Fish oil supplements, derived from the tissues of oily fish, contain two essential fatty acids, EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) that, combined, deliver many health benefits, including the reduction of inflammation throughout the body. Although fish themselves do not produce the oil, they accumulate omega-3 fatty acids through the consumption of micoalgae or other fish high in omega-3 fatty acids.
Per 3-ounce serving, Salmon carries the highest concentration of omega-3 fatty acids (1.1-1.9g), followed by predatory fish shark, swordfish and tilefish (.83-.97g). High concentrations are also found in Halibut (.60-1.12g) and flounder (.48). Though frequently consumed, canned tuna falls at the lower end of the scale (.21-24). While the American Heart Association recommends the consumption of 1g of fish oil daily for patients with coronary heart disease, eating fresh fish every day may not be a part of most people’s regular diet or may not attain to the dosage recommended. Fish oil supplements fill in what may otherwise be missing from natural foods.
Among the health benefits, studies in the Cancer Epidemiology journal indicate that patients who took fish oil supplements had a 32% lower risk of breast cancer (causal relationship undetermined). Three diseases for which the US National Institutes of Health recommend the use of omega-3 acids include: hypertriglyceridemia, secondary cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure (but not to exceed 3g daily).
Other studies in England and Finland suggest that omega-3 fatty acids are responsible for neuronal growth of the frontal cortex of the brain that may affect personal behavior, producing less agitation. An Australian study records the use of omega-3 to prevent schizophrenia, and onset in patients after 1 year reduced by 8 times. It is also purported that fish oil may exert a neuroprotective action in Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and some depressive patients, which reduces depletion of dopamine.
Fish oil supplementation is recommended during pregnancy for fetal brain, nervous system, and visual sensory development, because of insufficient western diets, as well as for reduction of an infant’s food allergies and severe skin sensitivity. Omega-3 fish oil benefits both the mother and child, especially when breast-feeding.
Additional health benefits of fish oil supplements, such as Barlean’s Fish Oil Supplements, and EPA / DHA continued to be researched.
