The benefits and harms of fish oil for the body

Fish oil is one of the most valuable nutritional supplements containing a complex of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. In addition, it contains vitamins D, A, and E, as well as iodine, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium. It is a transparent oily liquid of a yellow hue (from pale to saturated). This fat is extracted from fatty fish species’ liver or subcutaneous fat – the cod family, sharks, and rays.

Note! An extract from the liver can contain many harmful substances since the fish is bred on an industrial scale. Various antiseptic and antibacterial agents are added to the water (so that it does not die from diseases). And when commercially catching fish, it is necessary to consider seawater’s degree of pollution. In addition, such fat can be deposited in the liver and kidneys when consumed in large quantities. That is why the drug should be purchased only from trusted manufacturers who carefully monitor the quality of their product.

But the fat from the pulp of fish does not contain harmful substances, so it is becoming increasingly popular. This supplement is commercially available in the form of capsules or liquids. The liquid has a specific taste, which not everyone likes, but it is faster and better absorbed by the body. The drug in capsules does not have an unpleasant aftertaste but is absorbed more slowly.

Health benefits and harms of fish oil

Such an additive is useful for children and adults as an excellent means of preventing and treating several diseases: from rickets and vitamin deficiency to skin and hair problems.

The substances that make fish oil positively affect metabolic processes in mucous membranes and tissues and remove inflammation in the joints (taking the drug can reduce the need for painkillers for rheumatoid arthritis).

In addition, regular intake of capsules:

• Regulates the growth of bone tissue and helps to strengthen it.
• Promotes the formation of visual pigments (improves vision).
• Strengthens epithelial tissue.
• It improves the absorption of calcium in the intestines, which reduces or eliminates the risk of developing bone pathologies (osteoporosis, rickets).
• Participates in the formation of arachidonic acid, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes.
• Reduces the amount of cholesterol in the blood.
• Improves the quality of blood.

It is considered an excellent prophylactic against Alzheimer’s disease – it has been scientifically proven that Omega-3 improves memory in older people, slows down the process of reducing brain activity, and thereby prevents dementia (age-related dementia).

Why is fish oil harmful?

Fish oil is harmful in several ways – people should not take it with reduced blood clotting, as well as those who are taking anticoagulants. It is unsuitable for those suffering from chronic kidney disease, acute pancreatitis, or cholecystitis, a very serious metabolic disorder. Allergy to fish is another contraindication.

In case of an overdose, intestinal upset, belching, or nausea may occur.

The nutritional supplement is equally useful for both sexes and ages. But because some health problems are more typical for men than women (and vice versa), we will focus on more typical problems for both.

The benefits of fish oil capsules for men

The benefit of fish oil for men is that sufficient consumption of it significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. The drug strengthens the heart muscle, increases the level of “good” cholesterol in the blood, prevents the formation of arterial plaques on the walls of blood vessels, softens those that have already appeared, normalizes blood pressure, and prevents arrhythmia.

For overweight men, along with exercise and a healthy diet, it is recommended to drink capsules. Omega-3 reduces the risks associated with obesity (diabetes, deterioration of the heart and liver, joint pain, etc.) and improves lipid metabolism.

For bodybuilders, capsules are necessary – they must be included in a sports diet. In addition, they help to get rid of cramps in the calves.

The benefits of fish oil capsules for women

Fish oil is especially beneficial for pregnant women – of course, after consulting a doctor. The substances contained in the capsules benefit the fetus’s development, preventing rickets, problems with coordination, vision, and allergies. The intake of fish oil also has a positive effect on the well-being of the expectant mother.

In addition, polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamins:

• improve the general condition of the skin;
• help get rid of blackheads and acne;
• strengthen the walls of blood vessels and capillaries, thereby preventing the appearance of rosacea (spider veins);
• strengthen hair follicles;
• accelerate hair growth, and they become thick and shiny;
• improve the condition of the nails.

The benefits of fish oil capsules for women are undeniable because they also help with depression, apathy, decreased vitality and increased concentration.

Advice! Fish oil from capsules can be used as a cosmetic oil for the face and hands – both in pure form and by adding to the cream.

The benefits of fish oil capsules for children

All experts recommend giving fish oil to children – it is extremely useful for a growing organism because:

• allows the normal formation of the skeleton and teeth;
• positively affects the condition of the skin, hair, and nails;
• reduces the risk of allergies and asthma by about 25%;
• Helps with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).

But the MOST important thing is an effective means of preventing and treating rickets. This supplement is vital for children who live in regions with low levels of insolation (little sun).

How to take fish oil

The number of capsules you take depends on the amount of omega-3s in them. On average, the daily norm for an adult is 1-2 capsules three times a day (they are eaten with meals). Children over 14 years old – 1 capsule per day. For pregnant women, newborns, and children under 14 years of age, the dosage is selected individually – usually, the manufacturer indicates it in the instructions. In addition, before giving the drug to children, you should consult a good doctor. In this case, you will be sure that there is no overdose.