A great deal of research demonstrates that, not only are the benefits of fish oil numerous, some of them are really very extraordinary! It seems that new research is being produced all the time, as scientists and doctors learn even more about how and why it is so beneficial. The omega-3 fatty acids that are found in fish oil are “good fats” that are necessary for health. They are necessary for our health but our bodies can’t make them – you must obtain them from your diet. Here are some proven fish oil health benefits that should convince you to consume more oil rich, wild-caught fish and/or begin taking a quality fish oil supplement if you’re not already!
Promotes Cardiovascular Wellness & Protects Against Heart Attack and Stroke
Fish oil continues to grow in scientific credibility as a significant promoter of heart health. According to statements from the American Heart Association, fish oil is effective in lessening the incidence of heart disease and helps to reduce risk factors such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Clinical studies of heart attack survivors have discovered that daily consumption of omega-3 capsules drastically minimize the risk of death, subsequent heart attacks and stroke. Omega-3s also reduce blood triglycerides, help correct abnormal heart rhythms, and can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by preventing the formation of plaque and blood clots, which typically clog arteries.
Decreases Inflammation/Pain
Omega-3s have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. Lab studies suggest that diets high in omega-3s (and low in the pro-inflammatory omega-6s) may benefit people with inflammation-based conditions — anything that ends in -itis!. Fish oil has have also been used to successfully treat back, neck and menstrual pain, helping study participants to reduce their consumption of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication.
Contributes to Healthy Joints and Minimizes Symptoms of Arthritis
The omega-3s in fish oil reduce tenderness in joints, pain intensity and morning stiffness caused by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, many lab studies have found that omega-3s actually inhibit the action of enzymes that break down cartilage. At least 13 published scientific trials have demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acids are highly beneficial at treating rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil has helped those with RA to reduce their dependence on pain medicine.
Enhances Mental Acuity & Long-Term Cognitive Function
Did you know that omega-3s, particularly DHA, are highly prevalent in our brains? They’re important for optimum cognitive (brain memory and performance) and behavioral function, as well as normal growth and development. Trials show that omega-3s may aid in achieving proper cognitive functioning and possibly in preventing or delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We also now know that it’s very important that pregnant women get enough DHA, which is required by the developing fetus — in the third trimester of pregnancy, the fetus’ brain grows at a rate of a quarter million new neurons every minute! Kids are also aided by fish oil intake, as numerous studies have shown that omega-3s enhance learning, focus, reading and vocabulary skills. Countless studies have also shown efficacy in treating ADD.
Supports Positive Mood & Emotional Wellness
In countries where fish is a large part of the diet, national rates of depression are lower. So, it’s not surprising that studies have found that fish oil supplements can mitigate the symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and psychosis. Several studies have found that participants that took fish oil in addition to prescription anti-depressants had a larger improvement in symptoms than those that only took antidepressants, with patients experiencing a stabilizing effect and less mood swings. Trials have also shown that, when prisoners were administered fish oil, there was a marked drop in hostile behavior. Omega-3s also seem to lower the risk of postnatal depression.
Promotes Vision Wellness
Evidence shows that people with a higher omega-3 intake appear to have a lower risk of Dry-Eye Syndrome and developing age-related macular degeneration. Early studies also show that omega-3 supplementation aids in alleviating dry eye symptoms, may help to inhibit macular degeneration for people already developing it and improves ocular health in general.
Pregnancy, Infant Eye & Brain Development & Reduced Occurrence of Childhood Disorders
DHA makes up 15-20% of the cerebral cortex and 30-60% of the retina, so it is absolutely essential for normal development of the fetus and baby. Prenatal DHA availability also appears to decrease likelihood of childhood allergies and have an effect on motor skill quality, cognitive development and behavior/hyperactivity later in the child’s life. 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 trigger “I’m full” signals to the brain and aid in inhibiting hunger signals. Research has also demonstrated that fish oil improves the effectiveness of exercise in reducing body fat. Volunteers who were alloted fish oil as part of their diet showed greater decreases in weight as contrasted with 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 volunteers.
Reduces Risk of Colorectal, Breast & Prostate Cancers
Though additional research in this area is desperately needed, we now know that the omega 3’s that appear in fish oil help in the prevention and treatment of testicular, prostate, breast and ovarian cancers. Preliminary studies imply that taking fish oil daily can help slow the progression of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease and may even have the ability to cause apoptosis (cell death) in cancerous cells.
More can be written about the many fish oil benefits. And, as the scientific community and doctors continue to research omega-3s, you can bet that fish oil will keep making news as the ideal source of these essential fatty acids that are so vital to our bodies. Even if you’re currently in good physical condition, a high quality fish oil supplement is the simplest, safest way to realize and maintain optimal health!
Brittany M. Wallace is a health and nutrition expert who has been studying the benefits of omega-3 for nearly 10 years. You can learn all about the benefits of omega 3 fish oil by visiting her site.