Health benefits of taking Omega 3 Fish Oil.

What is Fish Oil?

Fish oil can be obtained from eating fish or by taking supplements. Fish that are especially rich in the beneficial oils known as omega-3 fatty acids include mackerel, herring, tuna, salmon, cod liver, whale blubber, and seal blubber. Two of the most important omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Make sure to see separate listings on EPA and DHA, as well as Cod Liver Oil, and Shark Liver Oil.

Fish oil is FDA approved to lower triglycerides levels, but it is also used for many other conditions. It is most often used for conditions related to the heart and blood  system. Some people use fish oil to lower blood pressure, triglycerides and cholesterol  levels. Fish oil has also been used for preventing heart disease or stroke, as well as for clogged arteries, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, bypass surgery, heart failure, rapid heartbeat, preventing blood clots, and high blood pressure after a heart transplant.

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Health benefits of  Fish Oil.

Depression.

DHA may help protect against depression, according to a 2010 research review from Biological Psychiatry.12

Investigators analyzed 14 studies on polyunsaturated fatty acid levels in depressive patients and found people with depression may be more likely to have low levels of DHA and EPA.

The study authors suggest that DHA and EPA may help reduce depressive symptoms and, in turn, may show promise as an alternative treatment for depression.

Prevent breast cancer.

Eating omega-3 rich fish could also help prevent breast cancer. Research in Asian countries where seafood is commonly eaten shows reduced breast cancer rates, for example. Scientists who work specifically in the field of breast cancer have long recommended the addition of omega-3s, although not all studies show the same positive results.

Fish oil and hypertension.

Fish oils have been thought of by many health practitioners to help reduce blood pressure and therefore lower cardiovascular risk.  A study has investigated these claims, alongside scientific evidence, and found that fish oils showed a very modest, real-life effect. The study determined that there was an effect of fish oils on blood pressure, and ruled out the possibility of pure chance. 3

There can be no argument that any reduction in high blood pressure is a good thing, but not at the expense of blood pressure medication. If you’re using blood pressure medication to treat high blood pressure, then it’s recommended to consult a medical professional before considering using or switching to fish oils to help further reduce your risk.

Skin Protection

According to preliminary research, high intake of omega-3 fats is associated with lower rates of skin cancer. Omega-3s may protect the skin by preventing the temporary suppression of the immune system caused by sunlight.

In 42 volunteers, EPA supplementation prevented UV skin damage as seen in skin cancer.

Fish oil decreases skin inflammation caused by UV light in another small trial.

Side effects of fish oil.

Although adding more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet is beneficial, there are a few concerns to keep in mind, particularly when using supplements:

— Always let your doctor or health provider know if you plan to use a supplement, including an omega-3 supplement, Gradney advises.

— Avoid consuming more than 3 grams of omega-3s a day — and no more than 2 grams from supplements — the Food and Drug Administration warns. A too-high dose could affect blood clotting and increase your risk for bleeding. This is particularly important if you use warfarin or other anticoagulant medicine.

— Some users experience belching or indigestion with omega-3 supplements.

— Some supplements have a fishy aftertaste.

Source.

*https://www.rxlist.com/fish_oil/supplements.html

*https://wtop.com/news/2019/10/5-best-food-sources-for-omega-3-fatty-acids/

*https://www.myprotein.co.in/blog/supplements/omega-3-what-is-it-what-are-the-benefits/