The benefits to the body of taking fish oil capsules involve the effects of Oomega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats, which are considered to be a healthy type of fat and can have effects mentally and physically. The American Heart Association recommends at least two servings of fatty fish each week. Fish oil capsules provide an additional option for people who are unable to eat fish several times per week for obtaining Omega-3s. Fish oil capsules should be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
Arthritis
Fish oil may potentially help with arthritis symptoms, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis according to Medline Plus. Some people use it as an adjunct to other medications as it can decrease the amount which needs to be taken of traditional medications. In the 2005 "Nutrition" journal, fish oil was shown to be effective in improving clinical lab values in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Heart Health
The benefits of fish oil regarding heart health deal with the Omega-3 fatty acid's role in reducing blood pressure, triglyceride levels and cholesterol. Omega-3s reduce the build up of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood stream by helping to clear them out. Omega-3s also have an anti-inflammatory role which is present in all three conditions. The 2006 "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" indicates that fish oil supplements reduce the rates of all-cause mortality, cardiac and sudden death, and possibly stroke.
Depression
Omega-3 fatty acid deficiency is associated with dysfunction in the cell membrane stability and transmission of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine which possibly provides a reason for mood alterations in depressed people, according to the 2009 "Neuro-Signals" journal. Due to this, supplementation with Omega-3 containing fish oils would provide a reasonable alternative treatment for depression. It is already being used by many with depression as it is considered safe to use under the direction of a doctor.
References
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition; N--3 Fatty Acids From Fish or Fish-oil Supplements, but Not α-Linolenic Acid, Benefit Cardiovascular Disease Outcomes in Primary- and Secondary-Prevention Studies: A Systematic review; Wang, et al.; 2006.
- Nutrition; Supplementation of Fish Oil and Olive Oil in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis; Burbert, et al. ; 2005.
- Neuro-Signals; Biological Mechanism of Antidepressant Effect of Omega--3 Fatty Acids: How Does Fish Oil Act as a 'Mind-Body Interface'?; Su, et al.;2009.
- Medline Plus: Fish oil
- American Heart Association Scientific Statement: Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations 2006 Revision
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