Did you know that 90% of the world is deficient in EPA & DHA, two critical omega-3 fats? In this episode, we sit down with Elana Natker, a Registered Dietitian and spokesperson with more than two decades of communications experience, to dive deep into the science of omega-3s and why they matter. Tune in for a practical, science-backed conversation that will change the way you think about fats in your diet.

We cover:

• What makes omega-3s unique and how they differ from other fats
• The best sources of EPA & DHA (not all fish are created equal!)
• The SMASH acronym for choosing the right fish
• How much EPA & DHA you really need 
• The impact on aging, mental health, recovery, and even post-concussion support
• Omega-6 fats and what to know about seed oils
• The Omega-3 Index: how to measure your levels
• Myth-busting common misconceptions about omega-3s

Links:

• Best Fish Sources of Omega-3s
• How to read an omega-3 supplement label
• Some trusted DHA/EPA supplement brands
• Global Organization for EPA & DHA Omega-3s
• 27:30 Elana’s perspective on the 2024 cohort study of fish oil supplementation in the BMJ
• Reach out to Dina or Bob to order your OmegaQuant Omega3 Index testing
• Dr. Michael Lewis concussion protocol
• International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand on Omega-3s

More about our guest:

Elana Natker, MS, RD, Director, Consumer and Health Practitioner Communications for GOED

Elana is a U.S. and U.K.-based, nationally recognized food and nutrition expert and spokesperson with more than two decades of communications experience. Her first job was as an on-camera spokesperson, which then led to a thriving career in public relations, working for major agencies in Chicago, Denver and Washington, D.C. Her client work in the areas of food, health and wellness piqued her interest in nutrition, so Elana went back to school to earn a master’s degree and undergo the training and testing required to become a registered dietitian. 

Her work with GOED, the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s, began in 2015, where she manages the organization’s consumer and health professional education and outreach. She is adept at translating complicated science in a way that both consumers and health influencers would understand. Her primary skills are in nutrition strategy, science-backed messaging, content development and health professional education. An accomplished speaker, Elana has also presented at industry events and for health professionals, including dietitians and nurse practitioners.

Elana is active in the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, having served as chairperson of Nutrition Entrepreneurs (NE) in 2018-19, among other leadership roles. She has also received several awards, including 2023 Outstanding Leader by the Dietitians in Business and Communications, and the 2017 Emerging Leader in Dietetics by the D.C. Metro Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 

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