Fish oil is a good source of the omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA. Since the body is poor at manufacturing these essential fatty acids, you must get them through your diet or supplementation. Evidence suggests that fish oil supplements can have several positive effects on the body. Consult your health care provider before taking any nutritional supplements.
Reduces Systolic Blood Pressure
EPA might have positive effects on blood pressure levels, according to a study conducted by researchers from Kobe University School of Medicine in Japan. Male patients with hypertension were randomly assigned either EPA or a placebo for eight weeks. At the end of the study, scientists observed that the EPA group experienced decreases in systolic blood pressure, which refers to arterial pressure when the heart is contracting, compared to those who were administered a placebo.
Improves Heart Health
Increasing omega-3 fatty acids in your diet might improve heart health. A report published in the August 2007 issue of the Mayo Clinic Health Letter revealed that omega-3s reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering triglycerides and blood clotting. In addition, it may reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death in patients suffering from heart disease. Take no more than 3g of omega-3s, since more than that may cause unwanted side effects such as bleeding.
Boosts Periodontal Health
EPA and DHA might boost periodontal health and prevent gum disease, according to a study conducted by lead investigator Dr. Asghar Naqvi and fellow researchers from Harvard Medical School. They discovered that subjects consuming the most DHA and EPA lowered their risk of developing periodontitis, an inflammatory condition in which gum tissue separates from the tooth, compared to those with the lowest intakes.
Combats Diabetes
Fish oil might combat diabetes by activating certain genes in your body. Dr. Yu-Hsiang Yu led a team of researchers from National Taiwan University who examined the effects of fish oil supplementation on gene expression. Their study revealed that fish oil supplementation activates genes that improve glucose metabolism, thereby reducing the high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes.
References
- "Hypertension Research"; Effects of Eicosapentaenoic Acid on Blood Pressure, Cell Membrane Fatty Acids, and Intracellular Sodium Concentration in Essential Hypertension; T. Miyajima, T. Tsujino, K. Saito and M. Yokoyama; September 2001
- Science Daily: Omega-3 Fatty Acids: A Way to Improve Heart Health
- NutraIngredients.com: Omega-3 May Reduce Gum Disease: Study
- NutraIngredients.com: Fish Oils May Help to Activate Anti-diabetic Genes: Study
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