Why Omega-3 Fatty Acids Are Essential for Heart, Brain, and Hormone Health

Dr. Tara Steinke
Apr 6
3 min read

If you're navigating the world of natural medicine and wondering where to start with foundational supplements, omega-3 fatty acids are a powerful place to begin. As a licensed Naturopathic Doctor practicing in California and Arizona, I often recommend omega-3 supplements to my patients for heart health, mental clarity, hormone balance, and more.

And yet—despite the well-established benefits—most Americans are not getting enough omega-3s through diet alone. Let’s break down the research, the health benefits, and my personal product picks that are available in my Fullscript dispensary at a 10% discount.

Link to my favorite products (via Fullscript): CLICK HERE

🧠 What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

Omega-3s are essential fatty acids—your body needs them but can’t make them on its own. The two most biologically active forms are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), both commonly found in fish oil.

They play key roles in:

Reducing inflammation
Protecting cardiovascular health
Supporting brain function and mood
Regulating hormones
Enhancing cellular health and longevity

The Omega-3 Index: What You Should Know

Your Omega-3 Index is a simple blood test that measures the amount of EPA and DHA in your red blood cells.

Optimal Range: 8–12%
Average American: Only 4–5%
High Risk Zone: <4%, associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease and all-cause mortality

Testing your omega-3 levels is a smart step in preventative, root-cause-focused care, a hallmark of naturopathic medicine.

Research-Backed Benefits of Omega-3s

Modern research has confirmed the broad-reaching benefits of omega-3 fatty acids:

Heart Health: Reduces triglycerides, supports blood pressure regulation, improves arterial elasticity
Mental Health: May alleviate depression, anxiety, and improve cognitive function
Hormonal Balance: Supports healthy cortisol levels, improves menstrual regularity, and can be beneficial in menopause
Inflammation Reduction: Critical in managing autoimmune conditions and chronic pain

As a practitioner focused on practicing Naturopathic Medicine in San Diego and hormone therapy in San Diego and Phoenix, omega-3s are a go-to for both foundational wellness and specific treatment plans.

🌿 Best Food Sources of Omega-3s

Wild-caught salmon
Sardines
Mackerel
Chia seeds
Flaxseeds
Walnuts

While food is a foundational source, supplementation is often necessary to reach therapeutic levels—especially when treating chronic health concerns.

My Top Omega-3 Supplement Recommendations (Available in Fullscript)

All three of these professional-grade products are tested for oxidation, purity, and potency—exactly what I want for my patients and myself.

✅ 1. ProOmega® 2000 by Nordic Naturals

High-potency EPA and DHA
Third-party tested for purity and freshness
Easy-to-digest softgels
Ideal for patients with cardiovascular and cognitive health concerns

✅ 2. High Omega-3™ Fish Oil by Ayush Herbs

Sustainably sourced and molecularly distilled
Contains lipase for enhanced digestion and absorption
Trusted in Ayurvedic and integrative medicine circles

✅ 3. Omega MonoPure 1300 EC by Xymogen

Uses re-esterified triglyceride (rTG) form for superior bioavailability
Enteric coating reduces fishy aftertaste
Excellent for long-term, daily use

🌿 All of these products are available in my Fullscript dispensary with a 10% discount. 👉 Click here to shop my recommendations

Clinical Tip: Consider Testing Your Omega-3 Index

As part of a personalized wellness plan, I often recommend patients complete a simple Omega-3 Index test. This allows us to customize dosage and monitor results over time—a perfect example of the personalized care approach in Naturopathic Medicine.

Why Work with a Naturopathic Doctor?

As a licensed Naturopathic Doctor practicing in San Diego and Phoenix, I’ve seen firsthand how targeted supplementation, rooted in lab testing and lifestyle medicine, can help patients optimize their metabolism, balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and feel better—naturally.

Whether you're interested in hormone therapy in San Diego, improving your cardiometabolic health, or building a wellness plan that works for you, I’m here to help guide you with evidence-based, holistic care.