Posted on August 12, 2008 in Latest News
Fish oils rich in Omega-3 fatty acids plays an important role in the proper functioning of our body and mind. They not only help in reducing inflammation but can also help in reducing the risks associated with chronic ailments such as cancer, heart disease, arthritis, etc. Fishes such as mackerel, salmon, lake trout, sardines, herrings, albacore tuna, etc contain fish oil that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
Benefits of Fish Oil:
Deficiency of Omega-3 fatty acids in the womb can cause neve and vision problems in infants. It’s deficiency can give rise to many harmful symptoms such as poor memory, extreme tiredness, depression and mood swings, etc.
Listed below are some of the benefits of consuming fish oil:
- Reduces Pain and Inflammation: Fish oils reduce the production and effectiveness of various prostaglandins thereby reducing inflammation. Prostaglandins are hormone-like chemical messengers that activate inflammatory response by damaging tissues and blood vessels. In case of ulcerative colitis, fish oil can prevent the deposition of leukotriene in the colon. Leukotriene can be responsible for the effects of inflammatory response.
- Improved Cardiovascular Health: Omega-3 fatty acids can help in reducing cholesterol, bad LDLs, triglycerides, blood pressure, etc. and in improving HDL (high density lipoprotein – good) cholesterol thus improving the overall health of the heart and increasing life expectancy. Studies have shown that regular eating of fish oils like salmon, etc. can decrease the risk associated with angina, heart attack, irregular heart rhythm, etc.
- Treats Alzheimer’s Disease: Essential fatty acids have been found effective in treating Alzheimer’s disease based on a study conducted at Louisiana State University. The essential fatty acid such as DHA found in cold water fish fish can play a vital role in preventing the development of Alzheimer’s disease by cutting the brain plaques.
- Good Eye Sight: Regular eating of fish oil containing important source of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) has been found effective in treating 2 serious eye ailments. These are age-related blindness known as macular degeneration and dry eye syndrome. “The risk for [age-related macular degeneration] was significantly decreased for the highest versus the lowest quintiles of total [omega-3 fatty acids] intake,” says researcher John Paul SanGiovanni, one who has contributed to the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO).
- Reduces Mood Swings: In bipolar disorder, people suffer from periods of severe mood swings. Cell membranes in the brain are partly made of Omega-3 fatty acids. Experts suggest that increasing the intake of Omega-3 through diet can make it easier for the serotonin to transfer messages in the brain. This helps in enhancing mood and curing depression.
While taking fish oil, one should be cautious of the purity of fish oil. In addition, excess dose of fish oil can lead to allergies and other side effects. Consultation with a doctor is always advisable before taking fish oil.
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