Why fish oil

Fish oil supplements have been promoted as easy way to protect the heart, ease inflammation , improve mental health, and lengthen life.

And food companies are adding it to milk, yogurt, cereal, chocolate, cookies, juice, and hundreds of other foods. But the evidence for improving heart health is mixed.

In November , a study reported in the New England Journal of Medicine found that omega-3 fatty acid supplements did nothing to reduce heart attacks, strokes , or deaths from heart disease in middle-age men and women without any known risk factors for heart disease. Earlier research reported in the same journal in also reported no benefit in people with risk factors for heart disease. Evidence linking fish oil and cancer has been all over the map.

Most research, including the study cited above, has not shown any decreased risk of cancer. However, some earlier research suggested diets high in fatty fish or fish oil supplements might reduce the risk of certain cancers. Nevertheless, some very small studies have shown that fish oil may improve memory in healthy, older adults , Asthma, which can cause swelling in the lungs and shortness of breath, is becoming much more common in infants.

A number of studies show that fish oil may reduce asthma symptoms, especially in early life , , , Furthermore, fish oil supplements in pregnant mothers may reduce the risk of allergies in infants During old age, bones can begin to lose their essential minerals, making them more likely to break.

This can lead to conditions like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Calcium and vitamin D are very important for bone health , but some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids can also be beneficial. People with higher omega-3 intakes and blood levels may have better bone mineral density BMD , , A number of small studies suggest that fish oil supplements reduce markers of bone breakdown, which may prevent bone disease If you do not eat 1—2 portions of oily fish per week, you may want to consider taking a fish oil supplement.

Below is a list of things to consider when taking a fish oil supplement:. WHO recommends a daily intake of 0. However, it may be necessary to increase the dosage if you are pregnant, nursing, or at risk of heart disease Choose a fish oil supplement that provides at least 0. To avoid this, you can choose a supplement that contains an antioxidant, such as vitamin E.

Also, keep your supplements away from light — ideally in the refrigerator. The production of fish oil from anchovies and similar small fish is more sustainable than that from large fish. Other dietary fats help your absorption of omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3s contribute to normal brain and eye development. They fight inflammation and may help prevent heart disease and a decline in brain function. As fish oil contains a lot of omega-3s, those at risk of these disorders can benefit from taking it.

However, eating whole foods is almost always better than taking supplements, and eating two portions of oily fish per week can provide you with enough omega-3s.

Like fish oil, krill oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but they aren't created equal. Here's a look at which is better for your health. A few simple changes to your habits can go a long way in boosting your immune health. Here are 9 tips to boost your body's natural defenses. Omega-3 fatty acids are incredibly important for your body and brain. This article lists 17 science-based health benefits of omega-3s. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Share on Pinterest. What Is Fish Oil?

May Support Heart Health. May Aid Weight Loss. May Support Eye Health. In some cases, eating a healthful diet may be more beneficial than taking supplements, according to some experts. In , for example, scientists who looked at the data of 4, people in Holland found that those who consumed fresh fruits and vegetables and 2 weekly servings of fish were less likely to develop age-related macular degeneration compared with those who did not.

Some people use omega-3 supplements for dry eyes. In , however, a year-long study involving people with moderate-to-severe dry eyes found no evidence to suggest that taking supplements was more helpful than taking a placebo for this purpose.

Epilepsy is a neurological condition. Some studies have suggested that taking omega-3 supplements may help reduce the number of seizures a person experiences. However, a review did not find conclusive evidence to suggest that this can help prevent symptoms. Omega-3 consumption may help boost fetal development, especially of the brain and eyes. This is one that reason experts recommend consuming oily fish during pregnancy.

However, it is important to avoid eating fish with high levels of mercury, such as shark and king mackerel, during this time. In , scientists concluded that consuming omega-3 during pregnancy may improve memory function in school-age children. In most cases, the best way to consume nutrients is through food, unless a doctor recommends taking supplements. Animal-based sources of omega-3 include:. However, omega-3 supplements are unlikely to cause any severe adverse effects, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

That said, people should check with their doctor before using them, as there may be some risks. For example:. It is, therefore, essential to buy them from a reputable source. Learn more about the possible side effects of taking fish oil here. Consuming more fish oil and omega-3 may bring some health benefits, but eating a diet that offers a variety of nutrients is likely to be healthful.

Anyone who is considering taking supplements should first check with a healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe. Shop here for fish oil supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids are present in foods such as fish. Their potential benefits include reducing inflammation and heart disease risk. Adversely, omega-. Fish oil supplements contain healthful omega-3 fatty acids. These dietary fats are available in fresh fish, as well, but too many may lead to unwanted….

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients. Oily fish, seeds, and nuts are among the best sources. In this article, we take a look at 15 omegarich….