Omega-3 supplements have a wide range of potential health benefits. According to the University of Maryland, "Research shows that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and may help lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis."
The benefits of omega-3 supplements go far beyond answering the question "What is the omega-3 supplement good for" and begs the more accurate "What isn't this remarkable supplement good for?"
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are a special type of fat. They are found naturally, and in abundance, in cold water fish like salmon and mackerel. Most omega-3 supplements are derived from fish. However, there are other non-fish sources of omega-3 supplements such as flaxseed oil and krill oil.
Increase HDL
According to the Cleveland Clinic, omega-3 supplements can increase "good cholesterol," known as HDL cholesterol. Unlike LDL, which can lead to plaque deposits in arteries, HDL has been shown to remove them.
Anti-Inflammatory
"Time" magazine claims that chronic inflammation, a healing process within the body that spirals out of control, is the "secret killer" that leads to diseases as varied as Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, and diabetes. Omega-3 supplements reduce levels of inflammatory proteins in the blood, thereby reducing overall inflammation.
Death
Life-enhancement.com reports that omega-3 supplements can reduce the risk from all cause mortality or sudden death from any cause. Researchers think that omega-3s reduce the risk of death by preventing fatal arrhythmia and preventing heart attacks in people with pre-existing heart disease.
Sources
Most of the clinical research on omega-3 supplements and health have been conducted with fish-derived omega 3s. The health benefits from flaxseed oil and other forms of omega-3 supplements are not as clear.
Dangers
Contaminants like mercury, PCBs, and other heavy metals in omega-3 supplements have many people concerned. However, the "New York Times" has reported that these issues are largely overblown and says that "Studies suggest that fish oil products contain little or no contaminants."
Dosage
For cardiovascular health, the American Heart Association recommends that Americans get their omega-3 fat intake in the form of whole fish. However, if you don't like the taste of fish, they advise you to talk to your doctor before turning to fish oil supplements.
References
- UMMC: Omega-3 fatty acids
- Cleveland Clinic: Omega-3 Fatty Acids - heart healthy benefits
- "Time": Health: The Fires Within
- Life Enhancement: Omega-3 Fish Oils Reduce Mortality from All Causes
- "NY Times":The Claim: Fish Oil Supplements Can Contain Mercury
- American Heart Association: Fish and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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