Fish oil supplements typically contain the fatty acids Omega-3 and Omega-6. These fatty acids are essential for proper development and overall health, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, the body does not produce them. As such, they must be obtained from supplements or food. The physical and mental health benefits from fish oil are numerous, and continue to grow as more scientific studies are conducted.
Heart Disease
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the number one cause of death in America. Heart disease is associated with high triglyceride levels. Triglycerides are consumed from foods that are high in trans fat, saturated fat and cholesterol, such as meat. However, fatty fish such as albacore tuna, salmon, mackerel and lake trout, which contain Omega-3, actually lower triglyceride levels in the body and blood. As a result, Omega-3 reduces the risk of heart disease.
Omega-3 and Omega-6
In addition to its impact on the heart, Omega-3 assists the body in the formation of blood clots. Proper blood clotting is important for the prevention of strokes. Omega-3 also reduces blood pressure, aids in neurological development and alleviates inflammation. Omega-6 is important for the growth and development of skin, hair and bones. It also helps to fight infections and regulate metabolism.
Mental Illness
Certain types of mental illness, specifically mood disorders, have benefited from fish oil. For example, the consumption of fish oil seems to enhance the effectiveness of certain medications for depression called SSRIs. Although fish oil alone has not been demonstrated to lower depression, a low level of Omega-3 in the blood is associated with depression. In addition, the period between depressive episodes among sufferers of bipolar disorder is lessened by fish oil. However, fish oil has no impact on the mania associated with bipolar disorder.
Sources of Fish Oil
Both Omega-3 and Omega-6 are polyunsaturated fatty fish oils, and can be obtained through foods other than fish. For example, vegetable oils, such as soybean, canola and flax seed, contain Omega-3. Omega-3 can also be found in some green vegetables, such as spinach, and salad greens. Omega-6 is contained in safflower, corn and cottonseed oils. Foods high in Omega-6 are more prevalent in the Western diet than foods rich in Omega-3. Therefore, Dr. Frank Sacks of Harvard's School of Public Health recommends taking a daily supplement of Omega-3 in the amount of 500 mg.
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