Fish oil is a substance that can be found in fish and supplements. Known for its multitude of health benefits, fish oil is one supplement that no one should be without. The reason fish oil is so beneficial is because of its high omega-3 fatty acid (polyunsaturated fatty acids) content. This substance is needed to sustain and improve a huge variety of metabolic and health functions in the human body. Here is a brief overview on some of the amazing health benefits of fish oil.
1. Promotes Heart Health
Since fish oil is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, it is very effective in reducing one’s risk of stroke, heart disease and high cholesterol levels. It encourages healthy levels of good cholesterol (HDL) while keeping bad cholesterol levels (LDL) down. It also keeps triglycerides from accumulating in the body and helps to prevent plaque from hardening of the arteries leading to the heart.
2. Boosts Immune System Response
The omega-3 fatty acid content of fish oils have been proven to aid in boosting immune system response. People that take fish oil supplements on a regular basis can resist colds, rashes, fatigue and common illnesses more often than people who do not take supplements. Fish oil increases the amount of functionality of cytokines and eicosanoids in the body, both of which encourage the immune system to function properly and prevent it from attacking itself.
3. Facilitates Weight Loss
People that eat foods that are high in fish oils or take supplements have an easier time of managing their weight. Fish oils are high in essential fats which the body needs and is unable to generate on its own. Once ingested, fish oil does not turn into fat. Instead, it turns into the outer lipid layer that coats the cells. The body has a higher affinity for fish oil because it improves the structure of the cell and improves insulin activity. Improved insulin activity means your body will not hold on to unnecessary fat making it easier for you to achieve and sustain your weight loss goals.
4. Fights Inflammation
Inflammation is one of your body’s first line of defenses against infections. It is also one of the first things to occur when your immune system is malfunctioning and attacking itself and when you exercise. The longer your body remains in an inflammatory type state, the more likely you are to develop serious health conditions. By taking fish oils on a regular basis, you can keep inflammation away and keep your immune system working properly.
5. Speeds Up Cellular Detox
The cells in your body are programmed to get rid of toxins, but this function is often hampered by lifestyle, diet, and overall health. When the cells in your body are unable to rid your body of toxins, you’ll experience more illnesses, increased weight and lower energy levels. Fish oil supplements can help prevent toxin buildup by increasing the amount of healthy fatty acids in your body to promote healthy hormone production, a speedy cellular detox process, and improved cellular health.
6. Improves Moods Disorders
People that suffer from certain mood disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and stress can benefit from taking regular fish oil supplements. Research has proven that people that suffer from these conditions have diets that are low in omega-3 fatty acids. Taking fish oil supplements can significantly lower one’s risk of depression, negative thoughts and behavior.
Advisements
Thanks to the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, one can significantly improve their health in many ways. Moreover, when it is used in conjunction with other health supplements, such as calcium, vitamin B-12, and iron, it is possible to manage many health conditions without the use of certain medications.
It is important for one to consider the source of fish oil before ingesting it. Much of today’s fish supply is contaminated with toxins, so it best to double check the quality before you use it. To avoid potential contamination, consider purchasing your fish oil in supplement form, since many fish oil supplements are made from refined or distilled fish oil.
Also, consuming high amounts of fish oil can be dangerous, because it can deplete the availability of other vitamins and nutrients in your body. Check with your doctor or a nutritionist before adding the supplement into your diet so you can learn more about how fish oil can improve your health and for a list of suggested supplements for you to take with it.