Cod liver oil has been taken by the spoonful in nations across the world for centuries, in order to prevent malnutrition and illness, promote good health in children, and ease the pain of arthritic joints. Luckily for today's communities, there are now capsule supplements to help people reap the health advantages of omega-3 fatty acids without the off-putting taste of pure fish oil.
Incorporating a daily serving of fish oil into your daily diet can result in less joint pain, healthier brain activity, easier weight loss, improved heart health, decreased bouts of depression, and healthy, glowing skin.
Fish Oil to Treat Inflammation and Joint Pain
The omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids found in fish oil supplements help reduce the production of bodily chemicals that cause inflammation and the resulting pain. Fish oil supplements have proven to reduce morning stiffness and chronic joint pain, even when associated with rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.
It is also believed that these inflammation-fighting fatty acids assist with the relief of symptoms associated with Crohn's disease and lupus. In addition, many athletes and body builders take fish oil to prevent soreness associated with training, and assist with muscle recovery.
Fish Oil for a Healthy Brain
Beginning in the womb, the fatty acids that fish oil provides assist with brain development. Proper intake of omega-3s helps maintain good mental focus levels in both children and adults. For this reason, fish oil is thought to prevent and treat certain behavioral disorders and learning disabilities, such as ADD, ADHD, and dyslexia.
Additionally, fish oil is associated with the prevention of Alzheimer's disease and dementia, and with overall good brain health. This is attributed to the fatty acids' capabilities to fight the buildup of beta-amyloid plaque found in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients.
Although studies are ongoing and, thus far, inconclusive, it has been suggested that fish oil may even help prevent bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental illnesses. Fish oil is also associated with mood enhancement, as a dietary lack of fatty acids can cause depression.
Fish Oil for a Healthy Heart
A diet including fish or fish oil can help prevent cardiovascular disease and heart failure. The omega-3s in fish oil assist in the prevention of heart attack and cardiovascular death, maintenance of healthy blood flow and cholesterol levels, and regulation of triglycerides and blood pressure. It is often recommended as a supplement for patients recovering from heart attacks, as its blood-thinning characteristics help prevent recurring cardiovascular issues.
Fish Oil for Healthy Weight Loss
Fish oil has been found to be a helpful supplement in weight loss, along with a healthy diet and exercise. Fatty acids help to maintain high metabolism, balance hormones, and prevent the conversion and storage of fat cells.
Fish oil also helps prevent the depression that sometimes accompanies dieting by maintaining proper levels of fatty acids in the body.
Fish Oil for Beautiful and Healthy Skin and Hair
The addition of fish oil to a balanced diet can improve the appearance of skin, thanks to the omega-3s found within. The skin beauty benefits include balanced oil production, reduced acne, wrinkle prevention, greater resistance to sun damage, proper skin hydration, and stimulated collagen and elastin production, all of which provide a younger-looking and healthy appearance. Fish oil may also treat certain skin issues, such as eczema and psoriasis.
The same helpful elements in fish oil assist in hair health. Fish oil is associated with shinier, stronger hair.
Fish Oil for Overall Health
Fish oil is also active in building a strong immune system and fighting cancer. With the benefits it provides the joints, heart, brain, mood, and appearance, why not give fish oil a try? As always, check with a doctor before altering your diet or taking new supplements.
Sources:
www.keyfishoilbenefits.com, "Is Fish Oil Good for Your Skin?" (accessed April 2, 2010).
www.mayoclinic.com, "Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Fish Oil, Linolenic Acid" (accessed April 2, 2010).
www.americanchronicle.com, "Fish Oil is Fuel for Your Brain" (accessed April 2, 2010).
www.healthyfishoils.com, "Cod Liver, Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs), and Fish Diet Benefits" (accessed April 2, 2010).
Melissa Parks - Melissa M. Parks began her practice in writing with her first publication in the second grade, and now holds a BA in creative writing from ...
