A great deal of research indicates that, not only are fish oil benefits numerous, some of them are actually very amazing! It seems sometimes like new studies are being published everyday, as researchers and doctors learn so much more about how and why it is really beneficial. The omega-3 fatty acids that appear in fish oil are “good fats” that are vital to optimal health. They are necessary for human health but the body can’t make them – you have to get them through diet. Here are some proven fish oil benefits that should convince you to eat more oily, wild fish and/or start taking a highly refined fish oil supplement in the event that you’re not at present!
Promotes Heart Wellness & Protects Against Heart Attack and Stroke
Fish oil continues to increase in research reputation as an important component to heart health. According to statements from the American Heart Association, fish oil is effective in reducing the occurrence of heart disease and aids in reducing risk factors like high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Clinical trials of heart attack survivors have found that daily omega-3 supplements dramatically minimize the risk of dying, subsequent heart attacks and stroke. Omega-3s also reduce blood triglycerides, help correct irregular heartbeats, and can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by preventing the development of plaque and blood clots, which typically clog arteries.
Lessens Pain & Inflammation
Omega-3s have a great anti-inflammatory effect. Clinical studies suggest that diets high in omega-3s (and low in the pro-inflammatory omega-6s) may help people with inflammation-based disorders — anything that ends in -itis!. Omega-3 additionally has been applied to effectively treat back, neck and menstrual pain, allowing study participants to greatly reduce their own consumption of NSAID drugs.
Promotes Healthy Joints and Minimizes Symptoms of Arthritis
The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil reduce tenderness in joints, pain intensity and morning stiffness caused by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, many lab studies have shown that omega-3s actually inhibit the action of enzymes that break down cartilage. At least 13 published scientific trials have shown that omega-3 fatty acids are highly effective at treating rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil has helped those with RA to reduce their need for pain medication.
Supports Mental Focus & Long-Term Cognitive Function
Are you aware that omega-3s, especially DHA, are incredibly prevalent in our brains? They’re important for optimum cognitive (brain memorization and performance) and behavioral functioning, as well as proper growth and development. Trials show that omega-3s may aid in maintaining proper cognitive functioning and possibly in avoiding or staving off the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We also have learned it’s highly important that pregnant women get adequate DHA, because it’s essential to the growing fetus — in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, the fetus’ brain grows at a rate of a quarter million new neurons every 60 seconds! Children are also aided by omega-3 consumption, as myriad studies have shown that omega-3s enhance learning, concentration, vocabulary and reading abilities. Countless studies have also shown efficacy in treating ADD.
Contributes to Positive Mood & Psychological Wellness
In countries where fish makes up 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 alleviate the symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and psychosis. Numerous studies have shown that participants that took omega-3s with their prescription anti-depressants had a greater improvement in symptoms than those who only took antidepressants, with affected individuals enjoying a stabilizing effect and less mood swings. Studies have also shown that, when prisoners were given omega three fatty acids, there was a huge reduction in hostile behavior. Omega-3s also appear to lower the risk of postnatal depression.
Promotes Vision Wellness
Evidence shows that individuals with a higher fish oil intake appear to have a lower risk of Dry-Eye Syndrome and developing age-related macular degeneration. Early studies also show that fish oil supplements help in reducing dry eye indicators, can help to slow macular degeneration for people currently experiencing it and betters eye health generally.
Pregnancy, Infancy Brain/Eye Development & Less Occurrence of Childhood Conditions
DHA comprises 15-20% of our cerebral cortex and 30-60% of the retina, so it’s definitively required for natural development of the fetus and baby. Prenatal DHA availability also seems to lessen likelihood 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 premature birth and low birth weight.
Promotes Increased Fat Metabolism and Weight Loss
According to the National Institute of Health, omega-3s transmit “I’m full” signals to the brain and aid in inhibiting hunger signals. Research has also shown that fish oil improves the effectiveness of exercise in reducing weight. Volunteers who were given fish oil as part of their diet showed greater decreases in weight as contrasted with those who didn’t consume fish oil. Exercise combined with fish oil had a positive effect on the body shape and body composition of the volunteers.
Decreases Chance of Breast, Prostate & Colorectal Cancer
Though additional research in this area is certainly needed, we now are aware that the omega 3′s that appear in fish oil aid in the prevention and treatment of testicular, prostate, breast and ovarian cancers. Early trials imply that consuming fish oil everyday 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) of cancerous cells.
More could be said about the many fish oil benefits. And, as the scientific community and doctors continue to research omega-3s, you can be certain 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 great fitness, a quality fish oil supplement is the simplest, safest way to realize and maintain optimal health!”
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