6 health benefits of fish oil supplements
Fish oil comes from a variety of fish like salmon, tuna, herring, and mackerel. While these fishes are healthy in themselves, the oil extracted from these is also known to have a lot of omega-3 fatty acids. Since the human body doesn’t produce omega-3 fatty acids, it helps to add these extra nutrients to one’s routine through fish oil supplements. Some of the well-known health benefits of fish oil supplements include the following:
Improve heart health
It has been observed that people who include a lot of fish in their meals usually are at lower risk of heart disease. This may happen because fish has nutritional benefits that help lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and triglycerides and prevent plaque from forming in the arteries. Consequently, heart health improves, preventing cardiovascular problems. These same benefits can be obtained by having fish oil supplements, especially for those who don’t prefer to eat fish.
Boost brain health
The brain is known to have at least 20% polyunsaturated fatty acids, of which a huge part is omega-3 fatty acids. This means omega-3 fatty acids are essential for the brain to function well. Subsequently, when a person’s meals do not provide this nutrient, having fish oil supplements can be helpful. Besides, these supplements can help to improve memory and maintain stable moods. This can prevent the onset of some of the brain-related health problems.
Help with eye health
When the level of omega-3 fatty acids in the body reduces, it can increase the risk of eye problems. Thus, a person’s eyesight may become weak at a faster rate. To prevent this, it is essential to include foods that are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These include fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines. Apart from these, nuts and seeds like chia seeds, walnuts, and flax seeds are also helpful in improving eye health. But when these foods are not easily available, fish oil supplements can be useful to improve eye health.
Lower inflammation
Usually, inflammation is a reaction of the immune system to fight off infections, intruders, and other problems in the body. But when inflammation occurs repeatedly, it becomes chronic. As a result, a person may experience acne, rashes, acid reflux, inflammatory bowel disease, joint pain, stiffness, etc. During such times, fish oil supplements can help lower inflammation. However, it is important that one consults a doctor to understand the effects and results of the supplement before having them in such situations.
Improve skin health
Since fish oil supplements lower inflammation, it can greatly improve the health of the skin as well. Omega-3 fatty acids in the supplement can regulate the skin’s natural oil production and balance the hydration. Apart from this, it can control breakouts and soothe the skin. As a result, skin problems such as acne, redness, dryness, and so on can be easily managed.
Support bone health
Usually, nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D are essential to make the bones healthy. Moreover, the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil can also help strengthen the bones. The supplements elevate bone mineral density or BMD, thus lowering the risk of bone breakage and fractures.