| The Many Health Benefits of Pure Fish Oil Supplementation |
What are The Benefits of Fish Oil Supplements?
The two main types of Omega 3 in fish oil are DHA and EPA .
Fish Oil Benefits: Reduced risk of arrhythmias and sudden death by heart
attack; improved concentration and focus through improved neurotransmitter
activity; lowers triglycerides and helps balance cholesterol; better joint function
through reduced pain; improves skin, nail, and hair health; supports immune
system function; reduces the risk of breast and prostate cancer; improves visual
color recognition and visual clarity; improves digestive health and reduces
inflammation; fish oil enhances insulin secretion from beta cells in the pancreas,
regulating blood sugar levels; plays a protective role in diabetic neuropathy.
The two main types of Omega 3 in fish oil are DHA and EPA .
Fish Oil Benefits: Reduced risk of arrhythmias and sudden death by heart
attack; improved concentration and focus through improved neurotransmitter
activity; lowers triglycerides and helps balance cholesterol; better joint function
through reduced pain; improves skin, nail, and hair health; supports immune
system function; reduces the risk of breast and prostate cancer; improves visual
color recognition and visual clarity; improves digestive health and reduces
inflammation; fish oil enhances insulin secretion from beta cells in the pancreas,
regulating blood sugar levels; plays a protective role in diabetic neuropathy.
Learning More About Fish Oil
In recent years there has been a great deal of controversy about nutritional supplementation
as a both a curing and preventative treatment. But the one nutritional supplement that seems
to have risen above the others is pure fish oil.
Our goal at purchaseremedies.com is support you in your quest to lead a naturally healthy
lifestyle supported by the most beneficial premium natural remedies and supplements.
Even if you choose not to purchase your fish oil here we would encourage you to continue to
gather additional information and ultimately when you are ready include fish oil into your
supplemental preventative treatment regime.
The two primary Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil are DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and
EPA, with DHA furnishing the majority of health benefits.
As more and more research is done the list of benefits seems to be growing by the day.
Some of the potential benefits of fish oil supplementation are cardiovascular protection,
improved brain function, cholesterol reduction, joint and arthritis relief, immune system
support, improved digestion, skin health, and reduced risk of diabetes. It is unheard of that
one product can offer such an impressive list of health benefits. I would venture to say that if
fish oil supplementation was an expensive prescription medication that every other
advertisement would be touting its benefits.
One of the major concerns and regarding fish oil supplements is purity. Put differently fish oil
may contain potentially harmful impurities such as heavy metals including mercury, dioxins,
and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBS). This is not surprising due to the areas of the ocean
that are severely polluted.
For this reason paying special attention to labeling and purification is particularly important
when purchasing these products.
Cold Water Fish Tend to Be The Best Source for Fish Oil
By and large, fat fish that come from cold ocean waters are better sources of DHA. Salmon,
herring, mackerel are some of these kinds of fish.
One more fish that is high in DHA is the Hoki. Hoki is a native of southern coastal regions of
New Zealand. This fish is not often seen on the menu is the United States due to its
residence half way around the world but research seems to point to Hoki as one of the best
and purest sources of DHA.
Extensive Research from The U of M on The Benefits of Fish Oil – Conditions and Benefits
Clinical studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may be helpful in treating a variety of health
conditions. The evidence is strongest for heart disease and problems that contribute to heart
disease, but the range of possible uses for omega-3 fatty acids include:
High cholesterol
Those who follow a Mediterranean-style diet tend to have higher high density lipoprotein
(HDL or "good" )cholesterol levels. Similar to those who follow a Mediterranean diet, Inuit
Eskimos, who consume high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish, also tend to
have increased HDL cholesterol and decreased triglycerides (fatty material that circulates in
the blood). In addition, fish oil supplements containing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and
docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have been reported in several large clinical studies to reduce
low density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Finally, walnuts
(which are rich in alpha linolenic acid or ALA) have been reported to lower total cholesterol
and triglycerides in individuals with high cholesterol levels.
High blood pressure
Several clinical studies suggest that diets or supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids lower
blood pressure significantly in individuals with hypertension. An analysis of 17 clinical
studies using fish oil supplements found that supplementation with 3 or more grams of fish
oil daily can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure in individuals with untreated
hypertension.
Heart disease
One of the best ways to help prevent and treat heart disease is to eat a low-fat diet and to
replace foods rich in saturated and trans-fat with those that are rich in monounsaturated and
polyunsaturated fats (including omega-3 fatty acids). Clinical evidence suggests that EPA
and DHA found in fish oil help reduce risk factors for heart disease including high
cholesterol and high blood pressure. There is also strong evidence that these substances
can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by inhibiting the development of plaque and blood
clots, each of which tends to clog arteries. Clinical studies of heart attack survivors have
found that daily omega-3 fatty acid supplements dramatically reduce the risk of death,
subsequent heart attacks, and stroke. Similarly, people who eat an ALA-rich diet are less
likely to suffer a fatal heart attack.
Strong evidence from population-based clinical studies suggests that omega-3 fatty acid
intake (primarily from fish) helps protect against stroke caused by plaque buildup and blood
clots in the arteries that lead to the brain. In fact, eating at least 2 servings of fish per week
can reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 50%. However, people who eat more than 3
grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day (equivalent to 3 servings of fish per day) may be at an
increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke, a potentially fatal type of stroke in which an artery in
the brain leaks or ruptures.
Diabetes
Individuals with diabetes tend to have high triglyceride and low HDL levels. Omega-3 fatty
acids from fish oil can help lower triglycerides and apoproteins (markers of diabetes), and
raise HDL, so people with diabetes may benefit from eating foods or taking supplements
that contain DHA and EPA. ALA (from flaxseed, for example) may not have the same benefit
as DHA and EPA because some people with diabetes lack the ability to efficiently convert
ALA to a form of omega-3 fatty acids that the body can use readily. There have been slight
increases reported in fasting blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes while taking
fish oil supplements.
Weight loss
Many individuals who are overweight suffer from poor blood sugar control, diabetes, and
high cholesterol. Clinical studies suggest that overweight people who follow a weight loss
program that includes exercise tend to achieve better control over their blood sugar and
cholesterol levels when fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon, mackerel, and
herring) is a staple in their low-fat diet.
Arthritis
Most clinical studies investigating the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements for
inflammatory joint conditions have focused almost entirely on rheumatoid arthritis. Several
articles reviewing the research in this area conclude that omega-3 fatty acid supplements
reduce tenderness in joints, decrease morning stiffness, and allow for a reduction in the
amount of medication needed for people with rheumatoid arthritis.
In addition, laboratory studies suggest that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (and low in the
inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids) may benefit people with other inflammatory disorders,
such as osteoarthritis. In fact, several test tube studies of cartilage-containing cells have
found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation and reduce the activity of enzymes
that destroy cartilage. Similarly, New Zealand green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus),
another potential source of omega-3 fatty acids, has been reported to reduce joint stiffness
and pain, increase grip strength, and enhance walking pace in a small group of people with
osteoarthritis. In some participants, symptoms worsened before they improved.
An analysis was conducted of 17 randomized, controlled clinical trials assessing the pain
relieving effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
or joint pain caused by inflammatory bowel disease (IBS) and painful menstruation
(dysmenorrhea). The results suggest that omega-3 fatty acids are effective treatment, along
with conventional therapies such as anti-inflammatory drugs, for joint pain associated with
rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and dysmenorrhea.
Osteoporosis
Clinical studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA help increase levels of
calcium in the body, deposit calcium in the bones, and improve bone strength. In addition,
studies also suggest that people who are deficient in certain essential fatty acids
(particularly EPA and gamma-linolenic acid [GLA], an omega-6 fatty acid) are more likely to
suffer from bone loss than those with normal levels of these fatty acids. In a study of women
over 65 with osteoporosis, those given EPA and GLA supplements experienced significantly
less bone loss over 3 years than those who were given a placebo. Many of these women
also experienced an increase in bone density.
Depression
People who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids or do not maintain a healthy balance of
omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in their diet may be at an increased risk for depression. The
omega-3 fatty acids are important components of nerve cell membranes. They help nerve
cells communicate with each other, which is an essential step in maintaining good mental
health. In particular, DHA is involved in a variety of nerve cell processes.
Levels of omega-3 fatty acids were found to be measurably low and the ratio of omega-6 to
omega-3 fatty acids were particularly high in a clinical study of patients hospitalized for
depression. In a clinical study of individuals with depression, those who ate a healthy diet
consisting of fatty fish 2 - 3 times per week for 5 years experienced a significant reduction in
feelings of depression and hostility.
Bipolar disorder
In a clinical study of 30 people with bipolar disorder, those who were treated with EPA and
DHA (in combination with their usual mood stabilizing medications) for 4 months
experienced fewer mood swings and recurrence of either depression or mania than those
who received placebo. Another 4-month long clinical study treating individuals with bipolar
depression and rapid cycling bipolar disorder did not find evidence of efficacy for the use of
in EPA in these patients.
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have low levels of certain
essential fatty acids (including EPA and DHA) in their bodies. In a clinical study of nearly 100
boys, those with lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids demonstrated more learning and
behavioral problems (such as temper tantrums and sleep disturbances) than boys with
normal omega-3 fatty acid levels. In animal studies, low levels of omega-3 fatty acids have
been shown to lower the concentration of certain brain chemicals (such as dopamine and
serotonin) related to attention and motivation. Clinical studies that examine the ability of
omega-3 supplements to improve symptoms of ADHD are still needed. At this point in time,
eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids is a reasonable approach for someone with ADHD.
A clinical study used omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplementation in 117 children with
ADHD. They study found significant improvements in reading, spelling, and behavior in the
children over the 3 months of therapy. Another clinical study found that omega-3 fatty acid
supplementation helped to decrease physical aggression in school children with ADHD.
More studies, including comparisons with drug therapies (such as stimulants), should be
performed.
Eating disorders
Clinical studies suggest that men and women with anorexia nervosa have lower than
optimal levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (including ALA and GLA). To prevent the
complications associated with essential fatty acid deficiencies, some experts recommend
that treatment programs for anorexia nervosa include PUFA-rich foods such as fish and
organ meats (which include omega-6 fatty acids).
Burns
Essential fatty acids have been used to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing in
burn victims. Animal research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids help promote a healthy
balance of proteins in the body -- protein balance is important for recovery after sustaining a
burn. Further research is necessary to determine whether omega-3s benefit people in the
same way.
Skin disorders
In one clinical study, 13 people with a particular sensitivity to the sun known as photo
dermatitis showed significantly less sensitivity to UV rays after taking fish oil supplements.
Still, research indicates that topical sunscreens are much better at protecting the skin from
damaging effects of the sun than omega-3 fatty acids. In another study of 40 people with
psoriasis, those who were treated with medications and EPA supplements did better than
those treated with the medications alone. In addition, many clinicians believe that flaxseed
(which contains omega-3 fatty acids) is helpful for treating acne.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
When added to medication, such as sulfasalazine (a standard medication for IBD), omega-3
fatty acids may reduce symptoms of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis -- the 2 types of
IBD. More studies to investigate this preliminary finding are under way. In animals, it appears
that ALA works better at decreasing bowel inflammation than EPA and DHA. Plus, fish oil
supplements can cause side effects that are similar to symptoms of IBD (such as flatulence,
belching, bloating, and diarrhea).
Asthma
Clinical research suggests that omega-3 fatty acid supplements (in the form of perilla seed
oil, which is rich in ALA) may decrease inflammation and improve lung function in adults with
asthma. Omega-6 fatty acids have the opposite effect: they tend to increase inflammation
and worsen respiratory function. In a small, well-designed clinical study of 29 children with
asthma, those who took fish oil supplements rich in EPA and DHA for 10 months had
improvement in their symptoms compared to children who took a placebo pill.
Macular Degeneration
A questionnaire administered to more than 3,000 people over the age of 49 found that those
who consumed more fish in their diet were less likely to have macular degeneration (a
serious age-related eye condition that can progress to blindness) than those who
consumed less fish. Similarly, a clinical study comparing 350 people with macular
degeneration to 500 without the eye disease found that those with a healthy dietary balance
of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and higher intake of fish in their diets were less likely to
have this particular eye disorder. Another larger clinical study confirms that EPA and DHA
from fish, 4 or more times per week, may reduce the risk of developing macular
degeneration. Notably, however, this same study suggests that ALA may actually increase
the risk of this eye condition.
Menstrual pain
In a clinical study of nearly 200 Danish women, those with the highest dietary intake of
omega-3 fatty acids had the mildest symptoms, such as hot flashes and increased
sweating, during menstruation.
Colon cancer
Consuming significant amounts of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids appears to reduce the
risk of colorectal cancer. For example, Eskimos, who tend to follow a high-fat diet but eat
significant amounts of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, have a low rate of colorectal cancer.
Animal studies and laboratory studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids prevent
worsening of colon cancer while omega-6 fatty acids promote the growth of colon tumors.
Daily consumption of EPA and DHA also appeared to slow or even reverse the progression
of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease.
Clinical studies have reported that low levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the body are a marker
for an increased risk of colon cancer.
However, in an animal study of rats with metastatic colon cancer (in other words, cancer that
has spread to other parts of the body such as the liver), omega-3 fatty acids actually
promoted the growth of cancer cells in the liver. Until more information is available, it is best
for people with advanced stages of colorectal cancer to avoid omega-3 fatty acid
supplements and diets rich in this substance.
Breast cancer
Although not all experts agree, women who regularly consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty
acids over many years may be less likely to develop breast cancer. In addition, the risk of
dying from breast cancer may be significantly less for those who eat large quantities of
omega-3 from fish and brown kelp seaweed (common in Japan). This is particularly true
among women who substitute fish for meat. The balance between omega-3 and omega-6
fatty acids appears to play an important role in the development and growth of breast cancer.
Further research is still needed to understand the effect that omega-3 fatty acids may have
on the prevention or treatment of breast cancer. For example, researchers speculate that
omega-3 fatty acids in combination with other nutrients (namely, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-
carotene, selenium, and coenzyme Q10) may prove to be of particular value for preventing
and treating breast cancer.
Prostate cancer
Laboratory and animal studies indicate that omega-3 fatty acids (specifically, DHA and EPA)
may inhibit the growth of prostate cancer. Similarly, population based clinical studies of
groups of men suggest that a low-fat diet with the addition of omega-3 fatty acids from fish or
fish oil help prevent the development of prostate cancer. Like breast cancer, the balance of
omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids appears to be particularly important for reducing the risk of
this condition. ALA, however, may not offer the same benefits as EPA and DHA. In fact, one
recent clinical study evaluating 67 men with prostate cancer found that they had higher levels
of ALA compared to men without prostate cancer. More research in this area is needed.
Other: Although further research is needed, preliminary evidence suggests that omega-3
fatty acids may also prove helpful in protecting against certain infections and treating a
variety of conditions, including autism, ulcers, migraine headaches, preterm labor,
emphysema, psoriasis, glaucoma, Lyme disease, systemic lupus erythmatosus (lupus),
irregular heart beats (arrhythmias), multiple sclerosis, and panic attacks. Omega-3 fatty acid
supplementation may also help to reduce stress and the effects it has on the body.
In recent years there has been a great deal of controversy about nutritional supplementation
as a both a curing and preventative treatment. But the one nutritional supplement that seems
to have risen above the others is pure fish oil.
Our goal at purchaseremedies.com is support you in your quest to lead a naturally healthy
lifestyle supported by the most beneficial premium natural remedies and supplements.
Even if you choose not to purchase your fish oil here we would encourage you to continue to
gather additional information and ultimately when you are ready include fish oil into your
supplemental preventative treatment regime.
The two primary Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil are DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and
EPA, with DHA furnishing the majority of health benefits.
As more and more research is done the list of benefits seems to be growing by the day.
Some of the potential benefits of fish oil supplementation are cardiovascular protection,
improved brain function, cholesterol reduction, joint and arthritis relief, immune system
support, improved digestion, skin health, and reduced risk of diabetes. It is unheard of that
one product can offer such an impressive list of health benefits. I would venture to say that if
fish oil supplementation was an expensive prescription medication that every other
advertisement would be touting its benefits.
One of the major concerns and regarding fish oil supplements is purity. Put differently fish oil
may contain potentially harmful impurities such as heavy metals including mercury, dioxins,
and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBS). This is not surprising due to the areas of the ocean
that are severely polluted.
For this reason paying special attention to labeling and purification is particularly important
when purchasing these products.
Cold Water Fish Tend to Be The Best Source for Fish Oil
By and large, fat fish that come from cold ocean waters are better sources of DHA. Salmon,
herring, mackerel are some of these kinds of fish.
One more fish that is high in DHA is the Hoki. Hoki is a native of southern coastal regions of
New Zealand. This fish is not often seen on the menu is the United States due to its
residence half way around the world but research seems to point to Hoki as one of the best
and purest sources of DHA.
Extensive Research from The U of M on The Benefits of Fish Oil – Conditions and Benefits
Clinical studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may be helpful in treating a variety of health
conditions. The evidence is strongest for heart disease and problems that contribute to heart
disease, but the range of possible uses for omega-3 fatty acids include:
High cholesterol
Those who follow a Mediterranean-style diet tend to have higher high density lipoprotein
(HDL or "good" )cholesterol levels. Similar to those who follow a Mediterranean diet, Inuit
Eskimos, who consume high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish, also tend to
have increased HDL cholesterol and decreased triglycerides (fatty material that circulates in
the blood). In addition, fish oil supplements containing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and
docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have been reported in several large clinical studies to reduce
low density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Finally, walnuts
(which are rich in alpha linolenic acid or ALA) have been reported to lower total cholesterol
and triglycerides in individuals with high cholesterol levels.
High blood pressure
Several clinical studies suggest that diets or supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids lower
blood pressure significantly in individuals with hypertension. An analysis of 17 clinical
studies using fish oil supplements found that supplementation with 3 or more grams of fish
oil daily can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure in individuals with untreated
hypertension.
Heart disease
One of the best ways to help prevent and treat heart disease is to eat a low-fat diet and to
replace foods rich in saturated and trans-fat with those that are rich in monounsaturated and
polyunsaturated fats (including omega-3 fatty acids). Clinical evidence suggests that EPA
and DHA found in fish oil help reduce risk factors for heart disease including high
cholesterol and high blood pressure. There is also strong evidence that these substances
can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by inhibiting the development of plaque and blood
clots, each of which tends to clog arteries. Clinical studies of heart attack survivors have
found that daily omega-3 fatty acid supplements dramatically reduce the risk of death,
subsequent heart attacks, and stroke. Similarly, people who eat an ALA-rich diet are less
likely to suffer a fatal heart attack.
Strong evidence from population-based clinical studies suggests that omega-3 fatty acid
intake (primarily from fish) helps protect against stroke caused by plaque buildup and blood
clots in the arteries that lead to the brain. In fact, eating at least 2 servings of fish per week
can reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 50%. However, people who eat more than 3
grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day (equivalent to 3 servings of fish per day) may be at an
increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke, a potentially fatal type of stroke in which an artery in
the brain leaks or ruptures.
Diabetes
Individuals with diabetes tend to have high triglyceride and low HDL levels. Omega-3 fatty
acids from fish oil can help lower triglycerides and apoproteins (markers of diabetes), and
raise HDL, so people with diabetes may benefit from eating foods or taking supplements
that contain DHA and EPA. ALA (from flaxseed, for example) may not have the same benefit
as DHA and EPA because some people with diabetes lack the ability to efficiently convert
ALA to a form of omega-3 fatty acids that the body can use readily. There have been slight
increases reported in fasting blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes while taking
fish oil supplements.
Weight loss
Many individuals who are overweight suffer from poor blood sugar control, diabetes, and
high cholesterol. Clinical studies suggest that overweight people who follow a weight loss
program that includes exercise tend to achieve better control over their blood sugar and
cholesterol levels when fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon, mackerel, and
herring) is a staple in their low-fat diet.
Arthritis
Most clinical studies investigating the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements for
inflammatory joint conditions have focused almost entirely on rheumatoid arthritis. Several
articles reviewing the research in this area conclude that omega-3 fatty acid supplements
reduce tenderness in joints, decrease morning stiffness, and allow for a reduction in the
amount of medication needed for people with rheumatoid arthritis.
In addition, laboratory studies suggest that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (and low in the
inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids) may benefit people with other inflammatory disorders,
such as osteoarthritis. In fact, several test tube studies of cartilage-containing cells have
found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation and reduce the activity of enzymes
that destroy cartilage. Similarly, New Zealand green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus),
another potential source of omega-3 fatty acids, has been reported to reduce joint stiffness
and pain, increase grip strength, and enhance walking pace in a small group of people with
osteoarthritis. In some participants, symptoms worsened before they improved.
An analysis was conducted of 17 randomized, controlled clinical trials assessing the pain
relieving effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
or joint pain caused by inflammatory bowel disease (IBS) and painful menstruation
(dysmenorrhea). The results suggest that omega-3 fatty acids are effective treatment, along
with conventional therapies such as anti-inflammatory drugs, for joint pain associated with
rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and dysmenorrhea.
Osteoporosis
Clinical studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA help increase levels of
calcium in the body, deposit calcium in the bones, and improve bone strength. In addition,
studies also suggest that people who are deficient in certain essential fatty acids
(particularly EPA and gamma-linolenic acid [GLA], an omega-6 fatty acid) are more likely to
suffer from bone loss than those with normal levels of these fatty acids. In a study of women
over 65 with osteoporosis, those given EPA and GLA supplements experienced significantly
less bone loss over 3 years than those who were given a placebo. Many of these women
also experienced an increase in bone density.
Depression
People who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids or do not maintain a healthy balance of
omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in their diet may be at an increased risk for depression. The
omega-3 fatty acids are important components of nerve cell membranes. They help nerve
cells communicate with each other, which is an essential step in maintaining good mental
health. In particular, DHA is involved in a variety of nerve cell processes.
Levels of omega-3 fatty acids were found to be measurably low and the ratio of omega-6 to
omega-3 fatty acids were particularly high in a clinical study of patients hospitalized for
depression. In a clinical study of individuals with depression, those who ate a healthy diet
consisting of fatty fish 2 - 3 times per week for 5 years experienced a significant reduction in
feelings of depression and hostility.
Bipolar disorder
In a clinical study of 30 people with bipolar disorder, those who were treated with EPA and
DHA (in combination with their usual mood stabilizing medications) for 4 months
experienced fewer mood swings and recurrence of either depression or mania than those
who received placebo. Another 4-month long clinical study treating individuals with bipolar
depression and rapid cycling bipolar disorder did not find evidence of efficacy for the use of
in EPA in these patients.
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have low levels of certain
essential fatty acids (including EPA and DHA) in their bodies. In a clinical study of nearly 100
boys, those with lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids demonstrated more learning and
behavioral problems (such as temper tantrums and sleep disturbances) than boys with
normal omega-3 fatty acid levels. In animal studies, low levels of omega-3 fatty acids have
been shown to lower the concentration of certain brain chemicals (such as dopamine and
serotonin) related to attention and motivation. Clinical studies that examine the ability of
omega-3 supplements to improve symptoms of ADHD are still needed. At this point in time,
eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids is a reasonable approach for someone with ADHD.
A clinical study used omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplementation in 117 children with
ADHD. They study found significant improvements in reading, spelling, and behavior in the
children over the 3 months of therapy. Another clinical study found that omega-3 fatty acid
supplementation helped to decrease physical aggression in school children with ADHD.
More studies, including comparisons with drug therapies (such as stimulants), should be
performed.
Eating disorders
Clinical studies suggest that men and women with anorexia nervosa have lower than
optimal levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (including ALA and GLA). To prevent the
complications associated with essential fatty acid deficiencies, some experts recommend
that treatment programs for anorexia nervosa include PUFA-rich foods such as fish and
organ meats (which include omega-6 fatty acids).
Burns
Essential fatty acids have been used to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing in
burn victims. Animal research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids help promote a healthy
balance of proteins in the body -- protein balance is important for recovery after sustaining a
burn. Further research is necessary to determine whether omega-3s benefit people in the
same way.
Skin disorders
In one clinical study, 13 people with a particular sensitivity to the sun known as photo
dermatitis showed significantly less sensitivity to UV rays after taking fish oil supplements.
Still, research indicates that topical sunscreens are much better at protecting the skin from
damaging effects of the sun than omega-3 fatty acids. In another study of 40 people with
psoriasis, those who were treated with medications and EPA supplements did better than
those treated with the medications alone. In addition, many clinicians believe that flaxseed
(which contains omega-3 fatty acids) is helpful for treating acne.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
When added to medication, such as sulfasalazine (a standard medication for IBD), omega-3
fatty acids may reduce symptoms of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis -- the 2 types of
IBD. More studies to investigate this preliminary finding are under way. In animals, it appears
that ALA works better at decreasing bowel inflammation than EPA and DHA. Plus, fish oil
supplements can cause side effects that are similar to symptoms of IBD (such as flatulence,
belching, bloating, and diarrhea).
Asthma
Clinical research suggests that omega-3 fatty acid supplements (in the form of perilla seed
oil, which is rich in ALA) may decrease inflammation and improve lung function in adults with
asthma. Omega-6 fatty acids have the opposite effect: they tend to increase inflammation
and worsen respiratory function. In a small, well-designed clinical study of 29 children with
asthma, those who took fish oil supplements rich in EPA and DHA for 10 months had
improvement in their symptoms compared to children who took a placebo pill.
Macular Degeneration
A questionnaire administered to more than 3,000 people over the age of 49 found that those
who consumed more fish in their diet were less likely to have macular degeneration (a
serious age-related eye condition that can progress to blindness) than those who
consumed less fish. Similarly, a clinical study comparing 350 people with macular
degeneration to 500 without the eye disease found that those with a healthy dietary balance
of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and higher intake of fish in their diets were less likely to
have this particular eye disorder. Another larger clinical study confirms that EPA and DHA
from fish, 4 or more times per week, may reduce the risk of developing macular
degeneration. Notably, however, this same study suggests that ALA may actually increase
the risk of this eye condition.
Menstrual pain
In a clinical study of nearly 200 Danish women, those with the highest dietary intake of
omega-3 fatty acids had the mildest symptoms, such as hot flashes and increased
sweating, during menstruation.
Colon cancer
Consuming significant amounts of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids appears to reduce the
risk of colorectal cancer. For example, Eskimos, who tend to follow a high-fat diet but eat
significant amounts of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, have a low rate of colorectal cancer.
Animal studies and laboratory studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids prevent
worsening of colon cancer while omega-6 fatty acids promote the growth of colon tumors.
Daily consumption of EPA and DHA also appeared to slow or even reverse the progression
of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease.
Clinical studies have reported that low levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the body are a marker
for an increased risk of colon cancer.
However, in an animal study of rats with metastatic colon cancer (in other words, cancer that
has spread to other parts of the body such as the liver), omega-3 fatty acids actually
promoted the growth of cancer cells in the liver. Until more information is available, it is best
for people with advanced stages of colorectal cancer to avoid omega-3 fatty acid
supplements and diets rich in this substance.
Breast cancer
Although not all experts agree, women who regularly consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty
acids over many years may be less likely to develop breast cancer. In addition, the risk of
dying from breast cancer may be significantly less for those who eat large quantities of
omega-3 from fish and brown kelp seaweed (common in Japan). This is particularly true
among women who substitute fish for meat. The balance between omega-3 and omega-6
fatty acids appears to play an important role in the development and growth of breast cancer.
Further research is still needed to understand the effect that omega-3 fatty acids may have
on the prevention or treatment of breast cancer. For example, researchers speculate that
omega-3 fatty acids in combination with other nutrients (namely, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-
carotene, selenium, and coenzyme Q10) may prove to be of particular value for preventing
and treating breast cancer.
Prostate cancer
Laboratory and animal studies indicate that omega-3 fatty acids (specifically, DHA and EPA)
may inhibit the growth of prostate cancer. Similarly, population based clinical studies of
groups of men suggest that a low-fat diet with the addition of omega-3 fatty acids from fish or
fish oil help prevent the development of prostate cancer. Like breast cancer, the balance of
omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids appears to be particularly important for reducing the risk of
this condition. ALA, however, may not offer the same benefits as EPA and DHA. In fact, one
recent clinical study evaluating 67 men with prostate cancer found that they had higher levels
of ALA compared to men without prostate cancer. More research in this area is needed.
Other: Although further research is needed, preliminary evidence suggests that omega-3
fatty acids may also prove helpful in protecting against certain infections and treating a
variety of conditions, including autism, ulcers, migraine headaches, preterm labor,
emphysema, psoriasis, glaucoma, Lyme disease, systemic lupus erythmatosus (lupus),
irregular heart beats (arrhythmias), multiple sclerosis, and panic attacks. Omega-3 fatty acid
supplementation may also help to reduce stress and the effects it has on the body.
In clinical studies Xtendlife DHA fish
oil was found to be twice as
effective as most other fish oils .
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oil was found to be twice as
effective as most other fish oils .
Click Here to Learn More
Yes, I am ready to learn more about the
benefits of Xtendlife Omega 3/DHA fish
oil, its purity, and many health benefits .
benefits of Xtendlife Omega 3/DHA fish
oil, its purity, and many health benefits .
Yes, I am ready to learn more about the
benefits of Xtendlife Omega 3/DHA fish oil
and its many health benefits.
benefits of Xtendlife Omega 3/DHA fish oil
and its many health benefits.
