Ballstad Articles and Blogs

A doctor in a white coat holding a red heart-shaped model, symbolizing heart health, with a stethoscope around the neck, representing medical care and cardiology.

AHA Issues New Advisory About Omega-3s & High Triglycerides

January 10, 2022

Omega-3 fatty acids have long been associated with heart health. On August 19th, the American Heart Association (AHA) released a new advisory highlighting the benefits of prescription omega-3s in lowering...

A scientific lab setting showing transparent capsules of fish oil on a glossy surface, alongside a petri dish containing various supplements, a small beaker, and a graduated cylinder.

The Long, Winding Road of Omega-3 Research: A Brief History According to Dr. Bill Harris

January 07, 2022

OmegaQuant’s Dr. Bill Harris has been studying omega-3s EPA and DHA for the last 35 years.

Overweight woman enjoying fast food meal with burger, fries, nuggets, and soda at restaurant — concept of unhealthy eating and high-calorie diet

Omega-3 Levels Are LOW Across America’s ‘Stroke Belt’

January 07, 2022

The term “stroke belt” refers to a cluster of southeastern U.S. states—like Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and South Carolina—where the risk of stroke and heart disease is significantly higher than the...

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Is Omega-6 Good for You?

January 07, 2022

Some people might be surprised to hear that omega-6 fatty acids are not necessarily the villains they’ve often been made out to be. This article may sound scientific, but it...

Close-up of a doctor in a white coat holding a detailed anatomical model of the human brain in both hands, symbolizing brain health and medical care.

This Is Your Brain On Omega-3s

January 07, 2022

The human brain weighs around 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs), and surprisingly, about 60% of it is composed of fat. This high-fat content is essential — not something to be cut...

Pregnant woman in a striped shirt holding yellow omega-3 fish oil capsules in one hand and a glass of water in the other, highlighting the importance of DHA supplements during pregnancy.

3 Ways DHA Supports Moms and Babies

January 07, 2022

Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but it can also feel overwhelming. There are many guidelines about what to do and what to avoid. Staying active is important. Aim for 30...

A close-up image of omega-3 fish oil capsules in a white dish next to a raw salmon fillet, symbolizing dietary sources of EPA and DHA.

Are You Getting Enough Omega-3s? New Research Says Probably Not…

January 07, 2022

A new chapter in the omega-3 story reveals that many people may not be getting enough EPA and DHA to reach protective levels for heart health—despite following standard recommendations. Recent...

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People with More of These Nutrients in Their Blood Tend to Live Longer, Healthier Lives

January 07, 2022

Pursuing the fountain of youth becomes all the more relevant as you age. But the key to aging these days is not just extending life, but continuing to remain healthy...

Three people working out in a gym with morning sunlight streaming in—one person using battle ropes, another doing push-ups, and the third lifting dumbbells while lying on their back.

5 Reasons to Take Omega-3s Before Your Next Workout

January 07, 2022

Most people connect omega-3s with heart and brain health, but did you know they can also be quite useful if you are an athlete or lead an active lifestyle? From...

eggs, dairy, herbs, cheese and salmon on dark background with vitamin d written on a black board next to it.

4 Things Vitamin D and Omega-3s Have in Common

January 07, 2022

Both vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that contribute to a wide array of health benefits. Thousands of clinical studies have examined their roles—separately and together—revealing overlapping...

A close-up image of translucent yellow omega-3 fish oil capsules on a wooden surface, brightly lit to emphasize their glossy, smooth texture.

What does a nutrient have to do to get some respect around here?

January 07, 2022

A highly anticipated report from the Cochrane Collaboration recently made headlines by questioning the heart-protective benefits of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids — EPA and DHA. However, this sweeping conclusion has...

Close-up of a fingertip with a small drop of blood shaped like a heart, symbolizing health, wellness, and blood testing.

What is the Omega-3 Index?

January 07, 2022

The Omega-3 Index is more than just a buzzword in nutrition science. It's both a biomarker and a risk factor for heart disease — similar in importance to cholesterol. But...