The Verdict on Fish Oil: What the Research Says

The research is clear: The Omega-3 fatty acids found in many fish offer a host of health benefits, from reducing inflammation and joint pain to protecting your brain and heart. It’s no wonder doctors recommend including fish in your diet. 

But many people aren’t big seafood fans. And even those of us who love to gulp oysters or savor a salmon fillet often have a hard time getting enough Omega-3, especially since our bodies can’t make the essential nutrient on their own. That’s why dietary supplements of fish oil are so important. 

Yet, here’s where the science gets a little sketchy. For all the benefits of Omega-3, some research has found that a daily supplement of fish oil makes no difference at all, in some cases. And a recent study even suggests that some people who take fish oil supplements might actually increase their risk of stroke and other heart problems.

So, what can we make of the mixed reviews? For starters, let’s take a look at why fish oil supplements are so popular in the first place.

The Case for Fish Oil

Fish oil is chock full of Omega-3 fatty acids called eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). There’s a large body of scientific evidence that shows how EPA and DHA support a wide range of vital body functions including cellular growth, muscle activity, cognitive function and blood flow.

Recent studies have even found that fish oil reduces the incidence of dementia and age-related decline by 20% and that the Omega-3 in fish oil reduces aggressive behavior by 30%.

There’s research showing that fish oil reduces pain and swelling in people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. That it strengthens bones and joints to minimize the risk of osteoporosis. 

Studies have shown that fish oil protects against cardiovascular disease by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. That it enhances production of serotonin and dopamine to boost your mood, nurture vitality and even prevent depression. 

Science also has found that fish oil protects eye health and improves memory as people age. And that it supports fetal development during pregnancy and helps children with attention disorders such as ADHD.

More benefits of Omega-3 fish oil

Concerns Over Fish Oil

While EPA and DHA fatty acids naturally occur in many kinds of fish such as mackerel, herring and caviar, some fish are better choices for your diet than others. For example, tuna and certain kinds of mackerel are high in mercury while many other fish may have a buildup of PCBs and other harmful chemicals that can damage your brain and nervous system or even cause cancer.

Likewise, not all fish oil supplements are created equal. Many over-the-counter supplements lack the purity and potency needed to produce the positive health outcomes linked to Omega-3 fatty acids. And although Omega-3 supplements are unlikely to cause any severe health problems, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, it’s wise to choose only the highest-quality fish oil just to be safe.

See how not all fish oil is created equal

Introducing Omax3® Fish Oil

Unlike other fish oil supplements, Omax3® is sourced from wild-caught anchovies and sardines, which are two of the very best sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, the valuable acids are collected through a state-of-the-art, supercritical CO2 extraction process that captures highly-concentrated EPA and DHA while removing unhealthy saturated fats and other toxins. 

The pharmaceutical strength soft gels that come individually blister-packed for safety and freshness offer a high EPA ratio to get the best results for joint, brain and heart health. Omax3® Pro-Strength Fish Oil contains 3,000 milligrams of Omega-3 in each serving, while Omax3® Ultra-Pure Fish Oil contains 1,500 milligrams of Omega-3 per serving. Both forms are free of GMOs, gluten and soy.

While getting too little Omega-3 in your diet or taking the wrong fish oil supplement can have a negative impact on your health, high-quality fish oil may be just the right way for you to add enough EPA and DHA to your diet. Ask your doctor if Omax3® may be just what you need for healthy aging and vitality at any stage of life.

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