The Positives of Fish Oil

The Positives of Fish Oil
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Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acid, an essential fatty acid not produced by the human body. Omega-3 serves an important role in the function of the brain. It also helps in the proper growth and development of the body. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, many patients take fish oil supplements to decrease their risk for cardiovascular diseases. In fact, the American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of omega-3 fatty acid in your diet and recommends the intake of fish at least twice a week.

Supplements Can Decrease Fat Levels in the Blood

The University of Maryland Medical Center says regular fish oil consumption can decrease your triglycerides -- fats in the blood -- and increase the level of HDL, the good cholesterol. High triglyceride levels in the blood predispose you to developing atherosclerosis, the hardening of blood vessels due to the accumulation of fatty plaques on the vessel wall.

Omega-3 fatty Acids From Fish Oil

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic health problem that mainly affects the joints, regular intake of fish oil supplements may help reduce joint pain.

May Lower Death Rates From Cardiovascular Diseases

The National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine says fish oil supplementation may lower death rates caused by cardiovascular problems. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some clinical studies suggest that the regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids may decrease your risk for the development of cardiovascular diseases -- including hypertension and high cholesterol level -- thereby decreasing death rates from this problem.

May Lower Risk for Stroke

The University of Maryland Medical Center says omega-3 fatty acids from fish can decrease your tendency to develop stroke by preventing the buildup of fatty plaques within the blood vessels of the brain. However, the UMMC also warns the public of the overconsumption of omega-3 fatty acids. This may lead to increased bleeding, predisposing you to hemorrhagic stroke, a type of stroke that results from brain blood leaks and blood vessel ruptures.

References

Article reviewed by Anton Alden Last updated on: Feb 18, 2011

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