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Fish oil is a well-known and widely used supplement for the health of the whole family. But it affects our bodies in many different ways that we often don't realize.
Here's a different perspective on fish oil, which is much more than just a source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and vitamin A for the mind and the immune system.
Benefits of taking fish oil
Doctors recommend taking fish oil for people suffering from multiple sclerosis, because it supports brain function and helps the functions of the nervous system. Unfortunately, the supplement can't affect the course of the disease, but it limits its impact on patients' lives.
For prostate cancer prevention, a diet with foods and supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids supports the body. There isn't conclusive data on its long-term effect, but it's believed to have a beneficial effect for those at high risk of the disease.
For the risk of cardiovascular disease, fish oil helps the body reduce the likelihood of a heart attack. Specifically, omega-3 fatty acids regulate triglyceride levels, cholesterol, and high blood pressure. According to a 2013 study, people who took fish oil for more than 1 month showed improvement in stress tests, and their heart examinations showed better results.
Fish oil helps regulate blood sugar in people with diabetes. An 8-week experiment with a small group of patients showed that, with an intake of 8 grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day, the risk of high blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes decreased by 22%.
The supplement helps prevent bleeding gums and nosebleeds. Although there's evidence of this beneficial effect in adult patients, it's recommended to have a doctor's check-up before deciding on the dose of fish oil to take.
In people suffering from low blood pressure, taking 3 grams of fish oil per day reduces the likelihood of sudden changes in blood pressure. The effect is the same in patients with high blood pressure, who need to keep it within normal limits. The supplement combines successfully with blood-pressure-lowering medications, but a doctor's advice is recommended.
Adverse effects
One of the best-known adverse effects of taking fish oil is reflux. The feeling of stomach discomfort can be prevented by choosing a supplement with a purified taste. If the smell or taste of fish oil bothers you, you can take it with a spoonful of honey or a cherry tomato to sweeten it after a meal. You can also split the dose into several smaller portions throughout the day.
Hemorrhagic stroke is a condition characterized by bleeding in the brain, usually caused by the rupture of weakened blood vessels. Some animal studies have found that high intake of omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the blood's ability to clot and increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. Other studies don't link the condition to fish oil intake, but it's important to consult a doctor.
Choose your supplement carefully, because some of them contain high amounts of vitamin A, which is toxic in large quantities. It can cause dizziness, nausea, joint pain, and skin irritation. In the long term, it damages the liver.
There's conflicting opinion regarding the effect of omega-3 fatty acids on sleep. According to some studies, fish oil improves sleep quality in children. Other doctors claim that exceeding the dose can cause insomnia.
Our recommendation is to stick to the recommended dose, based on age, and only after a doctor's examination.
