We’ve all heard that fish oil, also known as Omega-3 fatty acid supplement, is good for you. But the benefits of the powerful supplement doesn’t stop at your heart. Omega-3 fatty acids promote good health by reducing inflammation and fighting cardiovascular disease. Other potential benefits can include helping your brain function effectively, relieving joint pain, and easing the symptoms of mood disorders. The American Heart Association recommends the equivalent of two fish servings per week, ideally from fish with high levels of DHA and EPA.
Prevent muscle loss and reduce body fat
Many sources report that fish oil reduces body fat, perhaps by lowering inflammation and regulating hormones. Studies on people undergoing chemotherapy show that fish oil helps preserve muscle tone and prevent muscle loss. One key learning point is that doses higher than recommended don’t provide any further health benefit and can cause uncomfortable and painful side effects.
Softer and younger-looking skin
Fish oil supplements protect your skin and nourish it from the inside. One of the crucial ingredients in Nordic Naturals fish oil is the Omega-3 fatty acid called eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). It regulates your skin’s natural oil production to boost hydration and prevent wrinkles and aging. Healthy, balanced skin is less likely to sunburn, flake, or break out into acne.
Helps fight depression and anxiety
Scientists are studying the effects of fish oil on depression because the condition appears less commonly in countries where fish is a significant part of the diet. The brain depends on two Omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), to function properly. Studies show that doses between 1 and 2 g/day of an EPA+DHA combination like in fish oil has the potential to benefit those with mood disorders.
Increases absorption of calcium
Maintaining bone density is critical once you pass 40 years old and no longer build bone mass. Most people can significantly slow bone loss through proper nutrition and regular exercise. Studies show that Omega-3 fatty acids increase the calcium absorbed and limit how much calcium is lost to urine, so having a proper amount of fish oil in your diet can help you maintain a healthy bone density.
Less menstrual pain
Several studies concluded that young women report fewer menstrual cramps and less pain when taking a fish oil supplement. Combining the fish oil supplement with vitamin B12 also resulted in less painful menstrual cycles. Theories about the effects of fish oil on the mental symptoms during menstruation have led many doctors to recommend the supplement to ease the symptoms of PMS.
Choose a high-quality supplement
Now that you know how fish oil can benefit your brain, joints, weight, and mood, it’s time to give your body what it needs. Choose a supplement that is sourced ethically, without overfishing or otherwise harming the ocean ecosystem. In the US, the FDA doesn’t regulate supplements, so look for high-quality suppliers that meet or exceed the rigorous standards of governing boards for purity, like the European Pharmacopoeia Standard (EPS), the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), or the Global Organization for EPA and DHA-3 (GOED).
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