Fish oil contains omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, essential fatty acids the human body cannot make but requires to function properly. EPA and DHA are the most important components of fish oil. EPA improves heart and immune health, while DHA is essential for the brain, eyes, and nervous system. Human consumption of oily fish, such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel is a primary source of fish oil. Synthetic fish oil supplements are also available.
Infant Development
Fish oil taken during pregnancy improves cognitive and visual development in infants. Benefits of fish oil supplementation during pregnancy also helps the mother by decreasing the risk of pre-term labor, pre-eclampsia and post-partum depression. Prenatal vitamins are either packaged with fish oil or can be purchased separately. The International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids recommends 500mg of EPA and DHA daily, while pregnant and lactating women should take 300mg of DHA daily.
High Triglycerides
Fish oil can reduce elevated levels of fat in the blood, called triglycerides. High triglyceride levels may increase the risk of heart disease. Two to four grams of fish oil daily reduces triglyceride levels 20 to 50 percent. Over-the-counter fish oil supplements do not contain enough EPA and DHA per capsule to lower triglycerides without taking a lot of capsules. Lovaza is a prescription form of fish oil that is U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved and each capsule contains 1g of EPA and DHA.
Heart Disease
The American Heart Association recommends weekly consumption of two, 3.5-oz. portions of fish to prevent heart disease in otherwise healthy people. Those with a history of heart disease benefit from additional fish oil supplementation, typically 1 gram daily. Fish oil is thought to improve outcomes in heart disease patients because it reduces blood pressure, slow plaque build up in the arteries, and regulates the heart rhythm.
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