Fish oils found in supplements or in fish like salmon, mackerel, herring and tuna are sources of omega-3 fatty acids, a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid important in supporting a number of bodily functions. People consume fish oils like these as a remedy to improve their health and help prevent various diseases.
Arthritis Relief
Fish oil can help provide rheumatoid arthritis relief. According to studies reported by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, high doses of fish oil not only minimized morning stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis patients, they also helped reduce the number of swollen joints as well as the need for cortisone steroid medications.
Cardiovascular Health
Whether taken in supplement form or by eating fish, fish oils can enhance cardiovascular health, according to evidence from several studies summarized by MayoClinic.com. These studies revealed that fish oil lowered triglycerides, reduced the risk of death, strokes, heart attack and abnormal heart rhythms in patients at risk for cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, the fish oil appeared to slow the build up of plaque in the arteries that leads to artery hardening, while also slightly lowering blood pressure.
Because high doses may be necessary to obtain these cardiovascular successes, and because high doses can cause bleeding, you should not attempt to take high doses of fish oil without first consulting a doctor.
Menstrual Cramps
Fish oil supplements may help lessen pain and cramps associated with menstruation. Known as dysmenorrhea, the findings of a 42-woman study summarized by the University of Maryland Medical Center indicated that those who took fish oil supplements had less pain than those who took a placebo. The website recommends women consume 3 to 4 oz. of fatty fish three to four times a week, or take 1,000 to 2,000 mg of fish oil supplement.
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