Fish Oil For Hypercholerolemia

Cholesterol is a white, waxy, fat-like substance that is required to maintain the structure and function of cell membranes and for production of bile in the liver. Your body produces the required amounts of cholesterol in the liver. It is also obtained by consuming fatty foods. Increased levels of the fat in the blood can lead to hypercholerolemia, or hypercholesterolemia, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Along with diet and exercise, certain medications may help control blood cholesterol levels. Fish oil may also help manage hypercholerolemia.

About Fish Oil

Fish oil can be obtained by eating fish such as mackerel, tuna, salmon, sardines and trout, and from fish oil supplements. They are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fatty acids required for proper brain function and overall growth and development. They may also help reduce inflammation. Your doctor may, thereby, recommend fish oil or omega-3 fatty acid supplements to treat a variety of conditions including heart disease, arthritis, certain cancers, depression, ADHD and Alzheimer's disease.

Link Between Fish Oil and Cholesterol

Omega-3 fatty acids obtained from fish oil can increase the levels of HDL, or good cholesterol, and lower the levels of triglycerides. Fish oil supplements along with red yeast rice are as effective as the drug simvastatin in lowering the levels of cholesterol and other fats in the blood, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A study published in the February 2000 issue of the journal "Journal of American College of Cardiology" also points out that fish omega-3 can help dilate the arteries in individuals with hypercholesterolemia. Fish oil supplements, however, may raise cholesterol levels in hypercholesterolemia patients with normal triglyceride levels, says cardiologist Eric J. Topol in the book "Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine."

Side Effects

Fish oil supplements may lead to other side effects including nausea, vomiting, bad breath, heartburn and nose bleeding. MedlinePlus also warns that consuming more than 3 g of fish oil supplements per day may increase the risk of bleeding. It may also reduce the efficiency of the immune system and interfere with certain blood pressure and contraceptive medications.

Precautions

Although fish oil supplements are available at most pharmacies without a prescription, always talk to a doctor before using them to avoid the possible adverse reactions and drug interactions. Inform your doctor about pre-existing conditions and any other medications you might be taking.