The best sources of fish oil are cold water fatty fish. Fish oil can be concentrated in capsules and it is a rich source of omega-3 fats. Omega-3 fatty acid deficiency is linked to over 96,000 deaths in America every year. Well, the figures are worrying, right?
But the most important thing to remember is, these deaths are preventable through dietary adjustments, especially the inclusion of fish oil in the diet.
In this article, I will discuss some of the scientifically proven health benefits of fish oil, being the richest natural source of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Arthritis
According to an 18-month study that evaluated how fish oil fared against borage oil in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, it was discovered that there was a significant reduction in disease activity and both therapies worked the same.
In another study, omega-3 supplements were found to be as effective as the Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAIDs), in reducing the arthritic pain and it is, therefore, a safer alternative to the drugs.
- Alzheimer’s Disease
Fish oil and Alzheimer’s disease have been studied for a very long time, and it has been shown to slow down brain atrophy in older people as well as slow down cognitive decline. It is, therefore, effective in fending off the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
If you take fish oil regularly, especially as an adult, the risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s declines significantly and there is less brain shrinkage compared to the adults who do not take fish oil.
- Cancer
According to scientific studies, fish oil has been proven to prevent and kill various forms of cancer, which include prostate, breast and colon cancers. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have inhibiting effects on the growth of cancer cells.
In some cases, fish oil has been proven to make conventional cancer drugs more effective, and it can also be used as a stand-alone therapy in some cases.
According to a study conducted in India, the use of a conventional drug in combination with fish oil for patients with colorectal cancer increased the survival rate.
- Cardiovascular Disease
Fish oil has anti-inflammatory properties which have been proven to prevent and even reverse a wide range of cardiovascular diseases. It has been associated with improved chances of survival for victims of heart attack and there is a significant improvement in the overall functioning of the heart, six months after the occurrence of a heart attack.
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
According to medics, low levels of omega-3 fatty acids may be a contributing factor to ADHD, as well as other mental health problems which include depression and anxiety.
In one study, children with ADHD were treated with conventional drugs for over six months, but they showed no improvement in behavior or ability in academic learning. However, the same children were given omega-3 and omega-6 supplements randomly, while others got a placebo. There was a significant improvement for the group using omega supplements as they were found to be less restless and aggressive, as well as improved academic performance.
