The Main Benefits of Fish Oil Supplements

For over a decade, the benefits of fish oil supplements have been becoming increasingly clear as a growing number of people have used them on a regular basis and as research continues.

The focus has been particularly aimed toward heart health and heart disease prevention, but the benefits of fish oil don’t stop there. The key to the potential in taking these supplements is in the omega-3 fatty acids they contain. These are essential nutrients and are used by the body for cardiovascular wellness as well as in other areas such as the skin and hair.

Findings in some research indicate that omega-3 fatty acid can help to: reduce triglycerides, lower blood pressure levels, decrease the chance of abnormal heart rhythm, inhibit artery plaque formation, reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, and lower the chance of sudden cardiac death among people who already have heart disease. Clearly, these potential benefits of fish oil are important.

In fact, they’re important enough that the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that adults eat fish at least twice per week. The preference is for fatty, coldwater fish, as it contains the most omega-3 fatty acids. Among the best sources include salmon, sardines, lake trout, mackerel, herring and tuna. That said, when you can’t eat enough fish, or if you want to top things up on a daily basis, fish oil supplements are a helpful alternative.

At the moment, it remains unclear specifically what dose of fish oils are required in order to bring about the benefits linked with the consumption with actual fish. Moreover, it’s believed that if you already have high triglyceride levels or heart disease, you may need a higher dose of fish oil supplements than a healthy individual. It’s a good idea to consult with your doctor to make sure you’re getting the right amounts while choosing the right product to best deliver this precious substance.

It’s also important not to take too much fish oil or you could negate its benefits. According to the AHA, an adult can safely take up to 3 grams of fish oil every day. You shouldn’t take a higher dose than that without first consulting with your doctor to know that it’s safe and appropriate for your needs and health expectations.

Among the side effects associated with taking these supplements are: fishy breath, a fishy taste in the mouth, loose stool, stomach upset and nausea.