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BENEFITS OF FISH OIL


Some experts believe that taking fish oil (in any form) can help regulate Cholesterol in the body. This is because of the high levels of Omega 3 , specifically the effects of the EPA and DHA constituents on Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor alpha (PPARα), whose benefits include not only reduction of cholesterol, but also anti-imflammatory properties and positive effects on body composition. However, it should be noted that the preferred source of Omega 3 should be from the fish's body, not the liver. The liver of fish and many animals, such as seals and whales, contains, besides Omega-3, the active form of Vitamin A , such as in Cod Liver Oil . At high levels, this form of the vitamin can be dangerous. This proved fatal to early explorers to the land of the Inuit . They were given raw liver by the natives, which contained a toxic overdose of Vitamin A for the white explorers; however, the same amount was harmless to the Inuit, who had no other source of Vitamin A except animal livers.

The American Heart Association recommends the consumption of 1 G of fish oil daily, preferably by eating fish, for patients with Coronary Heart Disease . {Link without Title}

The US , Secondary Cardiovascular Disease prevention and High Blood Pressure . It then lists 27 other conditions for which there is B or C grade evidence. It also lists possible safety concerns: "Intake of 3 grams per day or greater of omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding, although there is little evidence of significant bleeding risk at lower doses (245-247). Very large intakes of fish oil/omega-3 fatty acids ("Eskimo" amounts) may increase the risk of hemorrhagic (bleeding) stroke." (NIH Medline Plus)

According to a study from Louisiana State University in September 2005, fish oil may help protect the brain from cognitive problems associated with Alzheimer's Disease . {Link without Title}

For purchasing fish oil dietary supplements, it is often recommended to seek a label certifying the product to be distilled, pharmaceutical grade, and free of mercury and other toxins.


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