A plethora of research studies show that, not only are fish oil benefits numerous, some of them are really very amazing! It seems that new research is being produced all the time, as scientists and physicians learn even more about how and why it is so beneficial. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are “good fats” that are vital to well-being. They are crucial for our health but the body can’t produce them — you must obtain them through diet. Here are some proven fish oil benefits that should persuade you to consume more oily,
wild-caught fish and begin taking a highly refined fish oil supplement if you’re not already!
Promotes Cardiovascular Wellness & Prevents Heart Attack and Stroke
Fish oil continues to grow in scientific credibility as an important promoter of heart health. According to the American Heart Association, fish oil is effective in lessening the incidence of heart disease and aids in reducing risk factors such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Research trials of heart attack survivors have found that daily consumption of fish oil capsules dramatically reduce the risk of dying, additional heart attacks and stroke. Omega-3s also decrease blood triglycerides, help correct irregular heart rhythms, and can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by preventing the formation of plaque and blood clots, which typically clog arteries.
Decreases Pain & Inflammation
Omega-3s have a powerful anti-inflammation effect.
Clinical studies show that diets high in omega-3s (and low in the pro-inflammatory omega-6s) may help people with inflammatory conditions — anything ending in –itis!. Fish oil has have also been used to successfully treat back, neck and menstrual pain, allowing study patients to reduce their intake of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Promotes Healthy Joints and Reduces Arthritis Symptoms
The omega-3s in fish oil reduce joint tenderness, pain intensity and morning stiffness caused by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, many test tube studies have found that omega-3s actually decrease the action of enzymes that destroy cartilage. At least 13 published research trials have demonstrated that fish oils are extremely beneficial at treating rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil has helped people with RA to reduce their dependence on pain killers.
Supports Mental Acuity & Long-Term Cognitive Function
Did you know that omega-3s, especially DHA, are highly concentrated in our brains? They’re essential for optimum cognitive (mental memorization and performance) and behavioral function, as well as proper growth and development. Studies demonstrate that omega-3s might aid in achieving adequate cognitive functioning and possibly in avoiding or delaying the emergence of dementia. We also have learned that it’s extremely important that pregnant women get enough DHA, because it’s crucial to the developing fetus — during the third trimester of pregnancy, the brain of the fetus grows at a rate of 250,000 new neurons each minute! Kids are also helped by omega-3 consumption, as numerous studies demonstrate that omega-3s improve learning, focus, reading and vocabulary skills. Many studies have even shown efficacy in treating ADD.
Supports Positive Mood & Emotional Well-being
In countries where fish is a major part of the diet, nationwide rates of depression are lower. So, it shouldn’t be surprising that studies have discovered that fish oil capsules can temper the symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and psychosis. Many clinical trials have shown that participants who took fish oil with their prescription anti-depressants had a greater improvement in symptoms than those that only took antidepressants, with patients experiencing a stabilizing effect and less mood swings. Research has also shown that, when prisoners were administered omega-3s, there was a significant drop in hostile behavior. Omega-3s also appear to reduce the risk of postpartum depression.
Promotes Eye Wellness
Studies show that people with a higher omega-3 intake appear to have a lower risk of Dry-Eye Syndrome and developing AMD, or age-related macular degeneration. Preliminary studies also show that fish oil supplements help in
lessening dry eye symptoms, may help to inhibit macular degeneration for those already developing it and improves ocular health in general.
Pregnancy, Infancy Brain/Vision Development & Reduced Occurrence of Childhood Disorders
DHA makes up 15-20% of the cerebral cortex and approximately 30-60% of the retina, so it is absolutely essential for normal growth and development of the fetus and baby. Prenatal DHA availability also seems to lessen likelihood
of childhood allergies and have an effect on motor skill quality, cognitive development and behavior/hyperactivity later in the life of
the child. Omega-3s also help to lower the risk of low birth weight and premature birth.
Enhances Metabolism of Fat and Weight Loss
According to the National Institute of Health, omega-3s transmit “I’m full” signals to the brain and help quash hunger signals. Research has also shown that fish oil improves the efficacy of exercise in reducing body fat. Volunteers who were given fish oil with their diet showed greater weight loss as compared to people who did not consume fish oil. Exercise combined with fish oil had a positive effect on the body shape and body composition of the participants.
Decreases Risk of Prostate, Breast & Colorectal Cancers
Though additional research in this area is urgently needed, we now know that the omega 3’s found in fish oil assist in the prevention and treatment of breast, prostate and ovarian cancers. Preliminary trials imply that consuming fish oil everyday can help inhibit the progression of colon cancer in those with early stages of the disease and may possibly have the ability to induce apoptosis (cellular death) of cancer cells.
Much more can be said about the many benefits of fish oil. And, as the science community and doctors continue to study omega-3s, you can be certain that fish oil will keep producing news as the best source of these essential fatty acids that are so vital to our bodies.
Even if you’re already in good physical condition, a high quality fish oil supplement is the fastest, safest way to achieve and maintain optimal health!
Brittany M. Wallace is a health and wellness authority, with particular expertise with fish oil health.