Are Fish Oil & Multivitamins Enough?

Are Fish Oil & Multivitamins Enough?
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Fish oil and multivitamins both contain several health benefits, with the heart and circulatory system benefiting the most. However, just taking fish supplements along with multivitamins is not enough to sustain good health. Regular exercise and eating balanced meals along with these measures can boost your health significantly.

Fish Oil Benefits

Fish oil supplements are made by extracting oils from fatty fish such as tuna, salmon, sardines and trout. These fish contain heart-healthy unsaturated fat called omega-3 fatty acid. According to the National Institutes of Health website MedlinePlus, fish oil supplements are good at treating high triglyceride levels. Fish oil may also be helpful in preventing heart disease in people that do not have it and reducing the risk of death from heart disease in people who do have it.

Multivitamin Benefits

Multivitamins contain B-complex vitamins, which are needed for skin, hair, nail, nerve, muscle and brain health. In addition, multivitamins also contain antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, which are responsible for boosting the immune system, preventing damage from free radicals, and promoting healthy eyes, skin and hair. Multivitamins also contain calcium and vitamin D, which are important for strong bones and preventing brittle bones due to aging. These vitamins are combined in a multivitamin supplement designed to be taken once per day to help prevent deficiencies or to treat them.

General Nutrition

Although you can get many vitamins and minerals through taking supplements, it is best to obtain vitamins and minerals through healthy eating. According to ChoseMyPlate.gov, most of your food should come from grain sources, with half coming from whole grains. Grains contain dietary fiber which is essential for healthy digestion, low cholesterol and the prevention of type-2 diabetes or heart disease. ChoseMyPlate.gov also suggests that adults consume five or more servings of fruit and vegetables per day, which contain antioxidants needed to lower the risk of heart disease and cancer. Additionally, adults need to consume at least 3 cups of dairy per day for bone health and protein for healthy muscle and tissues.

Regular Exercise

Along with changes in diet and taking dietary supplements, doctors will suggest increasing your physical activity per day. According to MayoClinic.com, regular 30 minute daily exercise can help reduce stress and increase brain chemicals that make you feel relaxed after your workout. Regular exercise can also help prevent depression, reduce the risk of developing heart disease or osteoporosis and boost high-density lipoprotein. If you're looking to lose weight or maintain weight, regular exercise can also help you burn calories.

References

Article reviewed by Jeremy Lloyd Last updated on: Jul 17, 2011

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