Fish Oil Supplements – Health Benefits and Side Effects
In addition to its cardiovascular benefits, fish oil is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. It also helps in reducing blood pressure and improving liver function. Moreover, it may improve fetal brain development. However, there are a few cautions to be kept in mind, especially if you’re taking low doses.
Low Doses Of Fish Oil Can Cause Side Effects
Fish oil supplements have a variety of side effects, and you should only use them at recommended doses. You should monitor your body’s reactions to the supplement, and if you have any side effects, you should consult your healthcare provider. Some of the side effects of fish oil supplements include headaches and acid reflux. You may also experience fishy burps or bad breath.
Although fish oil may be beneficial for people suffering from IBD, the supplement should be taken with caution. It can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular problems, and if you have a history of heart disease, you should consult a doctor before taking it. Some studies have found that fish oil supplements may lower symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. However, other studies have shown no effect. The recommended dosage depends on your age and health. You should avoid taking high doses if you are already taking medications.
Fish Oil Reduces Blood Pressure
Fish oil supplements are known for their beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. They can lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation. The National Institutes of Health recommend 1.1 to 1.6 g of fish oil daily for healthy heart function. You can find this nutrient in seafood such as salmon, trout, herring, and oysters. They can also lower triglyceride levels. This in turn can lower blood pressure and decrease your risk of heart attack.
Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension. In a study published in the American Journal of Hypertension, people who took fish oil supplements had lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Young adults who consumed more omega-3 fatty acids had lower blood pressure than those who did not consume this type of fat.
Fish Oil Improves Liver Function
There are several reasons why people take fish oil supplements. First, they help protect the liver from oxidative damage. Second, they contain n-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. Both of these fatty acids are major regulators of several molecular pathways. These fatty acids also help reduce inflammation. In addition, they help maintain liver function by reducing the mature SREBP-1c protein, which is known to activate genes involved in fatty acid synthesis.
Moreover, studies have shown that fish oil supplements can improve liver function in people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This type of liver disease is characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver in the absence of alcohol. It is one of the most common types of liver disease, with prevalence ranging from fifteen to thirty-nine percent in Western countries.
Fish Oil Boosts Fetal Brain Development
Pregnancy can be a great time to start taking fish oil supplements to boost fetal brain development. Several studies have shown that consuming plenty of fish can improve the development of the baby’s brain. These supplements are especially helpful for the fetus, since they contain omega-3 fatty acids. Pregnancy-related deficiencies in these fatty acids are linked to poor brain development. Taking fish oil supplements during pregnancy can help prevent these deficiency symptoms and can help the baby’s brain develop more fully.
Pregnancy-related benefits of fish oil supplements include the development of the baby’s nervous system, vision, and motor functions. It also promotes healthy cell membranes, which are essential for healthy brain development and function.