In recent years, Fish oil omega 3 has gained much popularity as a supplement – and for good reason. Brimming with benefits, omega-3 fatty acids are needed for optimal health on all levels – whether you want to support heart health, boost brain function or ease joint pain, this is the nutrient for you. But what’s the big deal about these fats? Read on to discover why fish oil started the omega-3 revolution and why it is an essential part of everyday well-being.
What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?
Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that the body needs to function properly. They’re called essential fats because the body can’t produce them on its own. That means we have to get omega-3s through our diet. The omega-3s that are most important for our health are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These two omega-3s are found in fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines.
For people who don’t eat fish regularly, fish oil supplements ensure they’re getting enough omega-3s. Whether taken through food or supplements, omega-3s work hard inside of us to keep us healthy.
Heart Health: A Key Benefit of Omega-3s
One of the best-known benefits of omega-3 fish oil is its effect on heart health. Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, and fish oil and its constituents have been shown to decrease heart disease risk factors.
Reducing Triglycerides and Blood Pressure
Omega-3 fish oil has been shown to help reduce triglycerides, a type of fat that is found in your blood. High levels of this type of fat are associated with heart disease. Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce triglyceride levels by 15–30%. Omega-3 fish oil has also been shown to decrease blood pressure, another risk factor for heart disease.
Protecting Against Heart Attacks and Strokes
Omega-3s also help prevent heart attacks and stroke by helping blood vessels stay open and reducing inflammation. Inflammation is a major cause of several chronic diseases, including heart disease. By reducing inflammation, omega-3s can help protect the heart from developing damage that can lead to disease over time.
The Brain Benefits of Omega-3s
It’s the heart that benefits, omega-3s are also important for brain health. DHA, one of the main omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, is a major structural component in the brain. In fact, about 60% of your brain is made up of fat — and much of that fat is DHA.
Supporting Cognitive Health and Memory
As we age, cognitive abilities including memory and thinking skills decline. Omega-3s help keep ageing brains sharp and alert. Some research suggests omega-3s could protect against diseases like Alzheimer’s by reducing inflammation in the brain and supporting healthy brain cells.
Mental Health and Mood
Omega-3s are also associated with improved mental health. People who consume more omega-3s, either through their diet or supplements, have a lower risk of depression and anxiety. While they’re not a cure-all for these mental health conditions, they can be an effective tool for managing them. Regular consumption of omega-3s has been shown to boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
Joint Health and Inflammation Relief
If joint pain or stiffness is getting in your way, think about trying omega-3 fish oil. The most significant health benefit of omega-3s is their anti-inflammatory effects. This can be especially helpful for people with arthritis and other joint diseases that involve inflammation, causing pain and swelling.
Easing Arthritis Symptoms
Omega-3s have been shown to ease the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease characterised by inflamed joints. Because omega 3 supplements help decrease joint pain and stiffness in many people with rheumatoid arthritis, many researchers believe that they also may help people who suffer from osteoarthritis. Omega-3s reduce production of inflammatory molecules as well as substances that erode cartilage.
Supporting Healthy Joints
Even for those without arthritis, omega-3s are a great addition to any diet if you want to keep your joints nice and healthy. Omega-3s help reduce everyday inflammation in the body and help keep your joints well-lubricated and pain-free, making it easier to stay active and keep normal discomfort at bay.
Skin and Eye Health: More Benefits of Omega-3s
Not only do they help these three vital organs: the heart, brain, and our joints; omega-3s also do wonders for our skin and eyes. They help maintain the overall health of all three of these organs as well.
Hydrated and Healthy Skin
Omega-3s help the skin retain moisture, but they also reduce inflammation. In fact, omega-3 supplements can help clear up inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Many people notice that their skin feels a lot moister and softer after taking omega-3 supplements for just a week or two. The fats in these supplements are natural moisturisers, but they also support the skin’s own protective barrier to prevent damage and keep it looking younger.
Protecting Eye Health
Omega-3s, and in particular DHA, are important for maintaining eye health. DHA is a structural component of the retina of the eye, which sends visual messages to the brain. Consuming enough omega-3s can help protect against problems like dry eye syndrome and age-related macular degeneration, which can cause vision impairment or blindness.
Omega-3s for Pregnancy and Early Development
Pregnant women need to make sure they get enough omega-3s for both themselves and their babies. During pregnancy, omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA, support the baby’s developing brain and eyes. Omega-3 intake has been linked with a lower risk of premature birth and better outcomes for mother and baby.
How to Add Omega-3s to Your Diet
Now that we know how good omega-3s are for us, let’s look at how to make sure you’re getting enough of them. The richest and best source of omega-3s is fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel and sardines. If you don’t eat fatty fish regularly, taking a fish oil supplement could help ensure you get your daily dose of omega-3s.
Look for a brand that contains both EPA and DHA — the two most important forms of omega-3s — in one product. Again, check with your doctor to see if a fish oil supplement is right for you.
Conclusion
The omega-3 revolution isn’t just hype. It’s backed by real science, and the benefits can be seen from your head to your toes. Omega-3 fish oil can help you maintain a healthy heart, support brain function, soothe achy joints, enhance skin and eye health + more. So whether you prefer to get your omega-3s through a plate of salmon or in the form of a supplement — making this essential fat a part of your daily routine is pretty much a no-brainer if you want to look + feel amazing!
