredients such as vitamin D₃.

In fact, the only thing that sets Lovaza apart from the leading maximum-strength fish oil supplement is that it has been approved by the FDA to “treat a specific condition” (i.e. high triglycerides). However, the majority of premium non-prescription fish oils undergo strict purification processes to ensure purity, potency and freshness and are guaranteed safe and effective by International Fish Oil Standards.

About the Benefits of Fish Oil…

Experts like the American Heart Association agree that taking a daily fish oil supplement is one of the best things you can do for your body, since fish-derived Omega-3 fatty acids help to nourish active tissues in the body like those found in the heart, brain, eyes and joints. Not only that, but beneficial Omega-3s help with digestion and bowel regularity, and current research links a diet rich in Omega-3 fats with enhanced memory, mood, and even improved fat metabolism.

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Sure, good digestion has a lot to do with what you put on your plate. But it’s also about making sure your body has the tools it needs to break down your food and support healthy elimination. That’s why natural digestive care expert Brenda Watson developed the H.O.P.E. Formula. In addition to a sensible diet and regular exercise, this 4-part daily nutritional program is the key to improving digestion and living healthier every day.

High Fiber. Studies show that people who eat at least 25-35 grams of fiber every day are less likely to suffer from constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive disorders. Fiber adds bulk to the stool, helps absorb toxins in the intestines and ‘sweeps’ the colon free of waste and debris. A high-fiber diet has also been linked to weight loss, lower cholesterol and heart health. Sources: fruits, veggies, whole grains, beans & legumes; fiber supplements.

Omega Oils. Fish-derived Omega oils such as Omega-3 EPA and DHA help nourish and support the cells of the colon to promote optimal digestive health. They also help to soothe and lubricate the bowel to ease elimination and promote regularity. In addition, research links these beneficial oils to improved heart and brain function, as well as healthy skin and joints. Sources: Smaller, cold-water fish; some leafy green vegetables; Omega oil supplements.

Probiotics. Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria in your digestive tract that work to crowd out disease-causing microorganisms that can contribute to poor health. Experts agree that daily supplementation with a high-potency, multi-strain probiotic formula can help support a balanced intestinal environment, improve digestion and promote bowel regularity. Sources: Fermented foods such as yogurt & kefir; probiotic supplements.

Enzymes. Digestive enzymes are found in raw foods and help the body break down the food you eat and absorb needed nutrients. Because cooking and processing can destroy the natural enzymes in food, daily supplementation is essential. Plant-based enzyme formulas provide the greatest benefit, as they are effective over a broader range of pH levels in the body. Sources: Raw whole foods; digestive enzyme supplements.

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