11 advantages of fish oil supplements
Fish oil is a rich source of two essential omega-3 fatty acids, namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) . Omega-3s are responsible for helping create new cells and tissues in the body, providing energy, and supporting overall health. They are naturally found in a variety of fish, such as mackerel, herring, tuna, trout, sardines, and salmon. To ensure daily intake of omega-3s, many people also opt for fish oil supplements, which may offer benefits like:
Supporting heart health
According to several studies, people who consume fish regularly have lower rates of heart disease. This is because fish or fish oil helps to:
- Lower triglyceride levels
Triglycerides are a type of fat in the body. Their presence in high levels can lead to fatty build-up in the artery walls, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Omega-3s can help lower the levels of triglyceride. - Reduce the risk of arrhythmia
The term arrhythmia refers to an abnormal heartbeat. Some varieties, such as Atrial fibrillation (AFib) can pose serious health issues. Although fish oil supplements are not an effective treatment strategy, their omega-3 content may help reduce the risk of arrhythmia. - Slower the rate of plaque build-up
Plaque is a unique mix of fat, cholesterol, and calcium. When this collects in the arteries, it can reduce blood flow, increasing the pressure on the heart. However, regular intake of omega-3 can have anti-inflammatory effects and improve the function of endothelial cells that line the blood vessels. This may slow down the rate of plaque build-up in the body. Please note that research in this field is still ongoing. - Lower blood pressure
High intake of omega-3s has also been reduced to a slight reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This improves overall heart health and can reduce the severity of or mortality from heart diseases.