Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to human health. Because the body is unable to produce these nutrients, they must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Fish oil, which contains both eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), is beneficial to the heart and brain, and may help prevent and treat a variety of potentially serious health problems.
Heart Health
The National Institutes of Health states that intake of recommended amounts of omega-3 fish oil supplements lowers blood pressure, slows hardening of the arteries, lowers triglycerides and provides protection against heart attack, stroke and abnormal heart rhythm. To protect cardiovascular health, the American Heart Association recommends eating fish two or more times each week or taking a fish oil supplement containing omega-3 fatty acids when dietary sources of the nutrient are inadequate.
Eased Arthritis
The omega-3 in fish oil supplements can improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and other arthritic conditions, such as inflammation, morning stiffness and joint tenderness, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). The benefits to those with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, may be even greater when fish oil is used in combination with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. The UMMC states, however, that while the supplements can improve symptoms, they do not appear to slow progression of the disease. Fish oil may also help with osteoarthritis, improving grip strength and walking pace, and reducing pain and stiffness.
Reduced Cancer Risk
Regular intake of omega-3 fatty acids may suppress the formation and growth of some cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. Protection is greatest against the spread of solid-tumor cancers related to hormone protection, such as breast and prostate cancer, but omega-3s may also inhibit the growth of colon, pancreatic and other cancers. The rates of breast cancer are lower in women who consume regular amounts of omega-3s over many years than in women who don't, according to the UMMC.
Better Skin Health
In addition to general improvement in dry skin, omega-3 fish oil supplements can help reduce the inflammation and other symptoms associated with a variety of skin disorders, including eczema, psoriasis and photo dermatitis, according to the UMMC. Regular intake of omega-3 fatty acids may also speed the healing of wounds and burns.
Less Depression and Bipolar Disorder
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for memory and other cognitive functions, and deficiency may result in behavior changes, mood swings and depression, according to the UMMC. Because of this, fish oil supplements are sometimes recommended for those suffering from depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Omega-3 is also being looked at as a possible treatment for children with ADHD. The Harvard School of Public Health states that high doses of fish oil, typically six to 10 capsules per day, are used to treat depression. Taking the supplement in conjunction with prescription antidepressants may equal a greater improvement in depressive symptoms.
Help During Pregnancy and Infancy
Fish oil supplements are beneficial to infants, both before and after birth. According to the UMMC, infants who do not receive enough omega-3s from their mothers during pregnancy are at increased risk for nerve and vision problems. To support healthy development of the brain and heart, the March of Dimes recommends pregnant and breastfeeding women take in a minimum of 200 milligrams of DHA every day. Supplements may be safer than dietary sources of omega-3s due to the risk of mercury contamination in some fish that are high in essential fatty acids.
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