Discover The Benefits Of Fish Oil

Did you know the benefits of omega-3 fish oil supplements are numerous? Although the benefits to heart health are the best known, several studies have shown a reduced risk of several kinds of cancer, including breast, colon and prostate cancers.

One study showed that omega-3 fatty acids reduced prostate tumor growth, slowed the progression of the disease and increased the survival rate. The studies concerning breast cancer have been mixed, but high blood levels of DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), a specific omega-3 found only in oily fish are definitely associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer.

A 2009 study showed that supplements containing Eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA, another omega-3 found only in oily fish, helped cancer patients retain their muscle mass. Another showed that DHA and EPA combined helped reduce hair loss in patients undergoing chemotherapy. But, what makes these nutrients so beneficial? The answer has to do with inflammation.

Inflammation is a necessary function of the immune system, but in recent decades doctors have seen it occur in a number of diseases, without any explanation. It seems that the immune system turned against the body.

Researchers have learned that inflammation plays a role in heart disease, cancer and many other diseases, as well. They call it “silent” or chronic inflammation. It doesn’t cause the pain associated with acute inflammation, but it is doing damage, nonetheless.

Inflammation is actually one of the primary causes of cellular aging. It is just as damaging as the free radical. So, taking fishoil is just as important as taking antioxidants every day.

There has been some concern about that an increased bleeding risk could be associated with supplementation, but recent studies indicate that there is no increased bleeding risk at doses of three grams per day. The average person takes only one or two grams per day in supplement form.

The reason for the concern about bleeding is because fish oil is an anti-coagulant. It prevents blood from clotting. That’s a good thing, because it reduces the risk of sudden heart attack or stroke caused by clotting. It’s just that clotting is necessary for people recovering from surgery or an injury.

The only people that should consult a doctor before taking the supplement are those suffering from bleeding disorders. There have been studies concerning people that are taking blood thinners and aspirin, as well as high doses of omega-3s to improve their cardiovascular health. But, there is still caution concerning free bleeders.

Last but not least, the only other caution has to do with the quality of the supplement. If it’s a good supplement, it should be tested for impurities, such as mercury contamination and PCB content. The best manufacturers post a copy of the official analysis on their websites. Now, that’s a fish oil supplement you can buy with confidence.

By: Laurel Cohen

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Laurel Cohen is a strong advocate of natural health in all its forms: skin care, supplementation, and farm fresh foods. She enjoys introducing people to the best natural products she can find and uses herself daily. Visit her site www.omega-3-for-health.com to learn about the omega 3 fish oils Laurel uses daily for optimal health.