Fish Oil
The benefits of essential fatty acids
Fish oil supplements have become increasingly popular over the last several years due to increased knowledge regarding the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Before you take any form of supplementation, it's essential to be aware of both the positive and the negative aspects of that supplement, and of course, consult with your doctor first.
Benefits of Fish Oil Supplementation
- Protection of the heart. Omega-3 fatty acids aid in reducing the buildup of plaque in the bloodstream, thus protecting the heart from having to work too hard to force blood past the plaque.
- Reduction of inflammation. Omega 6, which is commonly found in food, increases the risk of inflammation in the body. Omega-3 fatty acids help to combat this by reducing inflammation, thereby reducing the risk of health conditions such as arthritis, heart attacks and strokes.
- Brain health. The brain contains a fat known as DHA which gradually decreases with time. DHA is contained within omega-3 and helps to prevent the loss of memory and concentration. It has also been linked with the prevention of diseases such as Alzheimer's, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Disadvantages of Fish Oil Supplementation
- Risk of pollution. Unfortunately, the oils found in fish can occasionally contain pollutants such as lead, PCBs and mercury.
- Fish-tasting burps. This side effect is not dangerous, but it's certainly unpleasant. This occurs when the fish has been frozen prior to processing, causing it to become rancid.
Fortunately, these disadvantages can be avoided if research is done prior to choosing a supplement. The pollutants can be avoided if a product is chosen which indicates that it has been molecularly distilled before distribution. Molecular distillation is highly effective in the removal of contaminants. In regards to gas which both smells and tastes like rancid fish, this can be avoided by using a supplement which indicates that the fish used were processed the same day as they were caught instead of being frozen.
Although these superior supplements may be slightly more expensive, they are certainly worth the price if the benefits can be reaped without any negative side effects.