Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil are important nutrients the body needs and must acquire through supplements or diet. Fatty acids from fish have beneficial effects, including lower triglyceride levels, fewer cardiac arrhythmias and less coronary artery disease, lower blood pressure, reduced risk of liver cancer and dementia, and reduced symptoms of depression, according to HelpGuide.org.
Eicosapentaenoic acid
Eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, is an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish. EPA helps to lower the risk of heart disease and is an important part of a healthy diet, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It has anti-inflammatory effects that have beneficial effects on disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, depression, heart disease, lupus, menstrual pain, Raynaud's syndrome, type 2 diabetes, obesity, ulcerative colitis and osteoarthritis.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
Docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, is also an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish. DHA is necessary for optimal function of our brains as adults. It's also necessary for the development of visual abilities and the nervous system during the first six months of life. Although the body naturally produces small amounts of DHA, people must get the amounts needed through diet or with supplements, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Warnings
Large fish, including shark, king mackerel and tile fish, also known as golden bass or golden snapper, may contain toxic chemicals such as mercury, dioxins and other environmental contaminants, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. It recommends that pregnant and nursing women and young children avoid eating certain types of fish. The doctors group advises high-quality, fish-oil supplements that do not contain contaminants. The American Cancer Society warns that there is not enough evidence about omega-3 fatty acids to determine whether they are safe in large quantities or when taken with other medications. Omega-3s can inhibit blood clotting. People who take aspirin or blood-thinning medications, also called anticoagulants, should not take omega-3 fatty acids due of the risk of excessive bleeding.
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