Omega-3 fatty acids are long-chain polyunsaturated fats found in certain foods, such as fish. The two most beneficial omega-3s are DHA (docosahexaenoic) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic); both are found in fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, lake trout and albacore tuna. Essential nutrients from fish oil help maintain a balanced production of hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins and offer many health benefits in the prevention of a wide range of diseases.
Battles Heart Disease
Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil benefit those who have cardiovascular disease or are at a high risk of the disease. Additionally, research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids reduce the risk of abnormal heartbeats, decrease triglyceride levels, slightly lower blood pressure and slow the growth rate of atherosclerotic plaque. For those with coronary artery disease and high trigylcerides, taking fish oil supplements provides more benefits than they would derive from the consumption of food, according to the American Heart Association website.
Potential Cancer Reducers
Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil are commonly taken by cancer patients and may reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancers. This includes breast, prostate and colon cancer. Fish oil reduces the growth of cancer cells.
Pregnancy Benefits
Omega-3s are essential for the early visual and neurological development of a baby. An increased intake has been shown to prevent early labor and delivery, increase birth weight, lower the risk of pre-eclampsia and reduce the risk of allergies in infants. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial after childbirth to help produce breast milk.
Mood Stabilizer
Fish oil is beneficial as a mood stabilizer and provides relief from depression, anxiety, stress, sadness, mental fatigue and other nervous disorders. Positive results have also been shown in postpartum depression. Additionally, research indicates therapeutic benefits in childhood depression.
Additional Benefits
Scientific evidence indicates that the omega-3-fatty-acid benefits of fish oil are used to treat a variety of diseases, according to the MedlinePlus website. This includes improvement in kidney function along with protection from toxicity in organ transplant patients, pain relief in joint tenderness and morning stiffness related to rheumatoid arthritis, a reduction in angina pectoris, relief from painful menstruation and a reduction of inflammation in patients with ulcerative colitis.
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