A plethora of research demonstrates that, not only are fish oil benefits numerous, some of them are really very amazing! It seems sometimes like new research is being published everyday, as researchers and physicians learn even more about how and why it is so effective. The omega-3 fatty acids that are found in fish oil are “good fats” that are vital to well-being. They are crucial for our health but our bodies can’t make them - you must get them through diet. Here are some proven fish oil health benefits that should persuade you to consume more oily, wild fish and start taking a highly refined fish oil supplement if you’re not already!

Promotes Heart Health & Prevents Heart Attack and Strokes

Fish oil continues to grow in scientific reputation as an important promoter of heart health. According to statements from the American Heart Association, fish oil is effective in minimizing the occurrence of heart disease and helps to reduce risk factors such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Clinical studies of heart attack survivors have found that daily consumption of fish oil capsules drastically reduce the risk of death, additional heart attacks and stroke. Omega-3s also lower blood triglycerides, help correct irregular heart rhythms, and can help avoid and treat atherosclerosis by preventing the development of plaque and blood clots, which typically clog arteries.

Lessens Pain & Inflammation

Omega-3s have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. Research trials show that diets high in omega-3s (and low in the pro-inflammatory omega-6s) may help people with inflammation-based conditions — anything that ends in -itis!. Omega-3s have also been used to successfully treat neck, back and menstrual pain, allowing study patients to reduce their intake of NSAID drugs.

Promotes Healthy Joints and Minimizes Symptoms of Arthritis

The omega-3s in fish oil reduce joint tenderness, pain intensity and morning stiffness produced by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, several test tube studies have found that omega-3s actually lessen the action of enzymes that break down cartilage. At least 13 published clinical trials have shown that fish oil supplements are very beneficial at treating rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil has helped those with RA to reduce their need for pain medicine.

Increases Mental Acuity & Long-Term Cognitive Function

Did you know that omega-3s, particularly DHA, are incredibly concentrated in our brains? They’re important for optimal cognitive (mental memory and performance) and behavioral function, as well as proper growth and development. Studies demonstrate that omega-3s might aid in maintaining proper cognitive functioning and possibly in avoiding or holding off the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We also now know that it’s very important that pregnant women get enough DHA, because it’s required by the growing fetus — during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, the brain of the fetus grows at a rate of a quarter million new neurons every minute! Children are also helped by omega-3 consumption, as numerous studies show that omega-3s improve learning, concentration, reading and vocabulary skills. Numerous studies have also shown benefits in treating ADD.

Contributes to Positive Mood & Emotional Well-being

In nations where fish is a significant part of the diet, national rates of depression are lower. So, it shouldn’t be surprising that studies have shown that fish oil capsules can mitigate the symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and psychosis. Many studies have found that those who took omega-3s in addition to prescription anti-depressants had a larger improvement in symptoms than those that only took antidepressants, with patients experiencing a stabilizing effect and fewer mood swings. Research has also demonstrated that, when those in prison were given omega-3s, there was a significant reduction in hostile behavior. Omega-3s also seem to reduce the risk of postpartum depression.

Promotes Eye Health

Studies show that people with a higher omega-3 consumption appear to have a lower risk of Dry-Eye Syndrome and developing macular degeneration. Preliminary research also shows that omega-3 supplements aid in alleviating dry eye symptoms, may help to slow macular degeneration for those already developing it and improves eye health in general.

Pregnancy, Infant Brain/Vision Development & Reduced Incidence of Childhood Disorders

DHA makes up 15-20% of the cerebral cortex and approximately 30-60% of the retina, so it is absolutely necessary for normal growth and development of the fetus and baby. Prenatal DHA availability also seems to reduce likelihood of childhood allergies and have an effect on motor skill quality, cognitive development and behavior/hyperactivity later in the child’s life. Omega-3s also help to lower the chances of low birth weight and premature birth.

Promotes Increased Fat Metabolism and Weight Loss

According to the National Institute of Health, omega-3s trigger “I’m full” messages to the brain and aid in inhibiting hunger signals. Research has also demonstrated that fish oil improves the efficacy of exercise in reducing weight. Study participants who were alloted fish oil with their diet showed greater decreases in weight as contrasted with people who did not consume fish oil. Exercise combined with fish oil had a positive effect on the body shape and body composition of the patients.

Reduces Chance of Prostate, Breast & Colorectal Cancer

Though more research in this area is desperately needed, we now know that the omega 3’s that appear in fish oil help in the prevention and treatment of testicular, prostate, breast and ovarian cancers. Preliminary trials suggest that taking fish oil everyday can help inhibit the progression of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease and may possibly have the ability to induce apoptosis (cellular death) of cancer cells.

Much more could be said about the many fish oil benefits. And, as the science community and health professionals continue to research omega-3s, you can be certain that fish oil will keep producing headlines as the ideal source of these essential fatty acids that are so essential to our bodies. Even if you’re currently in good physical condition, a high quality fish oil supplement is the fastest, safest way to achieve and maintain optimal health!

Brittany M. Wallace is a health and nutrition expert who has been studying the benefits of omega-3 for nearly 10 years. You can learn all about the fish oil benefits by visiting her site.