Fish oil contains the essential fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA. These omega-3 fatty acids must be obtained through diet or supplementation, since the body cannot manufacture them. Research indicates that fish oil has many uses, from lowering inflammation to protecting against eye diseases. Consult your health care provider before taking any supplements.
Gene Expression
In research reported in the July 2009 issue of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," scientists from Wageningen University examined the impact of EPA and DHA on gene expression. They randomly assigned elderly subjects EPA and DHA or a placebo containing oleic acid sunflower oil daily for six months. At the end of the study, scientists observed that the EPA and DHA group altered gene expression toward a more anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic status compared to the placebo group.
Inflammation
Researchers from the University of Newcastle in New South Wales examined the impact of omega-3 fatty acids on C-reactive protein, an indicator of inflammation that is associated with heart disease. They discovered that subjects with higher blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids had lower levels of C-reactive protein, according to research reported in the April 2009 issue of the "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition."
Eye Health
Scientists from Louisiana State University Health Science Center studied the role of omega-3 fatty acids on eye diseases. They reported in the April 2006 journal of "Trends in Neuroscience," that DHA increases the expression of gene proteins that protect the retina of the eye from damage and stimulates the production of neuroprotectin D-1, which inhibits genes that cause eye inflammation. This in turn protects the eye against diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and retina pigmentosa.
Artery Health
In research reported in the February 2009 issue of the journal "Arteriolosclerosis," researchers from Columbia University in New York examined the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on artery health. They discovered that mice adhering to a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids prevented the buildup of fat in the aorta, the main artery that leaves the heart and sends blood throughout the body, compared to mice following a typical Western diet.
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