When the words oils and fats are mentioned, health-conscious individuals tend to run for cover. What they fail to realize is that there are good fats and bad fats. Completely avoiding the intake of oils and fats would actually be detrimental – rather than beneficial – to their health.
The Truth about Fish Oil
Essential fatty acids must always be part of our daily diet – without them, we take one step closer to our deaths. Essential fatty acids are divided into two families: omega-6 EFAs and omega-3 EFAs.
Although there are only very slight differences to distinguish the two groups of essential fatty acids from each other, studies have revealed that too much intake of omega-6 EFAs can lead to inflammation, blood clotting and tumor growth. The good news, however, is that the opposite is true for omega-3 EFAs. Omega-6 EFAs can be found in vegetable oils while omega-3 EFAs can be found in fish oils among other foods.
Omega-6 vs. Omega-3
Physicians and scientists agree that the cause behind increasing cases of heart disease, hypertension or high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, premature aging and certain kinds of cancer is none other than an imbalanced intake of omega-3 and omega-6 EFAs.
As mentioned earlier, omega-6 EFAs can be found in vegetable oils. This includes, but is not limited to, corn oil and soy oil, both of which contain high amounts of linoleic acid. Omega-3 EFAs can be found in marine plankton and walnut and flaxseed oils. It should be significant to note that fatty fish and fish oils contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), fatty acids that are known to provide many benefits to the human body. In the early 1970’s, a study of Greenland Eskimos revealed that one of the major reasons why they rarely suffer from heart disease is because of their high-fat diet (mainly composed of fish).
The two essential fatty acids, EPA and DHA, are also helpful in preventing atherosclerosis, heart attacks, depression and various forms of cancer. Fish oil supplements have also proven useful in treating illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, Raynaud’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Making the Heart Healthier
The heart is inarguably one of the most important parts of our body and it is essential that we keep our hearts healthy in order to live a long and enjoyable life. And one way of doing that is eating food that contains fish oil or taking fish oil supplements.
In Athens, Greece a study was done to determine if there was a direct relationship between a high fish diet and inflammation of blood vessels. The results revealed that those who ate more fish had a lower level of C-reactive protein and interleukin-6, factors that are commonly used to measure the likelihood of blood vessel inflammation.
Another benefit of fish oil supplements is the lowering of total cholesterol levels. This has been directly documented by the author of this report in his own experience. More and more doctors are beginning to recommend the use of Omega-3 supplements as a stand-alone procedure or in partnership with prescription medications to effectively reduce the total cholesterol level.
Fish to Become Thin
In Perth, Australia, a study revealed that fish consumption can fight hypertension and obesity. Researchers of the UWA (University of Western Australia) have discovered that a weight-loss diet which includes a regular amount of fish consumption can be quite effective in reducing blood pressure and improving glucose tolerance.
Fish Oil to Combat Asthma
Millions of people worldwide suffer from respiratory problems like asthma. These folks should be pleased to learn that research has revealed the benefits of fish oil for asthma sufferers. Statistics show that approximately 20 to 25% of children today suffer one form of asthma or another. And evidence reveals a regular diet of food with high linoleic acid content as the reason behind it.
Researchers at the University of Wyoming conducted an experiment in which a number of children were given a high-fish diet while others continued with their regular diet. Results revealed that the participants who ate more fish were less prone to asthma attacks and were able to breathe more easily.
Consult Your Nutritionist Now
Nothing is good when consumed or used excessively but complete avoidance of a particular food type is equally harmful as well. Ask your nutritionist or doctor for the right amount of fish intake for you.
Disclaimer
While the benefits of fish oil supplements are many and are well documented, this report should in no way be construed as a diagnosis of, or means to cure, any illness or physical condition. It is extremely important, as noted above, that you consult a nutritionist or health care professional before starting any new food supplement. Let it be noted here that the author of this article makes no claims to the benefits of fish oil other than his own personal experience.
Bobby Parrish publishes a blog, Bluff City Press, at http://bluffcitypress.com/blogHe has published several articles on health and fitness, religion, politics and marketing.
