Fish Oil

Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are a class of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids that have been found to be vital in certain body functions. Fish oil has been found to prevent heart disease, and has been recommended by the American Heart Association (see article below). It has also been found to be helpful for depression, diabetes, Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and cancer among others.

Research carried out over the past 20 years has clearly shown that omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) are essential elements in human nutrition. The primary source of DHA and EPA is fatty fish and oils from the tissues of such fish. DHA is a vital component of the phospholipids in cell membranes throughout the body, but is particularly abundant in the brain, retina, and sperm. Fish oils either from whole fish or in the form of supplements have been found to aid in preventing or ameliorating coronary heart disease, stroke, lupus, nephropathy (kidney disorders), Crohn's disease, breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, hypertension, and rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oils have been found particularly effective in preventing arrhythmias and sudden death from cardiac arrest. Several studies have shown that people who eat fish once or more each week can reduce their risk of sudden cardiac death by 50-70 per cent. EPA has been found to inhibit blood clotting and EPA and DHA contained in fish oils inhibit the development of atherosclerosis. Fish oil supplementation also significantly lowers overall triglyceride and cholesterol levels without affecting the level of HDL ("good" cholesterol).

Recent research has shown that the consumption of high fat meals can initiate the development of atherosclerotic deposits. This effect can be substantially reduced by taking fish oil prior to eating such meals. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to fetal development and a deficiency of DHA during gestation can lead to visual impairment and perhaps, lower intelligence quotients.

With all this research is it any wonder that more people are taking fish oil supplements? This website is meant to be an informative introduction to fish oil, because we have experienced the benefits of it in our lives and are eager to share this information with others in the hope that it will improve your health and quality of life.