Fish oil is a dietary supplement that contains DHA and EPA, both Omega 3 fatty acids. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that Western diets are historically lower in these nutrients than in countries like Japan, for instance, where heart disease is much less prevalent. Omega 3s are believed to improve a number of medical issues including:
Coronary heart disease – Marla Ahlgrimm reports that there is strong evidence backing the claim that Omega 3s can help lower a person’s risk of sudden heart failure. According to the Mayo Clinic, insufficient levels of EPA and DHA are linked to coronary heart disease.
Rheumatoid arthritis – Though more research is still needed to confirm the benefit of Omega 3s where RA is concerned, Marla Ahlgrimm points out that several studies have linked fish oil to reduced joint tenderness. Fish oil appears to be an effective contribution to the relief of RA when taken for at least three months.
Abnormal heart rhythms – According to Marla Ahlgrimm, there is promising evidence that supplementing a healthy diet with Omega 3s may work to lower the risk of abnormal heart rhythm in younger adults.
Allergies, cancer, depression, aggression, high cholesterol, antisocial personality disorder, menopause, anxiety, asthma, sickle cell disease – Limited research involving fish oil have offered hope that Omega 3s may assist in the treatment of these disorders but more studies are needed to prove a concrete link, says Marla Ahlgrimm.
Those who do not want to take supplements may benefit from eating fish at least once a week. Wild caught salmon is an especially health-conscious choice as it contains plenty of Omega 3 fatty acids and is an excellent source of potassium, pantothenic acid, and choline.
