The popularity of fish oil consumption is due to its high content of omega 3, a fatty acid that is a protector of cardiovascular health. However, there is a great disparity of opinion about the properties and benefits of fish oil in our health. Also, there are notable discrepancies between theoretical studies and clinical trials. In any case, it should be considered as a dietary supplement and never as a substitute for any food or as a medicine itself. It is a dietary supplement widely consumed throughout the world, just behind vitamins and minerals.
If you want to know what is fish oil, what is it for and its benefits, keep reading this oneHOWTO article and you will get complete information.
What is fish oil for?
The fish oil dietary supplement is extracted from the fat of blue fish such as: tuna, herring, mackerel, sardine, salmon or trout. The consumption of this type of fish is considered essential for our body due to its contribution of omega 3 fatty acids and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which are essential for the cardiovascular health. Omega-3 also has anti-inflammatory properties that benefit those suffering from diseases related to arteriosclerosis and rheumatism. It also provides docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is attributed the ability to reduce the level of triglycerides.
The combination of these acids is supposed to have the ability to strengthen veins and arteries, as well as help keep blood clot-free, which is why they are considered a form of prevention of thrombosis, embolism and strokes, as well as as a treatment to lower blood pressure. However, it has more benefits and is used to improve more aspects of our health, as we will see below.
Fish oil properties
Surprising properties are attributed to fish oil, especially if it is consumed directly, including the consumption of oily fish in our diet at least twice a week. The properties of this food supplement are due to its composition. These are the main components of fish oil:
- High in omega 3 and omega 6.
- Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
- Vitamins A, B, C, E and D.
In addition, in the case of dietary supplements in capsules, the vitamin index is usually increased and, in some cases, some minerals are added, such as zinc, iron and / or magnesium.
Thus, thanks to this nutritional composition, these are the main properties of fish oil:
- Cardioprotective
- Anti-inflammatory
- Hypotensive
- Anticoagulant
- Lipid-lowering
- Skin hydration
- Healing
- Stimulates defenses
Learn more about the Properties of cod oil in this other oneHOWTO article, since this is one of the most common fish from which it is extracted.
Fish oil benefits
The fish oil benefits They are varied, especially thanks to the omega fatty acids, EPA and DHA. Thus, fish oil is attributed, among others, the following benefits:
- Reduces the possibility of heart disease.
- Reduces the risk of coronary artery-related diseases.
- It improves the general health of the heart and prevents disturbances in its rhythm.
- By lowering blood pressure, it helps regulate hypertension.
- Helps prevent thrombosis, embolism and stroke.
- Improves joint stiffness in diseases such as arthritis and rheumatism.
- It has an anti-inflammatory effect, which is why it helps to reduce internal inflammations when taken, but also on the skin or externally when applied to it.
- Helps reduce bad cholesterol levels.
- Helps reduce triglyceride levels.
- It is beneficial in helping to balance blood glucose (diabetes).
- Its high oleic content favors the hydration of the skin and other tissues.
- Its topical application improves skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, and facilitates healing.
- Improves the appearance of skin and hair.
- It helps to improve the immune system, that is, it stimulates the defenses, which is why it is used to prevent conditions, such as colds, and to facilitate the effect of some medical treatments.
How to take fish oil
The most effective way to take fish oil is incorporating the consumption of blue fish to our diet, at least 2 times a week. Another way to consume fish oil is through dietary supplements that can be found at any pharmacy.
- Can be found fish oil capsules with different levels of concentration. There are also formulations made from different types of fish and with other added ingredients, such as vitamin complexes.
- You can buy the canned fish oil or dark or brown glass jar, since when exposed to light for a long time it spoils. In this case, generally, you take one tablespoon daily, up to a maximum of 3, either directly or mixed with other foods.
To learn more about it, you can consult this other oneHOWTO article on How to take cod liver oil. Likewise, we recommend you to know more Foods rich in omega 3 and other Foods rich in omega 6.
Fish oil contraindications
There are few fish oil contraindications. Among those who should not take it, at least without the control of a doctor who prescribes it, we find:
- Those who cannot consume fish due to an intolerance or allergy problem.
- Those taking anticoagulant medications.
- People who take medicine to lower cholesterol.
- Patients taking blood pressure medications.
In any case, it is always advisable to consult a professional before including any supplement to our diet.
This article is merely informative, at oneHOWTO we do not have the power to prescribe any medical treatment or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
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