A plethora of research show that, not only are fish oil benefits numerous, many of them are really very extraordinary! It seems sometimes like new research is being written about everyday, as scientists and physicians learn so much more about how and why it is so effective. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are “good fats” that are necessary for optimal wellness. They are necessary for human health but our bodies can’t produce them — you must get them through diet. Here are some proven fish oil benefits that should persuade you to consume more oil rich,
wild fish and/or start taking a quality fish oil supplement if you aren’t already!

Promotes Cardiovascular Wellness & Protects Against Heart Attack and Strokes

Fish oil continues to increase in scientific credibility as a significant promoter of heart health. According to the American Heart Association, fish oil is effective in reducing the occurrence of heart disease and helps to reduce risk factors such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Clinical trials of heart attack survivors have found that daily consumption of fish oil supplements drastically reduce the risk of death, subsequent heart attacks and stroke. Omega-3s also lower blood triglycerides, help correct irregular heartbeats, and can help avoid and treat atherosclerosis by inhibiting the development of plaque and blood clots, which typically clog arteries.

Decreases Inflammation/Pain

Omega-3s have a powerful anti-inflammation effect.
Clinical studies suggest that diets rich in omega-3s (and low in the pro-inflammatory omega-6s) may help people with inflammation-based disorders — anything that ends with –itis!. Fish oil has have also been used to successfully treat back, neck and menstrual pain, enabling study participants to reduce their intake of NSAID medication.

Promotes Healthy Joints and Reduces Arthritis Symptoms

The omega-3s in fish oil reduce joint tenderness, pain intensity and morning stiffness caused by rheumatoid arthritis.  In fact, quite a few test tube studies have shown that omega-3s actually decrease the action of enzymes that destroy cartilage. At least 13 published clinical trials have demonstrated that fish oils are highly beneficial at treating rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil has helped people suffering from RA to reduce their need for pain killers.

Supports Mental Acuity & Long-Term Cognitive Function

Are you aware that omega-3s, particularly DHA, are incredibly prevalent in the brain? They’re essential for optimal cognitive (brain memorization and performance) and behavioral functioning, as well as normal growth and development. Studies show that omega-3s may help in maintaining proper cognitive functioning and possibly in preventing or delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We also now know that it’s extremely important that pregnant women get adequate DHA, because it’s essential to the growing fetus — during the third trimester of pregnancy, the fetus’ brain grows at a rate of a quarter million new neurons every 60 seconds!  Children are also aided by omega-3 consumption, as numerous studies have shown that omega-3s improve learning, concentration, vocabulary and reading skills. Many studies have even shown benefits in treating ADD.

Contributes to Happy Mood & Emotional Well-being

In countries where fish makes up a large part of the diet, nationwide rates of depression are lower. So, it’s not surprising that studies have discovered that fish oil  supplements can alleviate the symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and psychosis. Many clinical trials have shown that those that took omega-3s in addition to prescription anti-depressants had a larger improvement in symptoms than those that only took antidepressants, with patients experiencing a stabilization effect and less mood swings. Trials have also demonstrated that, when those in prison were administered omega-3s, there was a significant drop in hostile behavior. Omega-3s also seem to lower the risk of postpartum depression.

Promotes Eye Health

Evidence shows that people with a higher omega-3 consumption appear to have a decreased risk of Dry-Eye Syndrome and developing AMD, or age-related macular degeneration. Early research also shows that fish oil supplementation aids in
reducing dry eye symptoms, may help to slow macular degeneration for those already developing it and improves eye health in general.

Pregnancy, Infant Brain/Vision Development & Reduced Occurrence of Childhood Conditions

DHA makes up 15-20% of our cerebral cortex and 30-60% of the retina, so it is absolutely necessary for normal development of the fetus and baby. Prenatal DHA availability also appears to reduce the chances
of childhood allergies and have an effect on motor skill quality, cognitive development and behavior/hyperactivity later in the life of
the child. Omega-3s also aid in lowering the risk of premature birth and low birth weight.

Promotes Increased Metabolism of Fat and Weight Loss

According to the National Institute of Health, omega-3s transmit “I’m full” messages to the brain and help quash hunger signals. Research has also shown that fish oil improves the efficacy of exercise in reducing body fat. Study participants who were given fish oil as part of their diet showed greater decreases in weight as compared to people who did not consume fish oil. Exercise along with fish oil had a positive effect on the body shape and body composition of the patients.

Reduces Chance of Colorectal, Breast & Prostate Cancer

Though more research in this area is certainly needed, we now are aware that the omega 3’s found in fish oil aid in the prevention and treatment of testicular, prostate, breast and ovarian cancers. Preliminary trials imply that consuming fish oil daily can help inhibit the progression of colon cancer in those with early stages of the disease and may possibly have the ability to induce apoptosis (cell death) in cancerous cells.

Much more could be said with regards to the many fish oil benefits. And, as the scientific community and health professionals continue to study omega-3s, you can bet that fish oil will keep producing headlines as the ideal source of these essential fatty acids that are so vital to our bodies.
Even if you’re already in great physical condition, a quality fish oil supplement is the simplest, safest way to realize and maintain optimal health!

Brittany M. Wallace is a health and nutrition expert, with particular expertise with Omega-3 Fish Oil.