Top 9 Omega-3 Fish Oil Benefits Proven By Clinical Science
A huge amount of research indicates that, not only are fish oil benefits numerous, many of them are really quite extraordinary! It seems like new studies are being produced everyday, as researchers and physicians learn so much more about how and why it is so effective. The omega-3 fatty acids that are found in fish oil are “good fats” that are necessary for optimal health. They are crucial for our health but the body can’t produce them – you must get them through diet. Here are some proven fish oil benefits that should persuade you to eat more oily, wild fish and/or begin taking a high quality fish oil supplement if you aren’t already!
Promotes Cardiovascular Wellness & Protects Against Heart Attack and Strokes
Fish oil continues to grow in scientific credibility as a key promoter of 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 such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Research trials of heart attack survivors have discovered that daily omega-3 capsules drastically reduce the risk of dying, subsequent heart attacks and stroke. Omega-3s also reduce blood triglycerides, help correct abnormal heart rhythms, and can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by preventing the formation of plaque and blood clots, which tend to clog arteries.
Minimizes Inflammation/Pain
Omega-3s have a powerful anti-inflammation effect. Lab trials show that diets high in omega-3s (and low in the inflammatory omega-6s) may benefit people with inflammation-based conditions — anything that ends in -itis!. Omega-3s have also been used to successfully treat neck, back and menstrual pain, enabling study participants to reduce their consumption of NSAID drugs.
Ensures Healthy Joints and Lessens 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, quite a few test tube studies have shown that omega-3s actually decrease the activity of enzymes that destroy cartilage. At least 13 published clinical studies have demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acids are very effective at treating rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil has helped people with RA to reduce their need for pain killers.
Increases Mental Focus & Long-Term Cognitive Function
Are you aware that omega-3s, especially DHA, are incredibly concentrated in the brain? They’re important for optimal cognitive (brain memorization and performance) and behavioral functioning, as well as normal growth and development. Trials demonstrate that omega-3s might help in achieving adequate cognitive functioning and possibly in preventing or staving off the onset of dementia. We also now know that it’s very important that pregnant women get adequate DHA, because it’s essential to the growing fetus — in the third trimester of pregnancy, the fetus’ brain grows at a rate of 250,000 new neurons every 60 seconds! Kids are also helped by omega-3 intake, as many studies show that omega-3s enhance learning, focus, reading and vocabulary skills. Numerous studies have even shown efficacy in treating ADD.
Supports Happy Mood & Emotional Wellness
In nations where fish is a significant part of the diet, nationwide rates of depression are lower. So, it shouldn’t be surprising that studies have discovered that fish oil capsules can alleviate the symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and psychosis. Numerous studies have found that people that took fish oil with their prescription anti-depressants had a larger improvement in symptoms than those who took anti-depressants alone, with patients experiencing a stabilization effect and less mood swings. Research has also shown that, when those in prison were given fish oil, there was a drastic drop in violent behavior. Omega-3s also seem to reduce the risk of postpartum depression.
Promotes Vision Health
Evidence shows that people with a higher fish oil consumption appear to have a decreased risk of Dry-Eye Syndrome and developing AMD, or age-related macular degeneration. Preliminary research also shows that fish oil supplementation aids in lessening dry eye symptoms, may help to slow macular degeneration for people already developing it and improves eye health in general.
Pregnancy, Infant Brain/Vision Development & Reduced Incidence of Childhood Conditions
DHA makes up 15-20% of our cerebral cortex and about 30-60% of the retina, so it is absolutely essential for normal 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 hyperactivity/behavior later in the child’s life. Omega-3s also help to lower the risk of low birth weight and premature birth.
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 demonstrated that fish oil improves the effectiveness of exercise in reducing body fat. Volunteers who were alloted fish oil with their diet showed greater decreases in weight as contrasted with people 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.
Reduces Chance of Colorectal, Breast & Prostate Cancers
Though additional research in this area is certainly needed, we now know that the omega 3′s found in fish oil aid in the prevention and treatment of testicular, prostate, breast and ovarian cancers. Preliminary studies imply that taking fish oil daily can help retard the progression of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease and may even have the capacity to induce apoptosis (cellular death) of cancerous cells.
A great deal more could be written with regards to the many fish oil benefits. And, as the science community and health professionals continue to examine omega-3s, you can bet that fish oil will keep producing news as the best source of these essential fatty acids that are so vital to our bodies. Even if you’re currently in good physical condition, a quality fish oil supplement is the fastest, safest way to realize and maintain optimal health!
Brittany M. Wallace is a health and nutrition expert who has been studying the benefits of fish oil for nearly 10 years. You can learn all about the benefits of omega 3 fish oil by visiting her site.
categories: fish oil,omega-3,fish oil benefits,benefits of fish oil,cancer,children,ADHD,heart disease,depression,weight loss,pregnancy,health,nutrition
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Hey, just curious if you’ve gotten any further information so I can find a bit more about it?