A huge amount of studies indicate that, not only are the benefits of fish oil numerous, many of them are really very extraordinary! It seems sometimes like new studies are being published everyday, as researchers and doctors learn more and more about how and why it is so effective. The omega-3 fatty acids that appear in fish oil are "good fats" that are necessary for well-being. They are essential for human health but our bodies can't make them - you have to obtain them from your diet. Here are some proven fish oil health benefits that should persuade you to consume more oil rich, wild fish and start taking a high quality fish oil supplement if you're not already!
Promotes Heart Wellness & Prevents Heart Attack and Stroke
Fish oil continues to increase in scientific reputation as an important 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. Research trials of heart attack survivors have found that daily consumption of omega-3 capsules drastically reduce the risk of death, subsequent heart attacks and stroke. Omega-3s also reduce blood triglycerides, help correct abnormal heart rhythms, and can help avoid and treat atherosclerosis by inhibiting the development of plaque and blood clots, which typically clog arteries.
Decreases Inflammation and Pain
Omega-3s have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. Clinical trials show that diets high in omega-3s (and low in the pro-inflammatory omega-6s) may benefit people with inflammatory disorders -- anything ending in -itis!. Omega-3s have also been used to effectively treat back, neck and menstrual pain, enabling study participants to reduce their intake of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication.
Promotes Healthy Joints and Minimizes Arthritis
The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil reduce joint tenderness, pain intensity and morning stiffness caused by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, quite a few test tube studies have found that omega-3s actually inhibit the activity of enzymes that destroy cartilage. At least 13 published clinical trials have shown that omega-3 fatty acids are very effective at treating rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil has helped those suffering from RA to reduce their need for pain medication.
Enhances Mental Acuity & Long-Term Cognitive Function
Did you know that omega-3s, particularly DHA, are incredibly prevalent in our brains? They're important for optimum cognitive (brain memory and performance) and behavioral functioning, as well as normal growth and development. Trials demonstrate that omega-3s might help in achieving proper cognitive functioning and possibly in avoiding or delaying the onset of Alzheimer's disease. We also now know that it's extremely important that pregnant women get adequate DHA, which is crucial to the developing fetus -- in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, the fetus' brain grows at a rate of a quarter million new neurons each minute! Children are also aided by omega-3 intake, as numerous studies show that omega-3s improve learning, focus, vocabulary and reading skills. Many studies have even shown efficacy in treating ADD.
Supports Positive Mood & Emotional Well-being
In countries where fish is a large part of the diet, national rates of depression are lower. So, it shouldn't be surprising that studies have shown that fish oil capsules can temper the symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and psychosis. Numerous studies have found that those that took fish oil in addition to prescribed anti-depressants had a greater improvement in symptoms than those that only took antidepressants, with patients experiencing a stabilization effect and less mood swings. Research has also shown that, when those in prison were given fish oil, there was a drastic drop in violent behavior. Omega-3s also appear to lower the risk of postpartum depression.
Promotes Vision Health
Studies show that people with a higher fish oil intake seem to have a lower risk of Dry-Eye Syndrome and developing macular degeneration. Preliminary studies also show that omega-3 supplementation helps in lessening dry eye symptoms, may help to inhibit macular degeneration for those already experiencing it and improves ocular health in general.
Pregnancy, Infancy Eye & Brain Development & Reduced Incidence of Childhood Disorders
DHA makes up 15-20% of our cerebral cortex and about 30-60% of the retina, so it's absolutely necessary for normal growth and development of the fetus and baby. Prenatal DHA availability also seems to lessen the chances 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 Fat Metabolism and Weight Loss
According to the National Institute of Health, omega-3s transmit "I'm full" messages 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 didn't consume fish oil. Exercise plus fish oil had a positive effect on the body shape and body composition of the participants.
Reduces Chance of Colorectal, Breast & Prostate Cancer
Though more research in this area is urgently needed, we now are aware that the omega 3's found in fish oil assist in the prevention and treatment of breast, prostate and ovarian cancers. Early trials imply that consuming fish oil daily can help retard the progression of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease and may even have the capacity to cause apoptosis (cellular death) of cancer cells.
Much more could be written with regards to 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 headlines 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 realize and maintain optimal health!
Brittany M. Wallace is a health and nutrition expert who has been studying benefits of fish oil for nearly 10 years. You can learn all about the fish oil benefits by visiting her site.
