The Health Benefits
of Fish Oil Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids
Research has revealed
the importance of fish oil omega-3 essential fatty
acids (EPA/DHA). Numerous studies have indicated fish
oils play an important role for many aspects of health,
including:
CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
Studies suggest that fish oil promotes
healthy lipid and triglyceride metabolism, blood flow,
vascular dilation and tone, platelet function, endothelial
function, and erythrocyte membrane composition. Research
also suggests the potential for fish oil to contribute
to healthy homocysteine metabolism. Furthermore, fish
oil may help to protect the cardiovascular system
from the effects of occasional stress. In a recent
meta-analysis of 11 trials involving over 15,000 subjects,
fish oil was associated with providing overall cardiovascular
benefit.*
JOINT FUNCTION
Fish oil acts in part by maintaining
healthy prostaglandin, cytokine and leukotriene production,
supporting connective tissue and cartilage integrity.
It also plays a role in moderating neutrophil activity,
supporting joint comfort. Numerous small double blind
trials indicate that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish
oil promote joint motility and joint comfort. Another
double blind, placebo–controlled, prospective
study revealed that fish oil modulates immune mediator
activity as well as provides support for joint flexibility.*
COGNITIVE/EMOTIONAL HEALTH
(ADULTS)
Omega-3 fatty acids are important components
of neuronal cell membranes and are essential to cognitive
function. By supporting vascular health, fish oils
promote oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain.
Studies suggest that healthy red blood cell membrane
omega-3 fatty acid concentration is associated with
emotional well-being. Both epidemiological and double
blind placebo-controlled trials indicate that fish
oil supports positive mood. Furthermore, dietary intake
of omega-3 fatty acids in adults has been associated
with maintaining healthy EPA/DHA serum levels as well
as a healthy EPA to arachidonic acid ratio, providing
potential support for mental function.*
COGNITIVE/VISUAL DEVELOPMENT
(CHILDREN)
Fish oil promotes healthy mental function
and maturation of the central nervous system, including
support for cell health and neurotransmission. Essential
fatty acids are also vital constituents of the retina,
helping to support healthy visual function. EPA and
DHA consumption by breast fed infants and children
born to mothers who supplement with fish oils has
demonstrated support for visual acuity and cognitive
development. A longitudinal study suggests that infants
born to mothers with higher DHA status demonstrated
healthy cognitive capacity at 12 and 18 months. A
randomized double blind study suggested that 4 year
olds born to mothers who had taken fish oil had healthy
cognitive function. Another study suggested that fish
oil supplementation may enhance healthy night vision
in children. Several studies have also revealed a
relationship between dietary omega-3 fatty acids,
healthy brain function and sleep patterns.*
RESPIRATORY FUNCTION
Fish oil has demonstrated the potential
to support bronchial smooth muscle function by moderating
leukotriene and interleukin production. Double blind
randomized studies indicate that fish oil supplementation
may promote healthy respiratory function in children
and adults. Another randomized controlled trial involving
10 elite athletes suggests that fish oil supplementation
encourages healthy post-exercise pulmonary function.*
IMMUNE RESPONSE
Essential fatty acids appear to exert
a beneficial effect on the immune response by maintaining
healthy cytokine activity at the level of gene expression.*
GASTROINTESTINAL HEALTH
Fish oil supplementation has been associated
with a soothing effect for the gastrointestinal (GI)
tract. In a double blind, placebo-controlled crossover
trial, subjects experienced positive support for GI
comfort. A separate 6 month trial revealed that fish
oil supplementation maintained healthy leukotriene
production and immune cell activity in the colon.*
SKIN HEALTH
Fish oils promote vascular health, supporting
oxygen and nutrient delivery to the skin. Studies
have shown that omega-3 fatty acids protect keratinocytes
and fibroblasts from free radicals and immune mediators
generated by sun exposure, helping to soothe the skin.
Additionally, they help promote elasticity and hydration
for smoother looking skin.*
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For educational purposes only. Consult
your physician for any health problems.
*These statements have not been evaluated
by the Food & Drug Administration. This product
is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent
any disease.
