Fish oil comes from many types of fish. It is rich in two important omega-3 fatty acids called eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). As the body doesn’t produce many of its omega-3 fatty acids, one has to depend on external sources such as mackerels, salmons etc. Several functions of Omega-3 fatty acids have been demonstrated which include reducing pain and swelling and also preventing the blood from clotting easily. Fish oil supplements are sometimes used for heart health and mental health.
Taking fish oil by mouth decreases the high levels of fats called triglycerides in the blood (hypertriglyceridemia). Taking fish oil supplements by mouth reduces triglyceride levels in people with abnormal cholesterol levels. It also slows down the rate of weight loss in cancer patients although this effect is noticeable at very high doses of fish oil.
Fish oil seems to prevent kidney damage in people taking cyclosporine. Fish oil also seems to improve kidney function in people who recently rejected a transplanted kidney and are taking cyclosporine. Intake of fish oil seems to reduce the risk of the child having nausea and vomiting from an infection of the intestines.
Consuming higher amounts of fish oil from foods has been linked with a lower risk of heart failure and may also reduce the risk of death or hospitalization in people that already have heart failure. Studies have shown that it can slightly lower blood pressure in people with moderate to very high blood pressure. Taking fish oil by mouth might reduce liver fat and improve liver health in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Taking fish oil by mouth, alone or together with the drug naproxen, seems to help improve symptoms of RA and reduce swollen and tender joints.
Many people take fish oil supplements for their health. When it is fresh, Fish oil is a healthy source of omega-3 fatty acids. But like any other oil, fish oil can spoil and become rancid. Rancid oils are harmful to the body and taste unpleasant, so you should not ingest them. Most oils become rancid because of oxidation. Oxidation occurs when a foreign molecule forms a molecular bond with the glycerol molecules of the polyunsaturated fish oil.
These oils are highly prone to oxidation to lipid peroxides and other secondary oxidation products. Oxidized oils may have altered biological activity making them ineffective or harmful. Additionally, animal studies show that oxidized lipid products can cause harm.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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