What's fish oil?
No doubt you have come across fish oil at some point in the supermarket, at the pharmacy or in the supplement shop. But what is it and are there benefits?
Fish oil is derived from the tissues of fatty, oily fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, anchovies, sardines and trout. Just like these fish, fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA
Omega-3 fats are important components in the structure of our cells, especially in the brain and eyes. They’re also an energy source for the body and an anti-inflammatory agent.
Findings show omega-3 fatty acids may help to:
Lower blood pressure
Reduce triglycerides
Slow the development of plaque in the arteries
Reduce the chance of abnormal heart rhythm
Reduce the likelihood of heart attack and stroke
Lessen the chance of sudden cardiac death in people with heart disease
Do I need to take it as a supplement?
No, the guidelines for fish intake is 2-3 times per week. It's unclear whether the benefit that fish provides comes only from the Omega 3s EPA and DHA or whether it comes from consuming the whole fish and getting the benefits from the other nutrients it provides. You can also get omega 3s from flax seed oil, walnuts, grass fed beef, and free range eggs. Consuming a fish oil substitute could potentially provide benefit those who don't eat any fish, but it’s not strictly necessary if you’re eating a well-balanced diet.
