Fish oil is made from the tissue of oily fish, including salmon, mackerel, tuna and herring. It is available in either liquid or tablet form. The liquid is more expensive, so the tablets may be more convenient if you are minding a budget. There are benefits to taking both forms. Consult your doctor before using fish oil supplements.
What is Fish Oil?
Fish oil is a supplement that consists of omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentenoic acid, which is known as EPA, and docosahexenoic acid, which is known as DHA. Fish oil is claimed to prevent heart disease, reduce autoimmune disorders and improve brain function and memory. EHA and DHA in the form of fish oil supplements slow the buildup of plaque in the arteries and lowers blood pressure.
Absorption
Most of the benefits of fish oil come from the omega-3 fatty acids. Your body cannot produce its own omega-3, therefore it needs to come from dietary sources. The full benefits of fish oil take effect once the supplement is absorbed. The liquid fish oil is absorbed faster than the tablet form, because the body has to breakdown the tablet before your body can absorb it.
Taste
Fish oil available in liquid form can have an unpleasant, fishy taste. For this reason, many manufacturers now make fish oil liquid in different flavors such as strawberry, orange or lemon. For some, this may mask the strong taste; however, some will still have a problem with the taste. You can mix the liquid into smoothies to help disguise the taste. The tablet form is tasteless; however, you may experience a fishy taste in your mouth after digestion.
Warnings
According to UC Berkeley Wellness Guide, healthy individuals should get their fish oil by eating fish instead of taking supplements. There are mild side effects from large doses of fish oil such as nausea, diarrhea and belching. Also, large doses could increase the risk of stroke, suppress the immune system and decrease glucose control in diabetics. People with coronary heart disease, high triglycerides or autoimmune disorders should consult their physician before starting fish oil supplementation. It is recommended they take between 2 to 4g of fish oil per day.
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