The Benefits of Taking Omega-3 Fish Oil

Omega-3 fish oil is available in capsule and liquid forms in most pharmacies and supermarkets. It is a prominent source of essential fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Different varieties of fish are commonly used in the manufacture of fish oil, which offers multiple health benefits.

Prevents and Controls Heart Disease

• Fish oil supplements can lower risk factors such as cholesterol and high blood pressure that increase the chances of heart disease. Omega-3 fish oil may also be beneficial in the prevention of arterial plaque and blocks. In addition to lowering the chances of heart disease, it can also lower the risk of stroke, cardiac arrhythmia or abnormal heart beats and heart attacks. (See References 2) Omega-3 fish oil is also beneficial in lowering the risk of fatalities among people with a history of heart disease. (See References 1)

Helps in Maintaining Blood Pressure Levels

• Omega-3 fish oil is beneficial in lowering blood pressure levels among people with hypertension. However, because a high dosage of fish oil can increase the risk of bleeding, patients must consult their physicians before consuming fish oil supplements. (See References 1)

Aids Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Regular consumption of omega-3 fish oil can reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness and difficulty of motion. Fish oil reduces inflammation of the joints and improves mobility. However, it has not been beneficial in reducing the wear and tear of joints due to arthritis. (See References 2)

Helps Improve Cholesterol Levels

• Omega-3 fish oil improves the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in the blood. HDL cholesterol is good for the body and lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke. EPA and DHA found in fish oil supplements can also reduce the levels of harmful triglycerides in the blood. However, fish oil supplements can also increase the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is harmful to the body. (See References 1)

Prevents Macular Degeneration

• EPA and DHA are beneficial in lowering the risk of developing macular degeneration, which is a chronic eye disease that can lead to loss of vision. Macular degeneration affects the macula, which is a part of retinal tissue in the eye. (See References 3)

Lowers Risk of Cancer

• Omega-3 fish oil can reduce the chances of cancer and control the growth of cancer cells in patients. It can lower the risk of breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer. Patients with colon cancer can also benefit from omega-3 fish oil, which have been shown to control the spread of cancer cells. (See References 2)