What Is Carlson's Fish Oil Good For?

Carlson is a brand of fish oil supplements. Much like other fish oil products, these supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Omega-3 fatty acids are often used as a natural form of treatment for conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease.

High Blood Pressure

Carlson Nutritional Supplements offers a number of different fish oil products that contain the omega-3 fatty acid DHA. DHA is known to lower blood pressure, according to the Mayo Clinic. Supplementing the diet with any one of these fish oil products could help in the treatment of hypertension. However, the American Heart Association recommends using omega-3 fatty acid supplements under the supervision of a qualified medical professional -- not only for purposes of dosage, but also due to the increased risk of excessive bleeding.

High Triglycerides

Another benefit of Carlson's fish oil supplements is in the treatment of high triglycerides. Triglycerides are a form of fat found in the bloodstream. Any calories not used by the body are converted into triglycerides, which elevates triglyceride levels in the blood. As triglyceride levels increase, the arterial walls can begin to accumulate fatty deposits, explains the Mayo Clinic. This can cause the arteries to narrow and harden, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. Both of the omega-3 fatty acids found in Carlson's fish oil supplements can lower triglyceride levels, helping to prevent all of these conditions.

Cardiovascular Disease

The omega-3 fatty acids in Carlson's fish oil combined with traditional heart medications reduce the risk of heart attack in people with a history of cardiovascular disease, asserts the National Institutes of Health. The Mayo Clinic further explains that fish oil is thought to improve the efficacy of conventional heart medications, since most patients take the supplement in conjunction with traditional treatment methods. A doctor can best determine the appropriate dosage for you and your condition.

Arthritis

Carlson's fish oil may also help to improve symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis, advises the University of Maryland Medical Center. A study conducted by the department of internal medicine at Londrina State University in 2003 demonstrated that 3 g of fish oil with omega-3 fatty acids improved joint pain, hand-grip strength, stiffness and mobility in as little as 12 weeks of use for people living with rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil was used in conjunction with their usual medication, so fish oil alone doesn't necessarily treat this form of arthritis.

Cyclosporine Toxicity

According to the Mayo Clinic, fish oil supplements can help prevent toxicity due to cyclosporine after organ transplantation. Cyclosporine is a prescription medication that helps to suppress the immune system so that the body may better accept a transplanted organ. However, this drug can impair kidney function as well as elevate blood pressure. Fish oil combats both of these side effects. It's most beneficial in cases of heart and kidney transplants.