Omega 3 Fish Oil Benefits

What is omega 3 fish oil and what benefits does this oil hold for you?

Omega 3 Fish Oil

Omega 3 fish oil contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These omega 3 fish fatty acids are the components of fish oil that require your attention.

Omega 3 Fatty Acid Benefits

What can omega 3 fish oil do for you?

Omega 3 fatty acids can:

There is good scientific evidence that omega 3 fatty acids might:

Many suggest that omega 3 fatty acids:

However, scientific evidence to date does not yet conclusively prove these claims.

Foods High in Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Alphalinolenic Acid (ALA)

Some foods contain alpha-linolenic acid, another type of omega 3 fatty acid. While not as potent as other types of omega 3 fatty acids, ALA can also be beneficial to you. Foods with ALA include:

Omega 3 Fatty Acids Safety

Keep in mind that the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the manufacture of omega 3 fatty acids. Therefore, make sure that you read the labels of the product that you are considering purchasing before you spend your money. The Food and Drug Administration suggests that you can take up to three grams of omega 3 fatty acids daily. It is also always wise to check with your doctor about taking any type of supplement.

People who are allergic to fish or fish oil should only take products that are made using ALA while people who are allergic to nuts should only use products that contain fatty acids derived from fish.

Side effects of taking omega 3 fatty acids might include:

Check to see if the supplement that you are considering contains vitamin E. Many products do because taking fish oil over a long period of time can lead to vitamin E deficiencies. If you are also taking vitamin E supplements, you may end up with too much vitamin E in your system.

If you have low blood pressure or are taking medication to lower your blood pressure, consult your physician before taking omega 3 fatty acids. In addition, if you experience any side effects, stop taking omega 3 fatty acids and consult your doctor right away.

Fish, Omega 3 Fish Oil, and Mercury

According to the American Heart Association, the benefits of eating fish usually outweigh the possible negative side effects of consuming mercury and other contaminants, particularly for men who are middle aged and older and women who have gone through menopause. The American Heart Association suggests women who are considering getting pregnant, are pregnant, or are nursing avoid eating fish with possible high mercury contaminants, such as shark and swordfish. The Heart Association also recommends that children avoid fish that may have high mercury content. In addition, the Association suggests mixing the types of fish that you eat to minimize possible contaminants.

~Laura Evans Staff Editor