In recent years, Fish Oil capsules as a supplement have garnered more and more attention. Many regard this product as a miracle substance, and in many ways it is. The most beneficial part of the fish oil is the omega 3 fatty acids that are found in it.
In many Western countries, such as the U.S., many people are deficient in these essential fats, mostly due to the diet of Westerners. Sea food – fatty fish in particular – are not a staple of the Western diet. Compared to other countries, particularly in Asia where seafood is a staple of the diet, the U.S. has higher rates of heart disease. Since then, a myriad of health benefits have been linked to consuming this supplement.
What Exactly Are Omega 3 Fatty Acids?
Omega 3 fatty acids contain two substances that are important to the body but that cannot be produced internally, two acids called docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, or DHA and EPA, respectively. These two substances are much more present in Asiatic societies than they are in Western societies, and it is believe that this is a large factor in contributing to the lesser risk of heart disease in Asian populations. But Omega 3’s have much more health benefits than just that of the heart.
Omega 3’s have been linked to healthier skin, joints, brain, heart, and can even help increase your vision. It lowers bad cholesterol, and can even increase fertility. It also helps anti-aging and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. A daily dose of Omega 3’s benefits all of this by:
Lubricating joints: The fats keep joints lubed, resulting is less grinding wear and tear as you go about your daily business. It also decreases inflammation of joints.
Plumping up wrinkles: The third layer of our skin consists mostly of fats that thin out as we get older. Omega 3’s plump back up that layer and makes our skin look fuller.
Maintaining our eyes: The retinas in our eyes are covered by a soft layer of membranes. If these membranes are deficient in DHA, the process that converts light energy into the data that travels into our brain is slowed.
Keeps the heart pumping: It seems like Omega 3’s and the human heart were made for each other. They reduce triglycerides, stabilizes heartbeats, keep platelets in the blood from clumping together, and can even lower blood pressure.
Clears your skin: The acids helps contribute to clear skin, especially in the absence of sugar.
Reduces Cholesterol: Increases good cholesterol (HDL) and helps to keep arteries clear.
Boosts the brain: Keeping your arteries directly contributes to increased blood flow to the brain. Omega 3s have also been linked to reducing depression by altering neurotransmitters, and have even been used successfully in treating ADHD.
Increases fertility: This happens in both males and females by improving the sperm’s swimming abilities and by creating an ideal environment for the eggs implantation.
What to Look For in Fish Oil Supplements
With all these incredible benefits coming from just one substance, it’s no wonder that fish oil has gotten such a large amount of attention lately! By now you have probably made up your mind to go out and get some. Please do! But there are some things that you need to keep in mind while looking for a supplement.
First, fish oils supplements vary in the amount of DHA and EPA they contain. Some fish oil, such as salmon oil, naturally contains more DHA than EPA. Krill oil contains large amounts of both. Be sure you read the labels so that you know what you are buying before you make the purchase.
Second, it is good to know that some fish oil supplements contain more than just fish oil. Many supplements include vitamin E and other antioxidants, used to keep fish oils from becoming rancid. In this case, it is best to refrigerate these supplements – always be sure to check the bottle.
It is important to also note that, in the U.S., the American Heart Association has defined the upper allowable limit of how much fish oil should be taken as 3 grams. Nasty side effects, including easier bleeding can, can be the resultant of higher doses. Always consult a doctor before taking more that 3 grams daily.
Can I Increase Omega 3’s Without Supplements?
Of course! While amazon fish oil supplements may be a more efficient means of increasing the intake of Omega 3’s, it can be argued that the more natural way of receiving Omega 3’s, through diet, is healthier than supplements. There are many foods – not just fish! – are rich in Omega 3’s.
The best fish includes wild caught (always wild caught) salmon or tuna, though it is present in just about every fish. You can also receive Omega 3’s from other fatty foods such as avocados, walnuts and almonds, and even olive oil.