The Many Benefits of Fish Oil: Improving Memory, Weight, and Heart Health

Fish oil has become a popular topic of conversation when discussing health and wellness. While many people are aware of its benefits on digestion, it’s important to note that fish oil has various other advantages that contribute to the improvement of memory, weight, and heart health. This article will delve into some of the many benefits of fish oil, and provide reasons as to why it should be a part of your daily diet.

What is Fish Oil?

Fish oil is a fatty acid that is found in the fish that we consume. Historically, fish oil was only consumed through the flesh of the fish itself. However, with advancements in technology, fish oil supplements are now widely accessible in supermarkets and health food stores. The omega-3 fatty acids present in fish oil are responsible for many of the health benefits associated with it, which will be discussed further in this article.

Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Problems

Fish oil supplements are an excellent way to control high blood pressure and lower levels of triglycerides in the body. Omega-3s have been shown to make blood vessels more elastic and relaxed, which allows for easier blood flow throughout the body. Studies have shown the positive effects of fish oil on cardiovascular health, making it an excellent addition to any diet.

Protects Your Skin

Fish oil has also been known to reduce acne, protect from sunburn, and reduce skin flaking. One study found that both omega-6 and omega-3 are showing “promise as safe adjunctive treatments for many skin disorders,” due to the anti-inflammatory characteristics of fish oil.

Reduces Symptoms of Arthritis

Fish oil works in a two-pronged approach when it comes to reducing symptoms of arthritis. It’s been known to reduce cellular inflammation in addition to protecting joints from pain by inhibiting pain-causing chemicals in the body. One study found that patients who supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids for three to four months experienced a reduction in joint pain intensity, stiffness, and pain killers consumption.

Slows Signs of Aging

One of the benefits of having longer telomeres is aging gracefully. Fish oil has been shown to be linked to longer telomeres, which affects the physical aging process, in addition to other signs of aging such as heart disease and cell degradation.

Prevents Depression

Omega-3s, specifically EPA and DHA, are found in fish oil and can help reduce the risks of depression and mood disorders. EPA has been found to be the more effective of the two in reducing these risks, while DHA has also shown potential in lowering the risk of suicide.

Helps Reduce Abdominal Fat

Fish oil supplements have not been found to aid in weight loss, but one research review found that when combined with healthy lifestyle changes, including exercise and a healthy diet, fish oil could reduce waist circumference. This means that fish oil can help eliminate abdominal fat when combined with healthy changes, making it an excellent addition to any workout or diet plan.

Improves Memory

A five-year study found that consumption of seafood, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, was associated with a slower decline in semantic memory and perceptual speed in 915 participants. While it’s impossible to stop memory loss entirely, fish oil has been shown to slow down the process over time.

Reduces Risk of Breast Cancer

Many research studies have shown that intake of fish oil can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer by up to 14%, when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. This benefit of fish oil is among the most controversial, as studies are still being conducted to determine the full extent of its potential.

Preserves Muscle Mass

One study conducted on cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy found that fish oil helped preserve their weight and muscle mass. Although it’s unclear whether fish oil supplements can preserve muscle mass for the general population, these findings provide hope that it may combat malnutrition.

Reduces Health Effects of Pollution

Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to shield the body from the damaging cardiac effects associated with exposure to air pollution, especially ultra-fine particulate matter. A study conducted on 29 healthy adults concluded that “omega-3 fatty acid supplements offer protection against the adverse cardiac and lipid effects associated with air pollution exposure.”

Helps Maintain Bone Density

NASA scientists have discovered that NFκB, a specific type of omega-3 fatty acid, can inhibit the activation of factors that lead to bone breakdown in patients with osteoporosis. Although this is important for astronauts experiencing weightlessness in space, this benefit is also significant for anyone looking to maintain their bone density.

Final Thoughts

Fish oil provides a multitude of benefits, including improved heart health, memory, and weight loss, in addition to reducing the risks of depression, arthritis, and breast cancer. As a safe and easily accessible supplement to the diet, the benefits of fish oil are numerous and make it an excellent addition to any health regimen.

More on the Benefits of Fish Oil

If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of fish oil or find a high-quality fish oil supplement, check out Infuel Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplement, and start seeing the benefits of fish oil for yourself.