Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Articles Alternative Health The Benefits of Fish Oil & Omega 3

The Benefits of Fish Oil & Omega 3

PDF Print E-mail
(3 votes, average 4.33 out of 5)
Written by Alex Trem   

Benefits of Omega 3The Benefits of Fish Oil & Omega 3

The basic health benefits of fish oil have been known since the 1930’s.  Over subsequent decades, new discoveries have revealed an even more dramatic impact it has on how the body functions.  Fish oil contains omega 3 fatty acids; which are polyunsaturated fats. These healthy fats provide dietary energy without raising the level of cholesterol. The adequate amount of omega 3 fatty acid is obtained in the diet.

Where is Omega 3 Found?

Briefly stated, omega 3 fatty acids contain several essential acids such as EPA and DHA. These fats are not naturally made by the body in sufficient amounts. Omega 3 is produced naturally in the tissue of oily fish. Eating these fish which include tuna, mackerel herring, salmon and lake trout has many health benefits. Fish oil is also available by prescription and in over the counter dietary supplements. Corn oil, sunflower and safflower seed oils along with certain nuts also contain beneficial Omega 3 fatty acids.

What are the Benefits of Fish Oil?

Every year there are many new discoveries about the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids. While not all inclusive, a few of the numerous health benefits include:
  • Cardiovascular benefits. Heart healthy fish oil lowers triglycerides (blood fat). It also increases good cholesterol, prevents abnormal heart rhythms and slightly thins the blood.  All of these conditions reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke and coronary heart disease.
  • Fish oil has been a proven fighter with depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
  • Omega 3 fatty acids have been found to be effective in treating diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s diabetes and high blood pressure.
  • Fish oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties. These properties help with arthritis, joint stiffness and vision. They are also beneficial in other conditions associated with the aging process.
  • Pregnant women with sufficient omega 3 fatty acids are less likely to go into premature labor. In addition, the developing unborn child has a healthier brain and nervous system since 70 percent of these are made up of omega 3 fatty acids. Newborns sleep better and have less behavioral issues when mothers receive adequate omega 3 during pregnancy.

Does Omega 3 Have Side Effects?

Knowledge concerning the benefits of fish oil has led to the manufacture of over 100 brands of fish oil supplements. These supplements have come under scrutiny in recent years. In California a lawsuit was filed to mandate manufacturers to disclose potentially harmful compounds in the supplements, including PCB. This chemical was banned more than 30 years ago due to the risk to health. Since it has not been determined what level of PCB is harmful to humans, the lawsuit contended that consumers should be aware of its presence in order to make an informed decision about its consumption.

By all accounts, the fish oil benefits far outweigh potential risks. Doctors recommend eating fish containing omega 3 at least once a week for maximum health benefits. As with any supplement, individuals should get medical advice regarding possible side effects such as stomach upset or if they health conditions that may be affected by taking fish oil supplements.

Alex Trem has a website where he discusses the the fish oil benefits and fish oil side effects in detail amongst many other nutrition topics. You can find his website at http://wisemensvitamins.com/

 

Comments  

 
-1 # Sandra 2011-09-03 17:09
Omega 3 Fish Oil gives many benefits to my body. It helps to protect my heart and make my skin soften and younger. I take this supplement everyday and i equipped it with doing exercise and eating a well balanced diet.I can testify to it cause i have proven and tested it already.
Reply | Reply with quote | Quote
 
 
0 # Xenia24 2011-09-20 06:53
As long as the fish oil supplements have undergone molecular distillation, I think there would be no problem. Molecular distillation frees the fish oil from mercury and other toxins. Before I started taking omega 3 ultimate, I made sure it was safe to consume. There's no point in taking supplements if they'd put you at risk.
Reply | Reply with quote | Quote
 
 
0 # Pen 2012-04-12 01:35
Fish oil has helped my with my arthritis. Almost eliminated it completely. Something about the oil lubricates your joints it guess, either way, i love it!
Reply | Reply with quote | Quote
 

Add comment

Anyone can post comments however comments will be moderated if you are not a registered member.


Security code
Refresh

Login