Most people take a supplement as a way of maintaining their bodies and keeping their immune system strong and healthy. But, are most of them even healthy to be consumed over long periods. Fish oil is, by far, one of the most popular supplements taken. Though one can eat fish (mackerel, salmon, tuna, cod liver, etc.) to get the necessary beneficial oils known as omega-3 fatty acids, people still generally take the pills as these meats are usually not consumed a lot.
Even though it is generally a supplement that most people can take, doctors have used fish oil as a prescription medicine for some patients to reduce their triglycerides levels. In case one cannot take pills because they have pharmacophobia, it is recommended that they consume foods with this fatty acid as the body needs it for efficient functioning.
Are Fish Oil Omega Supplements Safe?
Fish oils are mostly used for heart and blood health because of the elements contained in it – Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), two major types of omega-3 fatty acids. In other patients, doctors have recommended their use to improve kidney health as well as to improve the cognitive behavior of the body. Seeing lots of people who have health conditions linked to nerve and brain function, fish is generally nicknamed “brain food” and as a good reputation among those who consume it. Some medical reports have also link fish oil to helping other conditions such as those leading to blindness.
How Does It Work?
Research has shown that a lot of the benefits of fish oil comes from the omega-3 acids they contain, and seeing the body does not produce its own, they have to be taken manually. Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their benefits in reducing pain and swelling, thus the effective benefits when it comes to dry eyes and psoriasis. Omega-3 is also known for its advantages on the body in reducing the chances of a blood clot as well as improving heart-health.
Are Fish Oils and Omega-3 Fatty Acids the Same?
The answer is no. Fish oil is a source for providing the body with much-needed omega-3 fatty acids as it contains a good proportion of the healthy fat. The fatty acids can also be found in other foods such as dark leafy vegetables, nuts like walnuts and almond, and also flaxseed. Fish oil contains other fats and other fatty acids, but omega-3 is medically-proved to reduce the chances of a heart attack in healthy persons and to lower the risk of a second heart attack for those who already experienced it.
What are the benefits of omega 3 fish oil?
Over the years, research has been continual about the benefits of these omega-3 supplements and the benefits it has for both healthy people and those suffering from heart conditions. When you consume omega-3 fatty acids, you stand the chances of:
- Lowering your blood pressure
- Reducing triglycerides
- Slowing the development of plaque built up in the arteries
- Reducing heart dysfunctions like irregular heart rhythm
- Reducing the risk of heart attack and heart failures. It also reduces the possibility of sudden cardiac death for those suffering from heart conditions.
- Improving your kidney’s health
- Reducing Menstrual Cramp
- Reducing the risk of cancer of the lining of the uterus
Medical professionals do recommend that people who do not take the supplements eat fish high in omega-3 at least twice per week (tuna, sardines, salmon, herring, or mackerel). The best bet to getting the needed omega-3 fatty acids is through foods, but for those who can’t eat fish, doctors recommend taking the supplements. If you have bad heart health, you may need more omega-3 acids than usual. However, with the many benefits of the nutrient, you have to understand there are side effects of it. These include:
- A fishy taste in your mouth
- Nausea
- Loose stools
- Stomach upset
- Bleeding if too many grams (over 3 grams) of fish oil are consumed each day. If you desire to take more supplements than the ordinary, ensure you speak with your doctor before you do.
Does fish oil thin blood?
It is known for its benefit of reducing blood clots because it is a form of the natural anticoagulant. As such, since heart health relies on efficient blood flow, it is evident it may thin the blood but not to the point of hurting. If too much is consumed, however, or they are taken with other anticoagulants, it may cause bleeding.
Does fish oil raise cholesterol?
Fish oil, like every other supplement, has its positives and negatives associated with it. As it relates to fish oil and your cholesterol, fish oil lowers your triglycerides and slightly raises your HDL, which may be a good thing for you. However, it may LDL, which is not so healthy for you as this is the negative side of your cholesterol. It is recommended to consume oils with pure EPA to reduce or eliminate the chances of your LDL going up.
Does fish oil help joints?
Swelling, morning stiffness, tenderness, and discomfort can be reduced after consuming one-to-three grams of fish oil each day. Also, omega-3 helps with blood flow, so it reduces joint pains and cramps.
Do fish oil pills help you lose weight?
Yes, omega-3 fatty acids have elements to aid with weight loss, among its many other benefits. It is also effective with helping to lose inches as well as body fat though it is not the same case with everyone. After all, what works for one may not work with another.
When should fish oil be taken?
Taking fish oil supplements can be at any time of the day, even though it is recommended to take with a meal. Taking fish oil or most other supplements on an empty stomach can result in one feeling nauseous or faint-like.
Does fish oil contain mercury?
Multiple tests and lab reports have shown some fish oil supplements to contain no trace of mercury. However, some may have small levels of PCBs, which are generally found in water, and consuming fish stands at a higher rate than when the supplement is consumed.
What is the best supplement?
There are multiple types of supplements available with added benefits varying by the brand. Based on a recent study, supplements should vary based on who is consuming, as some are noted to raise cholesterol levels while others don’t. When considering which to take, you can consider a few of the following or by asking your health professional, which is best for you based on your health needs:
(These are general fish oil supplements with a wide-base of benefits)
Your health is your responsibility, and how you treat your health determines the results you will receive at the end of the day. However, though fish oil omega-3 is a natural and general supplement, it is recommended you speak with your doctor before taking, especially if you are on other medications.