Salmon oil has many health benefits. Salmon, along with other fatty fish, contains an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids. The medical community has documented the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, and researchers are learning more about them all the time. Many people do not enjoy the taste of salmon and other types of fish, so salmon oil is a way to obtain the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids without eating fish. Our bodies are not equipped to manufacture omega-3 fatty acids on their own, so we must get it through the foods we eat and supplements. The choice between salmon oil and fish oil is a matter of personal preference. Both are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but salmon oil contains only salmon while fish oil contains mackerel, tuna and other fatty fishes, including salmon. If you do not eat fish at least twice a week, consider taking 1 to 3 grams of fish oil each day. At levels greater than 3 grams, there is an increased risk of side effects including bleeding.
Improved Heart Health
Salmon oil reduces inflammation that can lead to heart disease. Not only does salmon oil reduce the risk of heart disease, but, according to the Mayo Clinic, if someone has high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in his body and suffer a heart attack, the risk of dying in the immediate aftermath of the attack (within one hour) is dramatically reduced. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that supplementing with salmon oil may also lower the levels of triglycerides and LDL, or bad, cholesterol in the body.
Boost Your Brain
Salmon oil affects the brain in a variety of ways. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, it may slow the decline of cognitive function that is a common result of the aging process as well as the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids can reduce some symptoms of depression.
Ease Joint Pain
People who take supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids find that it reduces joint pain and arthritis symptoms. Salmon oil is a powerful anti-inflammatory, which is why it works so well to ease symptoms of joint pain. Omega-3 fatty acids can also ease the intense morning stiffness that is common in many cases of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.
Aids in Weight Loss
Dieters who supplemented their programs with omega-3 fatty acid found that they lost more weight than dieters eating the same number of calories but without the supplementation. "FLEX" magazine reports that omega-3 fatty acids are less likely to be stored as fat than unhealthy fats because the body utilizes them for important functions. A study released by Cambridge University shows a correlation between high levels of fatty acids in the body and lower body weight and abdominal fat storage.
Salmon Oil for Your Pet
Humans are not the only ones who can benefit from the addition of salmon oil to their diet. According to The Whole Dog, omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the symptoms of allergies in your pet, improve the quality of his coat and ease the pain of arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce the risk of your pet developing kidney disease. Many commercial pet foods contain much higher levels of omega-6 acids than omega-3 acids. Adding a salmon oil supplement can improve that to a healthier ratio of five to 10 parts omega-6 to one part omega-3. Most dogs and cats find the flavor of salmon oil supplements pleasing, and it may even perk up the appetite of an older animal that has trouble maintaining weight.
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