Fish oil has received much attention regarding its potential health benefits. However, not all fish oil brands are created equally. Differences exist in the types and, therefore, potential health value of various brands. Because of the possibility of mercury contamination, only purchase products from a well-known and established company rather than cheaper brands. As with any nutritional supplement, consult your doctor before taking fish oil if you have diabetes or liver disease, according to the Drugsite Trust.
Benefits
Lowering your blood triglycerides is one of the primary health benefits of fish oils, according to the Mayo Clinic. High triglycerides are a major risk factor in the development of heart disease. Fish oils may improve your cardiovascular health by lowering your blood pressure, according to a 2004 study published in the "American Journal of Hypertension." Not only can fish oil act as a preventive, it can also be used as a treatment. A 2010 study in the "Current Treatment Options in Cardiovascular Medicine" recommended fish oil for treating patients with known cardiovascular disease or congestive heart failure.
Types
Fish oil brands use a variety of fish to produce this nutritional supplement. However, the type of fish may affect its health benefits. The University of Minnesota Extension recommends using fish oil made from fish with high levels of N-3 fatty acid, the active agent for health benefits. Species include tuna, whitefish, mackerel and salmon. Avoid products containing halibut, pike or walleye because these supplements will have less health benefits.
Considerations
Some people avoid taking fish oil because they may cause an unpleasant taste after ingestion. This factor is where you will also see some variations between the different brands of fish oils. Some products sell supplements with lemon, orange or other flavors to get around the taste issue. You can also avoid this effect by taking fish oil capsules with a meal.
FDA Approval
In 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the health claims surrounding the prevention of coronary heart disease with fish oil supplementation. LOVAZA® is the only FDA-approved fish oil capsule on the market, available only by prescription. Of the fish oil products available, it is the only one in which the manufacture of the product is reviewed by the FDA, an important consideration when comparing brands of fish oil.
Side Effects
No matter what brand of fish oil you take, you should be aware that taking this nutritional supplement may have side effects. Some people may experience nausea or a mild skin rash from taking fish oil. Other reported side effects include gastrointestinal distress, back pain and flu-like symptoms. Because of its effect on the cardiovascular system, you may want to avoid taking fish oil if you are currently taking blood thinners such as warfarin, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fish oil offers a way to improve your cardiovascular health, which may be right for you.
References
- Drugsite Trust: Fish Oil
- Mayo Clinic: Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements: Lower Your Numbers Without Prescription Medication
- "American Journal of Hypertension"; Effects of Long-Term Intake of Edible Oils on Hypertension and Myocardial and Aortic Remodeling in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats; M. Aguila et al; May 2004
- "Current Treatment Options in Cardiovascular Medicine"; Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention; A. Defilippis et al; August 2010
- University of Minnesota Extension: Fish Oil and Your Health
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: FDA Announces Qualified Health Claims for Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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