Fish oil? Isn’t that something your Grandmother used to recommend for a cold? While that may be the case, today fish oil is somewhat more refined than it was in years of old, and still possesses many health benefits that go way beyond treating a common cold.
In fact, if stretched, most personal trainers and fitness consultants will tell you that if they had to choose just one supplement for you to take over all the rest, it would be fish oil. That’s because there are so few supplements on the market that offer quite as many benefits as fish oil does.
But we’re not just talking about the cod liver oil your Gran used to give you on a silver teaspoon; the supplements we recommend today are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), that have been revered for their substantial health benefits over recent years. You can even get your fish oil in capsule form, if you can’t handle the taste. Here’s why you need it in your life right now:
Keep your cholesterol healthy – Studies have shown that even by adding just 3-6 grams of fish oil a day to your meals, you can help promote a healthy blood cholesterol, as well as low levels of triacylglycerol concentrations in the body.
Triacylglycerol concentrations refer to the amount of fat in your blood ratio and this is particularly important if you want to maintain a healthy heart and reduce your body fat levels. Start using fish oil supplements today in conjunction with eating a healthy diet high in fibre and rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Your body will thank you, and your GP will as well.
Healthy bones – As we grow older our bones begin to thin and, as with the case with most things in life, sorry to say this effects women worse than men in the form of osteoporosis.
Studies have shown a direct link between a continued intake of healthy fats (polyunsaturated fat) and healthy bones, especially in menopausal women. That’s not taking away the importance of the role of calcium in your diet, however, but after your daily dairy, fish oil will be your new best friend.
Be happier – Really? Well, that may be a bold claim, but the truth is that there is enough research to support the fact that diets filled with processed foods and lacking in nutrition can lead to mood imbalance and even depression.
The stress that most of us go through every day tends to build up and up and can cause anxiety, tension and insomnia. If this sounds like you, then fish oil might not be your magic cure, but incorporating it into your diet will have long term, long lasting benefits on your health.
Fish oil intake boosts our levels of serotonin (the “feel good” hormone) in our bodies. As most people replicate this feeling after satisfying a craving for a carbohydrate-heavy meal, not only will fish oil make you feel less stressed, but it can help you lose weight by curbing your carb addiction. Fish oil will also naturally help release serotonin in the body, which can help manage stress and overall health in the long run.
