Have you wondered why fish oil is highly recommended for a healthy diet? Fish oil is rich in Omega 3 fatty acids--eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These acids have been proven to reduce inflammation in the body.
The fish from which the omega 3 fatty acids are extracted do not actually produce these acids. They acquire and accumulate the omega 3 fatty acids in their body by consuming microalgae that contain these acids. Herrings and sardines are predatory fish that are also a rich source of omega 3 fatty acids. The Herrings and Sardines eat other fish which have accumulated omega 3 fatty acids by eating microalgae. However, mackerel, lake trout, albacore tuna and salmon which are predatory fishes at the top of the food chain are not recommended for consumption in large quantities by the FDA as they accumulate toxins in addition to the omega 3 from their food.
In this context fish oil is gaining importance. The omega 3 acid extracted from the predatory fish is purified and the toxins removed before the product is marketed. The process of purification is patented in a process called stripping technology. Most of the fish oils that are used as food supplements are manufactured in Peru, Chile and Morocco where there is a rich source of fish. The biggest names in this product market are companies like Ewos, Skretting and Biomar.
The fish oil is extracted from the body of the fish and the liver is not used. The liver is rich in Vitamin A and can be dangerous to the human body in large quantities.
Fish oil is believed to regulate cholesterol. Research also has proved that the oil has anti inflammatory properties. Studies have indicated that levels of omega 3 impact upon the psychology of people too. People who consumed Fish oil were less violent than those who did not consume fish oil or products that were rich in omega 3. The American heart association strongly recommends a daily dose of fish oil for people with coronary disease. The US National Institutes of health encourage patients with hypertrigyceridemia, secondary cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure to consume fish oil as essential for health. Fish oil has also been found to protect the brain against cognitive disorders. However, large doses of fish oil have been found to increase bleeding and hemorrhagic stroke.
While fish oil is a wonderful health supplement, it is important to consult your physician before you include it in your diet if you are suffering from any diseases for which you are under treatment.
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