Fish oil contains the omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid, DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA. These healthy fats must be obtained through diet or supplementation, since the body cannot manufacture them on its own. Research indicates that omega-3 consumption can provide a wealth of benefits that enhance overall health. Consult your health care provider before consuming any fish oil supplements.
Eye Health
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School examined the relationship of omega-3 consumption and the incidence of age-related macular degeneration, an eye disease that is the leading cause of vision loss, in women. They reported in the March 2011 issue of the journal "Archives of Ophthalmology" that women with the highest intake of DHA and EPA decreased their risk of developing age-related macular degeneration compared to those with the lowest intake.
Cardiovascular Health
Scientists from Tufts University in Boston reviewed the clinical studies regarding omega-3 consumption and cardiovascular disease. They concluded that omega-3 fatty acids from fish and fish oil supplement reduces the risk of heart attack, cardiac and sudden death and possibly stroke, according to findings published in the July 2006 issue of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition."
Oral Health
Omega-3s might have beneficial effects on oral health, according to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Kentucky. They discovered that omega-3s exhibit strong anti-bacterial effects against oral pathogens, including Candida albicans, Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis. This in turn can improve oral health, according to research reported in the February 2010 issue of "Molecular Oral Microbiology."
Side Effects and Interactions
Omega-3 consumption might cause side effects, including bloating, diarrhea and gas. In addition, omega-3s might increase the risk for bleeding and interact with certain medications such as blood-thinning and diabetes medications, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Therefore, consult your health care provider before taking any fish oil supplements.
References
- "Archives of Ophthalmology"; Dietary -3 Fatty Acid and Fish Intake and Incident Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Women; W.G. Christen, et al.; March 2011
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; N-3 Fatty Acids From Fish or Fish Oil Supplements, But Not a-Linolenic Acids, Benefit Cardiovascular Disease Outcomes Primary and Secondary Prevention Studies: A Systematic Review; C. Wang, et al.; July 2006
- "Molecular Oral Microbiology"; A Novel Bioactivity of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Their Ester Derivatives; C.B. Huang, et al.; February 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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