A plethora of research studies show that, not only are fish oil benefits numerous, some of them are really quite amazing! It seems that new research is being published all the time, as researchers and doctors learn more and more about how and why it is so great for health. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are “good fats” that are necessary for optimal health. They are essential for our health but our bodies can’t make them – you must get them through diet. Here are some proven fish oil health benefits that should convince you to eat more oily, wild fish and begin taking a highly refined fish oil supplement if you aren’t at present!

Promotes Heart Wellness & Prevents Heart Attack and Stroke

Fish oil continues to grow in scientific credibility as a significant component to heart health. According to statements from the American Heart Association, fish oil is effective in lessening the occurrence of heart disease and helps to reduce risk factors like high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Clinical studies of heart attack survivors have discovered that daily consumption of omega-3 supplements dramatically minimize the risk of dying, additional heart attacks and stroke. Omega-3s also lower blood triglycerides, help correct abnormal heartbeats, and can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by inhibiting the formation of plaque and blood clots, which tend to clog arteries.

Decreases Inflammation/Pain

Omega-3s possess a effective anti-inflammation effect. Research trials suggest that diets high in omega-3s (and low in the pro-inflammatory omega-6s) may benefit people with inflammatory conditions — anything that ends with -itis!. Omega-3 also has been utilised to effectively treat back, neck and menstrual pain, allowing study participants to lessen their particular consumption of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication.

Promotes Healthy Joints and Reduces Symptoms of Arthritis

The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil reduce joint tenderness, pain intensity and morning stiffness produced by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, many test tube studies have found that omega-3s actually decrease the action of enzymes that destroy cartilage. At least 13 published research trials have demonstrated that fish oil supplements are highly beneficial at treating rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil has helped people suffering from RA to reduce their dependence on pain medication.

Supports Mental Focus & Long-Term Cognitive Functioning

Are you aware that omega-3s, particularly DHA, are highly prevalent in our brains? They’re important for optimum cognitive (brain memorization and performance) and behavioral function, as well as proper growth and development. Trials demonstrate that omega-3s may aid in maintaining adequate cognitive functioning and possibly in avoiding or holding off the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We additionally have realized that it’s tremendously essential that pregnant women get enough DHA, because it’s essential to the growing fetus — in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, the fetus’ brain grows at a rate of 250,000 new neurons every 60 seconds! Children are also aided by fish oil consumption, as myriad studies show that omega-3s enhance learning, focus, reading and vocabulary skills. Numerous studies have even shown efficacy in treating ADD.

Produces Happy Mood & Emotional Wellness

In countries where fish makes up a significant part of the diet, nationwide rates of depression are lower. So, it’s not surprising that studies have shown that fish oil capsules can alleviate the symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and psychosis. Several studies have shown that people who took fish oil in addition to prescription anti-depressants had a larger improvement in symptoms than those who only took antidepressants, with subjects experiencing a stabilizing effect and less mood swings. Trials have also demonstrated that, when prisoners were given omega three fatty acids, there was a marked drop in aggressive behavior. Omega-3s also appear to reduce the risk of postnatal depression.

Promotes Eye Wellness

Studies show that people with a higher omega-3 consumption appear to have a lower risk of Dry-Eye Syndrome and developing AMD, or age-related macular degeneration. Early studies also show that omega-3 supplementation helps in alleviating dry eye indicators, may help to inhibit macular degeneration for those currently experiencing it and helps eye health generally.

Pregnancy, Infancy Brain/Vision Development & Reduced Incidence of Childhood Conditions

DHA comprises 15-20% of our cerebral cortex and approximately 30-60% of the retina, so it’s definitively essential for natural development of the fetus and baby. Prenatal DHA availability also appears to reduce likelihood of childhood allergies and have an effect on motor skill quality, cognitive development and behavior/hyperactivity later in the child’s life. Omega-3s also aid in reducing the chances of premature birth and low birth weight.

Promotes Optimal Metabolism of Fat and Weight Loss

According to the National Institute of Health, omega-3s transmit “I’m full” signals to the brain and help quash hunger signals. Research has also shown that fish oil improves the effectiveness of exercise in reducing weight. Volunteers who were given fish oil with their diet showed greater decreases in weight as compared to people who did not consume fish oil. Exercise plus fish oil had a positive effect on the body shape and body composition of the participants.

Lowers Risk of Prostate, Breast & Colorectal Cancers

Though additional research in this area is certainly needed, we now are aware that the omega 3’s that appear in fish oil assist in the prevention and treatment of breast, prostate and ovarian cancers. Preliminary trials imply that taking fish oil daily can help retard the progression of colon cancer in those with early stages of the disease and may even have the ability to cause apoptosis (cell death) of cancerous cells.

Much more could be written about the many fish oil benefits. And, as the scientific community and doctors continue to examine omega-3s, you can bet that fish oil will keep producing headlines as the best source of these essential fatty acids that are so vital to our bodies. Even if you’re already in good fitness, a high quality fish oil supplement is the simplest, safest way to achieve and maintain optimal health!

You can read much more about fish oil capsules on the website of Brittany W. Wallace. Brittany is an expert on nutrition who researched fish oil benefits for the past 10 years.