Fish Oil Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Common Names: Cod Liver Oil

Properties: Anti-inflammatory, Anti-stress, Pain killer, Superfood, Eye support

What is Fish Oil?

Fish oil is a well-known, well studied, and easily absorbable combination of two rich Omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oils are not naturally manufactured by the human body¹, but they are readily available from food sources. It is important to note that the Omega-3 fatty acid counterpart of Fish Oil is remarkably less present than it’s Omega-6 fatty acid counterpart, making Fish Oil supplements a must to maintain a healthy intake balance that in itself encourages several important markers of excellent health. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements are made up of two parts, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These Fish Oil supplements are sourced from and extracted from the adipose (fatty) tissues of select, oily, cold-water fish. These fish include Alaskan Salmon, Black Cod, Herring, Mackerel, and Sardines among others¹. The manufacturing of these fish extracted oils into convenient Fish Oil supplement softgels makes them a highly accessible nutritional home remedy.

Fish Oil Uses And Health Benefits

Fish Oil supplements have a wide range of uses. Studies have found that Fish Oil benefits include the lowering of triglycerides as well as reductions in instances of heart attacks. Fish oils also help to slow the hardening of arteries due to arterial plaque buildup². Multiple medical test results also reveal that Fish Oil benefits include increased brain function, and a corresponding achievement of higher intelligence quotients by those who take the supplement. This benefit not only extends to the person who ingests the Fish Oil, but when taken by a pregnant woman, it also benefits her unborn fetus². Let’s take a look at a few additional Fish Oil benefits.

Dandruff & Dry Skin - Fish Oil greatly assists many dry skin conditions including dermatitis, dandruff, and eczema. For relief from the latter, adults should take approximately 1.8 g daily⁵.
Heart Disease & Arterial Vascular Disease - Double blind studies have shown that long term and consistent use of Fish Oils are effective in protection against hospitalization and death for chronic heart failure. Omega-3 fish oils have also repeatedly been shown to lower dangerous blood pressure and triglyceride levels. Fish Oil supplementation can also reduce the frequency of abnormal heartbeats.
Weight Reduction - Fish Oil weight loss successes have been observed in many studies including one where subjects ingested approximately 2 grams of Fish Oils every day for 72 days. Participants experienced Fish Oil weight loss that resulted in the shedding of two pounds of fat. Not only is Fish Oil weight loss supplementation an effective strategy, but the oils also assist in the building of lean muscle mass⁴.

Fish Oil Side Effects And Precautions

Though fish oil is an amazingly beneficial supplement, care and attention should also be taken in order to avoid any Fish Oil side effects. When taken in standard quantities of less than 2g daily, measurable Fish Oil side effects are extremely rare. When they do occur, they might include loose bowels, rashes, nausea, or instances of heartburn. Individuals who take blood thinners should be aware that Fish Oil can possibly cause bleeding problems. Those who have sensitivities or allergies to fish, fish byproducts, or shellfish should avoid consuming Fish Oil suppliments³.

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