Health Benefits of Fish Oil

The reason that fish oil offers so many potential health benefits is attributed to its Omega-3 content. Omega 3 is generally considered to be an essential fatty acid, necessary for the normal functioning of the body. The Omega 3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are precursors to eicosanoids which are believed to reduce inflammation in the body.

Fish are not actually responsible for producing omega-3 fatty acids, but they accumulate them from either eating the microalgae that produce the fatty acids, as is the case with prey fish like herring and sardines, or, as is the case with fatty predatory fish, by eating fish that have built up levels of omega-3 fatty acids from eating the microalgae.

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Such fatty predatory fish like mackerel, albacore tuna and salmon may be high in omega-3 fatty acids, but because of being at the top of the food chain, these fish may build up levels of toxic compounds. It is recommended by world health organisations to limit the consumption of certain fish because of the high levels of toxic components such as mercury, dioxins and , PCBs. Because of this, many people have use fish oil supplements to get adequate omega-3 fatty acids (although the purity of these needs to be checked by consumer to ensure health standards have been applied). Also using excess levels of fish oil supplements may lead to adverse health reactions eg allergies, etc, so please consult your health care practitioner before taking fish oil supplementation.

Health Benefits of Fish Oil
1. Cardiovascular Health.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), research studies have shown that omega 3 may be effective in reducing the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. Fish oil may reduces the risk of heart diseases and heart arrhythmias. Trials have demonstrated that fish oil the levels of LDL cholesterol, and increases the HDL levels, a positive contribution for the bodies cardiovascular health. Fish oil may also prevents build up of triglycerides.

2. Anti-inflammatory.
Omega 3 fatty acids, particularly EPA, have a very positive effect on your inflammatory response. This can be very important for those suffering from conditions such as arthritis, psoriasis and gout. However it should be noted that consumption of fish oil has limited impact for preventing inflammation.

3. Protection from Stroke and Heart Attack.
Other studies have demonstrated that fish oil can be used for preventing atherosclerosis in coronary patients which lowers the risk of thrombosis and heart attack and/or stroke. Research shows omega 3 fatty acids break up bloodl clots before they can result in any damage.

Other health benefits are claimed to be:
Fish Oil reduces impact of exercise induced asthma.
Better brain functioning/intelligence.
Positive impact on depression.
Positive impact on ADD/ADHD

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