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What are the Health Benefits of Fish Oil?

Fitday Editor
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Though there is a lot of information currently available that discusses the benefits of fish oil, it can be difficult to sort all of this information out. No matter if you are interested in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, arthritis, mental disorders, or simply want to get shinier hair, fish oil may be the perfect product for you.

Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease

One of the most important ways that fish oil can improve your health is through the ability of the oil to prevent cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is growing as one of the leading causes of death around the world, and therefore any food that can help further prevent this condition is important. The consumptions of fish oil has not only been found to be helpful in the lowering of triglycerides and cholesterol, but can also prevent certain heart rhythm abnormalities. Finally, fish oil intake has been found to be helpful in the prevention of hardening of the arteries, which is one of the most common causes of heart attack and death.

Treatment of Arthritis

Another important way fish oil can improve your health is in the treatment of arthritis. As the population gets older and older, more people will be suffering from this painful condition. While fish oil, in and of itself, is not a painkiller, research has found that prolonged use of the oil can be effective in reducing and preventing arthritis pain. Therefore, individuals who suffer from this condition should not be discouraged if they do not notice immediate relief from their arthritis after supplementation with the oil. It may take days, weeks, or even months to notice a significant change.

Treatment and Prevention of Mental Disorders

Mental disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and even schizophrenia are all serious conditions that effect not only the person suffering from the disease, but also the friends and family who surround and love them. Research has found that fish oil intake helps to maintain the function of dopamine and serotonin, which are both believed to contribute to the development of the conditions described above. It is important to remember that while fish oil may help in the treatment of these conditions, it is always best to use them in addition to your regular, doctor-prescribed medications.

Healthy Hair and Nails

So far, this article has focused on the physiological benefits of fish oil. However, fish oil can also be a cosmetic aid. Research has found that high intakes of fish oil can help improve the texture and quality of hair and nails. In addition, it appears that you don't necessarily need to consume the fish oil in order to get the benefits in this area. Application of the oil to your area of choice can be just as effective as eating foods that are rich in fish oil.

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