Fish oil and Omega 3

Fish oil has always believed to have been the secret to healthy eating, but within the last ten years the theories were proven. Countless research studies are concluding that the Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils has many health benefits. At fish-oil.biz our goal is to educate visitors on the benefits and sources of fish oil. We are not doctors and the information on this site is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with a physician before taking supplements.

So what about fish oil is so great? Fish oil is a good source of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Fatty acids are components used in many physical processes in the body. Fatty acids are used in the manufacturing of hormones in the body, found in the membranes of cells and organelle structures, and fatty acids are a  component needed in the aerobic production of energy- more specifically the Krebs’s cycle. Unsaturated fats are not easily stored by the body therefore do not increase the blood’s triglyceride levels.

The two most prominent Omega-3 fatty acids are DHA and EPA. Both have important roles in the body. DHA is a critical part of brain development and function. Taking fish oil supplements or eating plenty of fish lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol. The fatty acids also help prevent heart disease and ward off atherosclerosis because of its role in anti-clotting. It has been shown to help correct heart arrhythmia and improves Lupus symptoms.

Fish oils have an anti-inflammatory property. This aids in the treatment of Irritable Bowel Disease and Rheumatoid arthritis. Blood pressure is also reduced with the use of the oil. The heart reaps nothing but positive benefits from fish oil.

As stated above Omega-3 fatty acids are also vital to brain development and function.  Taking supplements can help treat ADD and depression. Alzheimer’s disease may be treated and even prevented with fish oil. Because lack of DHA in developing fetuses can cause impaired eyesight and poor mental development, it is recommended that pregnant women take a DHA supplement, if not through the whole pregnancy then at least during the third trimester and while breast feeding.

So what are good sources of Omega-3 fatty acids? The fish with the most Omega-3’s are darker, fattier fish, found in cold water like mackerel, sardines, and salmon. Wild fish from northern waters feed on algae and become rich in the fatty acids. Avoid farm raised fish as there are fed cornmeal and have much lower levels of Omega-3’s.

Avoiding mercury is a concern for most, and especially for pregnant women and children.  Because of this smaller fish are better than larger fish. Large fish like king mackerel, swordfish, shark, and tilefish should be avoided. It is recommended that pregnant women and children are better getting the oil in supplement form to avoid mercury exposure all together.

Also, those who don’t like fish can take the supplements as well. While occasionally these supplements can have a fishy odor and cause unpleasant burping, these side effects are usually mild. The queasy pregnant woman can take a straight DHA supplement synthetically developed and avoid the fish oil altogether.

Some other good sources of Omega-3 acids can come from flaxseed oil, canola oil, dark leafy vegetables, and pumpkin seeds. By far one of the best ways to get plenty though is to take a supplement.

Feel free to continue browse the website for more information and articles relating to the benefits of fish oil. We continually update this site so check back often. 

 

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