Is Fish Oil Healthy?

Recently there is a lot of buzz on the effects of fish oil on the human body. The benefit of such an essential fatty acids which is contained within the fish oil is tremendous and has become a research topic for scientists, who are calling it the miracle of the 21^st century. But do we have any idea of what exactly are these fish oils and what they consist of and most important why are they good for us.

Fish oils are known to contain fatty acids which are very necessary for our health. Our body doesn’t have the capacity to produce such fatty acids. The only way to get them is through either food or supplements. Fish oil is generated through the tissues of fish and hence fish is an essential food product needed by humans. This fatty acid obtained from fish is also known as Omega 3 or polyunsaturated fatty acids.

The most common way to procure Omega 3 for the human body is by eating fish such as salmon, tuna and halibut. Omega 3 is abundantly found in these fishes. But since people do not know the benefits of consuming fish oil they do not eat enough, to get the required amount of these fatty acids which is essentially needed by the body.

Some of the most important health benefits of consuming fish oils or omega 3 fatty acids every day are stated below.

The presence of Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) which are the most dominant fats present in the human body are found in fish oils. DHA is required for providing optimal mental performance in the form of cognitive function, memory building, being focused and learning ability as well as for visual perception; thus making it an essential fatty acid for brain development. On the other hand EPA plays a vital role in regulating blood flow and maintains a healthy heart.

Fish oils lower the level of LDL cholesterol which is bad for the human heart and increases the level of HDL cholesterol, which is good for the human heart. It also prevents the accumulation of triglycerides which blocks the arteries hence effectively treating heart attack, strokes and abnormal heart rhythms as well as improves blood circulation. This finding is supported by the clinical trials carried out by the American Heart Association.

Arthritis, rheumatism and similar conditions can be treated by regular intake of fish oils. They reduce the impact of enzymes which destroy cartilages as well as provide relief from chronic inflammation. Studies have shown that Omega 3 has helped in increasing grip strength, reduce joint stiffness and pain and improve walking pace.

Fish oils are good for reducing depression, sadness, anxiety, restlessness, mental fatigue and stress. The central nervous system consists of a chemical named Serotonin which contributes towards the happiness and well-being in humans. Fish oils or Omega 3 is known to increase the level of serotonin.