All About Fish Oil
We here at Agape Nutrition have set out to demystify yet another supplement: fish oil! We’ll give you the ins and outs of this fishy dietary addition, including what it is, what it’s good for, and where to get it!
Note: Please consult your primary care provider before adding any new supplements to your diet, as they may have adverse side effects in conjunction with your current medication(s). Your health plan should be tailored to your medical history, allergies, and dietary needs/goals.
What is Fish Oil?
According to Healthline, “Fish oil is the fat or oil that’s extracted from fish tissue. It usually comes from oily fish such as herring, tuna, anchovies, and mackerel.” It can be produced from other fish livers as well. Unfortunately, this does mean that fish oil is NOT vegan friendly, but it could be beneficial to those without such dietary needs/restrictions.
The key component of fish oil that provides health benefits is omega-3 fatty acids, which according to the Mayo Clinic, are essential for bodily functions “from muscle activity to cell growth”.
How is Fish Oil Good for Your Health?
Omega-3 acids are needed to maintain good overall health, so taking fish oil or consuming fish itself can be highly beneficial for your body.
Fish oil has been shown to lower high blood pressure. It works most effectively in those with moderate to severe blood pressure levels.
Omega-3’s are essential to brain health, so fish oil may be linked to the improvement of certain mental health conditions thought to be caused by a lack of these acids in the brain. This can include depression and symptoms of cognitive decline like Alzheimer’s.
Fish oil also has anti-inflammatory effects and has been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Though fish oil will not cure you of your arthritis, according to the Mayo Clinic, it may “reduce the need for anti-inflammatory medications”.
This fishy supplement may also decrease your risk for eye diseases, also caused by an omega-3 deficiency.
Fish oil has plenty of other health benefits, but these are the major ones. Clearly, fish oil can aid numerous afflictions of the body and mind.
Where Can You Get Fish Oil?
Fish oil is a relatively accessible supplement. It can be purchased in your local grocery store or at a general merchandise retailer. Fish oil is also available here at Agape Nutrition! Check out our options here and here!
Fish oil can be an easy way to boost your health. Talk to your doctor today and see if the supplement is right for you. You can also contact us here at Agape Nutrition to ask about any of our other products!