Over 70 percent of Americans regularly take dietary supplements, which is record-high, as reported by the CRN or Councils for Responsible Nutrition. A survey involving nearly ten thousand people found fish oil to be a commonly consumed supplement. It comes second only to magnesium and vitamin D. These types of nutrients boast a broad range of health benefits because of their high content of omega-3 fats or fatty acids.
As its name implies, fish oil comes from the tissue of fish, typically oily types of fish like mackerel, tuna, herring, and anchovies. However, it can also be produced in the liver of specific fishes, such as cod. The WHO recommends consuming at least one to two portions of these aquatic animals every week due to their many advantages to health and wellbeing, including protection against different diseases. However, those unable to eat enough fish can also turn to supplements to get sufficient omega-3.
Omega-3 makes up approximately 30 percent of extracted fish oil, while the rest comprise various fats. Moreover, it also comes with some vitamins D and A. It’s worth noting that specific omega-3 types found within fish oil are generally more beneficial than those in plant sources.
Benefits Heart Health
One of the leading causes of death globally is heart disease. But research shows that those who consume fish more are at less risk of developing cardiovascular conditions and complications. Many risk factors associated with the organ seem to be driven down by fish oil intake. For starters, it lowers triglycerides, fats typically found in the blood and stored as the body’s fat.
Triglycerides in high levels have been found to cause or exacerbate the build-up of fat in artery walls, which can lead to a stroke or heart attack. By lowering triglycerides, fish oil effectively minimizes these risks immensely. In addition, studies have also shown its ability to reduce the chances of developing arrhythmia, which are abnormal heartbeats that may also cause potentially severe heart-related conditions.
Fish oil may also help slow the progression of the accumulation of plaque. These substances, typically made up of calcium, cholesterol, and fat, can build up in the arteries and limit oxygen-rich blood flow throughout the body. Furthermore, omega-3 has high antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties to improve endothelial cells’ functioning. On top of that, omega-3 can lower blood pressure and keep it at an optimal range.
