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Introduction
Omega-3 fatty acids combined with vitamins A and D – the components of naturally extracted fish oil – take care of our bodies through various mechanisms and deliver valuable substances that we cannot produce on our own.
In previous articles we looked at the benefits of fish oil, focusing on support for the nervous system, as well as healthy immunity and reducing anxiety levels. We continue to explore its individual benefits in detail, and in this article we'll look at two more of them.
Supports sharp vision
One of the main “superpowers” of fish oil is caring for normal eye function. The omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins it contains offer varied protection for eye health. How exactly does fish oil “deliver” sharper vision?
1. Supports the development of children's vision
In childhood, the substances a child takes in are fundamental to the development of the body's various systems. Vision continues to develop throughout childhood, and children's bodies need omega-3s, which they cannot synthesize on their own. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) – one of the main components of the oil – is also a key structural component of the eye's retina. In early childhood, while vision is still developing, sufficient amounts of DHA help support proper retinal development.
In addition to supporting visual acuity, fish oil supports brain development and improves concentration in more hyperactive children. Babies who are still breastfed can receive these beneficial substances through the fish oil taken by the mother.
2. Reduces dryness in the eyes
Excessive time in front of a computer screen, seasonal allergies, or hormonal imbalance – these are some of the possible causes of the uncomfortable feeling of dry eyes. Many people turn to so-called “artificial tears” – drops meant to restore lost moisture. Unfortunately, these only provide temporary relief, and the problem needs to be treated from within.
By eating foods rich in omega-3s, as well as taking fish oil, moisture in the eyes can be restored long-term and irritation can be reduced. This is because, when there is inflammation in the eyelids, the eyes dry out relatively quickly, and omega-3 fatty acids actively counteract inflammatory processes.
3. Reduces the risk of developing glaucoma
Glaucoma is a decline in vision quality caused by high eye pressure, which damages the optic nerve. The condition is dangerous, as it can even lead to complete loss of vision. The condition can be prevented through regular intake of fish oil, since it manages to lower elevated intraocular pressure levels - DHA and EPA are able to neutralize the free radicals that can damage optic nerve cells and lead to the development of various diseases such as glaucoma. In addition, the two acids have the property of normalizing blood flow, including that in the optic nerve.
Clinical studies show that, in order for the positive effect to be noticeable, the oil needs to be taken daily for at least 3 months. Of course, it's essential to consult a doctor before taking any action.
Takes care of skin appearance
A study published in the medical journal Marine Drugs notes the cosmetic and therapeutic significance of fish oil and its omega-3 fatty acids for the healthy appearance of the skin. The effects cover various aspects, and here are the main skin problems that could be positively affected by taking fish oil:
1. Dermatitis
Literally translated, “dermatitis” means “inflammation of the skin.” It can take various forms, most often appearing as a non-contagious, itchy rash whose size can vary depending on the cause. There is atopic, seborrheic, neurodermatitis, and other types.
Care for this condition is usually complex, involving creams, oral medications, and supplements. Thanks to their effective anti-inflammatory action, the omega-3 fatty acids, as well as vitamins D and E in fish oil, improve the condition of the skin. The study shows that after taking it for 60 days, dryness and itching were reduced, while hydration increased by 30%.
2. Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a condition characterized by the appearance of darker patches on the skin, resulting from excessive melanin production. The most common causes of hyperpigmentation are hormonal changes, unprotected sun exposure, certain skin injuries, and even aging.
Fortunately, improving this condition is possible. Fish oil can help address it, as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) suppresses melanin production, which in turn reduces the skin's oversensitivity to ultraviolet rays.
3. Photoaging
This type of skin aging is described as “unnatural,” since it's caused by an external irritant rather than natural maturity. As we mentioned in the previous point, long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight can be extremely harmful to the condition of the skin. It leads to the appearance of pigment spots, fine lines, and roughness.
A study by the Experimental Dermatology Journal shows that, in addition to anti-inflammatory action, the omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins in fish oil also provide natural protection. This happens thanks to the additional protection they impose on cell membranes and cell signaling pathways.
4. Skin cancer formations
One of the causes of cancer formation is exposure to UVA and UVB rays. Once they appear, they begin to weaken the immune response of skin cells, leading to even greater vulnerability of the body. Numerous studies have concluded that intake of EPA and DHA from fish oil reduces the activity of cancer cells by up to 80%.
A strong immune system is essential for identifying and eliminating cancer cells before they can develop into malignant growths. By supporting the immune function of the entire body, fish oil can improve the body's natural defense against skin cancer.
Conclusion
We can conclude that taking fish oil carefully supports many different parts of our body. It successfully supports good vision, reduces dryness, and provides protection against possible future eye diseases. For the skin, fish oil helps protect it from harmful sun rays and fights various inflammatory processes. In the next article we'll look at how it supports the cardiovascular system and bone structure.
