Fish oil is gaining ground as a popular supplement for people to take. Known as a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, fatty fish provide two of the three types of omega-3s: DHA and EPA. The third fatty acid (ALA) comes from nuts and seeds. The human body, on its own, cannot produce these fatty acids, but must take them in from the food that's consumed.
Another way to get some of these oils is through taking fish oil supplements. These fatty acids may affect everything from mental health to cardiac health. Here are 7+ ways your body benefits from fish oil.
1. Post-partum depression. Taking in the omega-3 acids through your diet appears to help those who are suffering from post-partum depression, according to Medical News Today.
2. Memory. The Men's Journal shares that taking the oil for six months may help increase working memory in those who 18 to 25 years of age.
3. Schizophrenia. Healthline reports that taking in fish oil reduces the symptoms of those suffering from schizophrenia and bipolar disorders.
4. ADHD. If someone struggles with ADHD, Medical News Today say that consuming eight to 16 grams of EPA and DHA daily may help with the associated behavioral problems.
5. Blood pressure. Those who suffer from high blood pressure should consider taking in the omega-3 acids through supplements or diet, according to the Mayo Clinic.
6. Cholesterol. Although omega-3s do not reduce cholesterol directly, Healthline reports that they will increase levels of HDL, the good cholesterol. HDL is responsible for removing the bad cholesterol from your arteries.
7. Triglycerides. According to Healthline, fish oils will help lower triglycerides.
8. Heart health. If heart attacks and strokes are a possibility, Medical News Today recommends considering omega-3 fatty acid sources. To get the benefit, you need to take these in through your food, not through supplements. You should try to eat fish two times a week.
9. Joint pain. Research appears to indicate that fish oil can help with joint pain due to rheumatoid arthritis, says the Mayo Clinic.
The best way to get the benefit of omega-3 acids is to take them in from the food you eat. If you choose to do supplements, be careful not to get too much; that can be just as harmful as not having enough.