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Effect of Supplementation of Fish Oil on Fatty Acids

Published : Sep 05, 2019 4 mins read Updated On : Mar 06, 2024

Introduction:

Omega-3 fatty acids are key for normal overall health, development and growth. Lack of dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids and too much intake of omega-6 fatty acids is believed to be a significant contributing factor to many diseases. Since the human body cannot make omega-3 fatty acids, we have to get them from our diet.

Why do people take omega-3 fatty acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil is associated with a decreased risk of high blood pressure and triglyceride levels. Studies show that diets high in omega-3 fatty acids help with rheumatoid arthritis. Also, omega-3 fatty acids has shown reducing risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death from heart disease, but recent research has refuted some of these findings.

Omega-3 fatty acids have been studied in many other conditions like asthma, cancer, depression, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

The different types of omega-3 fatty acids can be confusing. There are the fish oils, which contain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid(EPA). Then there are the plant sources with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is converted into omega-3 fatty acids in the body.

Studies have generally used fish oils as the source for omega-3 fatty acids. While plant sources with ALA may have the same benefits, less is known about them. For now, fish oils with DHA and EPA have the more established benefit.
Effect of Supplementation of Fish Oil on Fatty Acids

How much omega-3 fatty acids should you take?

There are no standard doses for omega-3 fatty acids. Some experts recommend that people with heart disease take an omega-3 supplement. Those who are taking it for high cholesterol will likely need a higher dose. If you need to take omega-3 fatty acid supplements, ask your health care provider what dosage you should use. Children shouldn't use omega-3 fatty acid supplements unless a doctor suggests it. 

What are the side effects of the same?

  • Side effects. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements might cause upset stomach or diarrhea. These side effects are worse at higher doses.
  • Interactions. If you take blood thinners, anti-platelet drugs, or anti-inflammatory painkillers (like ibuprofen -Advil or Motrin), talk to your health care provider about using omega-3 fatty acids. The combination may increase the risk of bleeding. The same risks may apply to people taking supplements like ginkgo biloba.
  • Risks. People who are pregnant, or who have a high risk of diabetes, a high risk of bleeding (particularly those on 'blood thinners'), or high LDL cholesterol should check with their health care specialist before taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements. At very high doses, they could increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. Eating fish is generally the best way to get omega-3 fatty acids. 

Effect of Supplementation of Fish Oil on Fatty Acids

Benefits

What may support heart health?

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Studies show that people who eat a lot of fish have much lower rates of heart disease. Multiple risk factors for heart disease appear to be reduced by consumption of fish or fish oil. The benefits of fish oil for heart health include:

  • Cholesterol levels: It can increase levels of 'good' HDL cholesterol. However, it does not appear to reduce levels of 'bad' LDL cholesterol.
  • Triglycerides: It can lower triglycerides by about 15–30%.
  • Blood pressure: Even in small doses, it helps reduce blood pressure in people with -elevated levels.
  • Plaque: It may prevent the plaques that cause your arteries to harden, as well as make arterial plaques more stable and safer in those who already have them.
  • Fatal arrhythmias: In people who are at risk, it may reduce fatal arrhythmia events. Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that can cause heart attacks in certain cases.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are important omega-3 fatty acids which contribute to positive performance and support maintenance of healthy life. DHA is crucial to normal brain functions and brain efficiency, as it works on cellular level which helps one to learn, think, and remember with greater intellectual and positive emotional stability. EPA helps maintain healthy circulation and heart function. It also helps to manage joint discomfort, fatigue and maintain joint health. Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for athletes as they help reduce inflammation, increase oxygen delivery and allow maximal amount of oxygen-rich blood to reach our working muscle cells. Certainly, the role omega-3 fatty acids plays in the human body is really crucial. Your brain is made up of nearly 60% fat, and much of this fat is omega-3 fatty acids. Therefore, omega-3s are essential for normal brain function. In fact, some studies suggest that people with certain mental disorders have lower omega-3 blood levels. Fish oil supplements may improve body composition and risk factors for heart disease in obese people. Furthermore, some studies indicate that fish oil supplements, in combination with diet or exercise, can help you lose weight.
Effect of Supplementation of Fish Oil on Fatty Acids

How Much Is Too Much?

Although recommendations can vary widely, most health organizations recommend an intake of at least 250–500 milligrams of combined EPA and DHA, the two essential forms of omega-3 fatty acids, per day. However, a higher amount is often recommended for people with certain health conditions, such as heart disease or high triglyceride levels. One can take about 1000-2000mg per day. And so Fast & Up Promega is the right choice. Fast&Up Promega supplement is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Consumption of Fast&Up Omega-3 supplement with a high content of 1250 mg of Omega-3 rich fish oil with 375 mg EPA and 250 mg DHA.


author
Sayali Naik
Fast&Up Nutrition Consultant

Sayali works with a tons of people and players across the globe and across the sports disciplines, from grassroot to professional Cricketers, Football players, Badminton. Sayali is extremely passio... Read More

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