Fish oil is the oil from fish. It has received a lot of positive attention in the last few years. With an increasing number of people knowing the difference between good and bad fats, more people are appreciating the many benefits of fish oil. Other than potential benefits for general health, fish oil also has potential anabolic effects.
Fish Oil Benefits?
The many benefits of fish oil generally stem from its high content of long chain omega 3 fatty acids. Two notable mentions include eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are both essential fatty acids that we cannot make. Within the body they are converted to a group of hormones that have many beneficial functions. In essence, EPA and DHA are basically pro-hormones.
Where Does Fish Oil Come From?
Fish oil is the oil extracted from the tissues and belly cavities of certain species of fish considered to be "oily fish". Some species include salmon, sardines, anchovies, trout, and mackerel.
Fish Oil Benefits for General Health?
Other than the above two benefits of fish oil, there are still many other benefits of fish oil that are very well known. First of all, fish oil has been clinically proven to be able to significantly reduce blood triglyceride (fat) levels by 20 to 50%. In fact the FDA has even approved a certain brand of fish oil to be used as a treatment for high triglycerides (NIH, 2011). High triglycerides are known to be a risk factor for heart disease. Therefore, the reduction of such is beneficial for heart health.
Fish oil has also been studied as a treatment for many other diseases, some of which show a great deal of promise. These include high blood pressure, menstrual pain, stroke, osteoporosis, various forms of cancer, asthma, and psychological disorders (NIH, 2011).
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