“A huge amount of research indicates that, not only are the benefits of fish oil numerous, many of them are really very amazing! It seems sometimes like new research is being published all the time, as scientists and doctors learn more and more about how and why it is so great for health. The omega-3 fatty acids that appear in fish oil are “good fats” that are vital to well-being. They are essential for our health but our bodies can’t make them – you have to obtain them from your diet.
Here are some proven fish oil benefits that should persuade you to consume more oily, wild-caught fish and/or start taking a high quality fish oil supplement in the event you’re not already!
Minimizes Inflammation/Pain
Omega-3s have a potent anti-inflammatory impact. Clinical studies show that diets high in omega-3s (and low in the pro-inflammatory omega-6s) may benefit people with inflammatory disorders — anything ending with -itis!. Fish oil has also been utilized to successfully treat back, neck and menstrual pain, helping study patients to reduce his or her intake of NSAID drugs.
Promotes Heart Health & Prevents Heart Attack and Stroke
Fish oil continues to grow in scientific reputation as a significant component to heart health. According to the American Heart Association, fish oil is effective in minimizing the occurrence of heart disease and helps to reduce risk factors such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Clinical studies of heart attack survivors have found that daily fish oil capsules dramatically minimize the risk of death, subsequent heart attacks and stroke. Omega-3s also decrease blood triglycerides, help correct irregular heartbeats, and can help avoid and treat atherosclerosis by inhibiting the development of plaque and blood clots, which tend to clog arteries.
Promotes Healthy Joints and Lessens Symptoms of Arthritis
The omega-3s in fish oil reduce tenderness in joints, pain intensity and morning stiffness produced by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, several test tube studies have shown that omega-3s actually decrease the activity of enzymes that destroy cartilage. At least 13 published research studies have shown that fish oil supplements are extremely beneficial at treating rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil has helped people with RA to reduce their need for pain killers.
Contributes to Positive Mood & Emotional Wellness
In countries where fish makes up a significant 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. Many studies have shown that participants that took fish oil with their prescription anti-depressants had a greater improvement in symptoms than those that only took antidepressants, with subjects getting a stabilization effect and fewer mood swings. Trials have also shown that, when prisoners were given omega three fatty acids, there was a huge drop in aggressive behavior. Omega-3s also seem to lower the risk ofpostnatal depression.
Increases Mental Focus & Long-Term Cognitive Functioning
Are you aware that omega-3s, especially DHA, are highly concentrated in the brain? They’re important for optimum cognitive (mental memory and performance) and behavioral function, as well as normal growth and development. Trials demonstrate that omega-3s might aid in achieving adequate cognitive functioning and possibly in preventing or delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We additionally now understand that it’s considerably important that pregnant women get adequate DHA, which is required by the developing fetus — during the 3rd trimester of being pregnant, the brain of the fetus grows at a rate of 250,000 new neurons every 60 seconds! Kids are also helped by omega-3 intake, as myriad studies have shown that omega-3s increase learning, focus, vocabulary and reading abilities. Countless studies have also shown efficacy in treating ADD.
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 research also shows that fish oil supplements aid in alleviating dry eye symptoms, may help to inhibit macular degeneration for those already experiencing it and improves eye health in general.
Pregnancy, Infancy Vision & Brain Development & Reduced Occurrence of Childhood Disorders
DHA makes up 15-20% of the cerebral cortex and about 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 reduce the chances of childhood allergies and have an effect on motor skill quality, cognitive development and hyperactivity/behavior later in the child’s life. Omega-3s also assist in lowering the risk of premature birth and low birth weight.
Enhances Fat Metabolism and Weight Loss
According to the National Institute of Health, omega-3s trigger “I’m full” messages to the brain and help quash hunger signals. Research has also shown that omega-3 fish oil improves the efficacy of exercise in reducing weight. 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 plus fish oil had a positive effect on the body shape and body composition of the patients. Lowers Risk of Prostate, Breast & Colorectal Cancer Though additional research in this area is certainly needed, we now are aware that the omega 3’s found in fish oil aid in the prevention and treatment of breast, prostate and ovarian cancers. Early trials imply that consuming fish oil daily can help inhibit the progression of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease and may possibly have the capacity to cause apoptosis (cellular death) of cancer cells.
More can be said with regards to the many fish oil benefits. And, as the science community and health professionals continue to research omega-3s, you can be certain that fish oil will keep producing headlines as the best source of these essential fatty acids that are so vital to our bodies. Even if you’re currently in great physical condition, a high quality fish oil supplement is the simplest, safest way to realize and maintain optimal health!”
