Fish oil is basically the fat or the oil extracted from fish tissue. It ideally comes from oily fish like mackerel, tuna, anchovies, etc. It’s also sometimes produced from the livers of other fish, therefore cod liver oil. The reason why fish oil is considered as an essential part of our diet is that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish have many health benefits, especially protection against a number of diseases.
You are what you eat, therefore it’s important to consume the right things to ensure that we pack the essential nutrients required for our body to perform efficiently and effectively. Some benefits of including fish oil in your diet are:
No.1 – It Improves Heart Health
The Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil increases the “good” or HDL cholesterol and decreases the “bad” or LDL cholesterol.
Therefore, it reduces plaque build-up in the arteries and can regulate your cholesterol levels which leads to better heart health.
No.2 – Can Improve Mental Health
The human brain is made up of almost 60% fat, most of which are Omega-3 fatty acids. Hence, a minimum intake of Omega 3s is essential for normal brain functions. Some studies even state that the cause of certain mental disorders could be because of extremely low levels of Omega 3 in the blood.
Fish oil supplements could even reduce the symptoms of certain psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorders.
No.3 – Improves Eye Health
Studies state that people who don’t get the required amount of Omega 3s have a greater risk of eye diseases.
Apart from this, your eye health just like everything else deteriorates with age. Eating fish can reduce the risk of this.
No.4 – May Improve Your Skin Health
The skin is the largest organ in the human body and it contains a lot of Omega-3 fatty acids. Your skin gets damaged with age or may even deteriorate because of over exposure to the sun.
Fish oil supplements can reduce this and could even improve your skin health.
No.5 – Supports Pregnancy & Early Life
Omega 3s are extremely important for early growth and development. Therefore, it’s essential that mothers get enough Omega-3s during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Fish oil supplements are essential for pregnant mothers as they’re important for the development of the infant and building immunity especially in terms of reducing the risk of allergies.
Apart from these Omega 3s contain many more benefits. However, keep in mind that eating whole foods is always better than taking supplements and if you have the option of getting in the required amount of Omega 3s through your food, that’s what you should do!
