Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, specifically the two fatty acids known as docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA. Because the body requires these fatty-acid compounds to function but cannot produce them, doctors refer to them as essential acids. Without adequate amounts of the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, the body may produce symptoms of a deficiency.
Function
The body needs omega-3 fatty acids to help control blood clotting by preventing platelets from clumping together. These fatty acids in fish oil also help build the membranes of cells in the brain. Without sufficient levels of omega-3 fatty acids, these functions may become inhibited.
Symptoms
A person who fails to consume enough foods containing omega-3 fatty acids may develop a deficiency. Because cells of the brain depend upon these fatty acids, a deficiency may cause poor memory, mood swings and depression, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Additional symptoms of a deficiency include fatigue, dry skin, heart problems and poor circulation.
Sources
Consuming fish provides the best source of fish oil. Fish rich in the beneficial omega-3 fatty acids include mackerel, tuna, salmon, herring, trout, bluefish, mullet, anchovies and sardines. Approximately 3.5 oz. of one of these fish provides 1 g of omega-3 fatty acid, according to MedLine Plus. Those who fail to consume enough fish can avoid a deficiency by taking fish oil supplements. The dose of a supplement depends upon the presence of conditions that may benefit from the fish oil, but doctors recommend taking no more than 3 g of fish oil per day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Benefits
In addition to avoiding a deficiency, you can get many health benefits by taking fish oil supplements. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil help to reduce inflammation, which can help those with chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil also decreases the risk of heart disease by decreasing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels and slowing the progression of atherosclerosis -- the formation of plaque in the blood vessels. Ingesting the recommended amounts of fish oil also boosts brain function and can help those suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Precautions
Just as a deficiency of fish oil and the omega-3 fatty acids can cause symptoms, getting too much omega-3 fatty acids can cause health problems. Because omega-3 fatty acids help to control blood clotting, taking more than the recommended 3 g may increase the risk for excessive bleeding, especially for those with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications such as warfarin or aspirin.
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