You probably know someone taking fish oil for good health; maybe you're on a fish oil supplementation regimen yourself. The fact is, fish oil -- the oil obtained from certain fatty fish -- provides healthy fats called "essential fatty acids," which are believed to provide numerous health benefits. When it comes to fish oil and immune function, however, the picture is more complicated.
Health Benefits
Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, the type of fat that your body needs to remain healthy and well-functioning. According to nutritionists Alan Titchenal, Ph.D., C.N.S., and Joannie Dobbs, Ph.D., C.N.S., of the University of Hawaii at Manoa, omega-3 fatty acids are an integral component of the brain and may help to keep memory and learning skills sharp. In addition, fish oil seems to help protect against heart disease and stroke, lower high triglycerides, stabilize mood and alleviate dry eyes, among many other beneficial capabilities, says the National Institutes of Health.
Immune System Effects
Fish oil helps to fight inflammation in the body to boost your immune system and protect against certain diseases, says the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center. While this is a positive benefit of fish oil consumption, too much fish oil can cause immunity problems. According to the National Institutes of Health, excessive fish oil intake can actually suppress immune system functioning. In other words, there seems to be a moderate dose of fish oil that improves immune function. Yet, too little or too much fish oil worsens your immunity.
Dosage
The National Institutes of Health states that low doses of fish oil -- up to 3 g per day -- is likely safe for most people. But, taking more than 3 g of fish oil per day may cause adverse effects. Of course, before taking fish oil, consult your physician for advice regarding the right dosage for you. Appropriate dosages may vary depending on the particular medical conditions, if any, you are attempting to treat via fish oil.
Sources
Fish oil is found in fatty fish like tuna, salmon, mackerel, herring, lake trout and cod. But many Americans do not consume enough fish to obtain adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids via diet alone. Alternatively, you can consume fish oil as a supplement. Fish oil supplements are available in liquid and capsule forms. Obtain your doctor's approval before trying a fish oil supplement.
References
- University of Hawaii at Manoa Department of Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences; Fish is Good for the Brain, Study Shows; Alan Titchenal, Ph.D., C.N.S., et al.; July 2003
- National Institutes of Health MedlinePlus; Fish Oil; February 2011
- University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center; Most Wanted Supplements: Are They Cancer Killers or Frauds? What You Need to Know
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