Heart, Mind, and Joints: The Full-Spectrum Benefits of Omega-3 Fish Oil

Omega-3 fish oil or sometimes referred to as Fish oil omega 3 is a widely popular supplement taken by millions of people worldwide. These special fats are most plentiful in fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines. Eating fish is the best way to get omega-3 fatty acids. That being said, not everyone is a fan of eating fish. For these individuals, supplementation may be necessary to make sure they are getting enough omega-3s in their diet. Omega-3s are incredibly important for the body, especially when it comes to keeping your heart, mind and joints healthy.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: What Are They?

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of healthy fat that are vital for our bodies to function. The two primary ones present in fish oil are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). We cannot make these fats on our own, so we need to get them from food or supplements such as fish oil. Omega-3’s help with numerous functions throughout the body, including supporting the heart, brain and joints.

Omega-3 Fish Oil for a Healthy Heart

One of the main reasons people take omega 3 supplements is to benefit their heart health. Heart disease is currently the world’s most common cause of death, and omega 3s have been found to reduce many of the risk factors that commonly lead to it.

Lowering Triglycerides and Blood Pressure

Triglycerides, for example, are a type of fat that can be found in the blood. Having high levels of these fats puts you at an increased risk of developing heart disease. Omega 3 fish oil has been proven to reduce triglyceride levels in the blood, hence keeping your heart healthy. On top of this, omega 3s can help reduce high blood pressure as well; an added advantage since high blood pressure directly stresses out your heart—something which can remain sustainable for a long period will ultimately develop issues—in order to lower differences in pressure located within your body.

Keeping the Heart Rhythm Steady

Omega-3s also help to prevent dangerous changes in heart rhythm. Arrhythmias (ah-RITH-me-ahs) are abnormal heart rhythms that can cause heart attacks and even sudden death. Omega-3s help keep the heart beating regularly and also help prevent heart attacks and strokes by helping to prevent blood clots from forming.

Omega-3s and the Brain

Omega-3 fish oil does amazing things for the brain as well! DHA, one of the main omega-3 fats in fish oil, is a major building block of the brain. It helps to grow our brains and keeps it functioning at optimal levels.

Supporting Mental Health

Studies have found that omega-3s can help improve mood and overall well-being. Some research even suggests that those who consume more omega-3s via fatty fish or fish oil supplements may decrease their likelihood of developing depression or anxiety. Of course, not to say that omega-3 fats alone should be considered a treatment option for any mental health condition but rather as part of a holistic approach in maintaining and supporting mental health.

Cognitive Health and Memory

As we get older, cognitive function often begins to decline, including our memory, thinking and decision-making abilities. Omega-3s may slow age-related cognitive decline and keep the brain sharper for longer. There is even some observational research suggesting these healthy fats can help prevent debilitating brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Easing Joint Pain and Supporting Mobility

For people who deal with joint pain, such as those with arthritis, omega-3 fish oil can be of great assistance. Omega-3s’ anti-inflammatory properties are particularly helpful in alleviating pain and stiffness due to joint problems.

Fighting Inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection. However, when it becomes chronic, it tends to cause constant pain and discomfort coupled with swelling in the joints. Omega 3s help reduce inflammation by curbing the production of inflammatory molecules in one’s body. This will certainly benefit those suffering from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis for they have sore and swollen joints.

Better Mobility and Less Stiffness

Omega-3s can reduce inflammation and keep joints healthy, so people with arthritis may feel less stiff when they incorporate these essential fats into their diet. In fact, supplementing with omega-3s is a common treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.

Other Benefits of Omega-3 Fish Oil

While heart, brain, and joint health are the main areas where omega-3 fish oil shines, there are a few other benefits worth mentioning.

Healthier Skin

Since omega-3s help to reduce inflammation, they can improve skin health and hydration as well. They help to strengthen the skin’s barrier function, protecting it from irritants and keeping it moisturized. Omega-3 supplements have also been shown to decrease symptoms of certain skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis by lowering inflammation levels in the body.

Eye Health

DHA, one of the main omega-3s in fish oil, is a major structural component of the retina of the eye. For this reason, omega-3s are necessary for maintaining good vision. People who don’t get enough omega-3s may be at a higher risk for eye diseases like dry eye syndrome and even age-related macular degeneration, which can cause blindness.

Supporting Pregnancy and Early Development

Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly important for pregnant women and their babies. DHA plays an extremely important role in the development of a baby’s brain and eyes. Pregnant women who get enough omega-3s may also reduce their risk of preterm labour and other pregnancy complications.

How to Get Enough Omega-3s

Now that we know the benefits of omega-3 fish oil, how do you ensure you’re getting enough of these beneficial fats? The easiest way to obtain omega-3s is from your diet. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3s. However, many people don’t eat adequate amounts of fish. In such cases, fish oil supplements are a handy and effective alternative. Fish oil supplements are available in liquid or capsule form and can be easily found in stores or online.

Conclusion

Omega-3 fish oil is a healthy fat that helps support cardiovascular health, cognitive function and joint health among an array of other benefits. Ingesting fish oil is one of the most simple and effective ways to reduce bodily inflammation, boost cognitive performance, and keep your body feeling young and healthy. If you aren’t regularly consuming fresh seafood packed with these essential fats or supplementing with a high-quality omega-3 fish oil supplement, your life could likely be much improved by doing so (although it’s always best to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement).