My husband’s doctor recommended fish oil for him and every morning with his other vitamins, he takes this large, yellow oily looking thing. Since we all hear that fish is good for us because it contains Omega 3 fatty acids, I decided to read up on it.

The “fatty acid” part didn’t sound especially healthy, so I read all I could to straighten that out. Fish oil is taken from the skin of some fish – not the fish itself. The skin contains microalgae. As the fatty-acid fish are big algae connoisseurs and don’t accumulate as much toxin in their systems as shark or swordfish, most fish oils come from less-predatory creatures such as salmon, sardines and herring. (I guess salmon, herring and sardines are too small to overpower a skin diver or vacationing snorkelers. Now that’s a real fish story!)

Studies of fish oil use reveal a decrease in clinical depression (I guess fish are happy) and potential anti-cancer properties for those suffering from breast, colon and prostate cancer. (The American Heart Association recommends the consumption of only 1 gram of fish oil daily but emphasizes the importance of eating actual fish as opposed to popping supplements.)

Talk to your doctor about fish oil, as the dosage is also related to body weight. If you take the supplement, take it with a big glass of water.

God gave us two ears and one mouth, and as much as I want to use them proportionately, I usually don’t. I find myself making decisions for my mom and not always listening. My concern for her overshadows the fact that she’s her own person and can make intelligent decisions without my hovering like a buzzard. I’m glad she likes salmon!

Marla Luckhardt is a Discovery Bay resident and member of the East Contra Costa Senior Coalition. She works with several local senior care and advocacy groups. To contact her, e-mail marla2054@aol.com.