Top 10 Science-Based Benefits of Omega 3 Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of three vital types of omega-3 fats: ALA(Alpha-linolenic acid), DHA(docosahexaenoic acid), and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). These essential nutrients tend to play a fundamental role in maintaining the health & proper function of various parts of your body, including your retinas and brain.

It’s important to note that your body does not produce these omega-3 fatty acids, so you must obtain them through your balanced diet. Their absence can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being.

Omega-3, often sourced from doses of fish oil, has gained significant recognition for its remarkable health benefits in the last decade and has risen in popularity. In this blog, we’ll delve into the ten incredible benefits of omega 3 supplements.

What Are Omega-3s?

The family of essential fatty acids, also known as omega-3s, is vital to your body and has many potential health advantages. You have to get them through your food since your body is unable to manufacture them on its own.

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), & docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are the three most significant forms. DHA and EPA are mostly present in animal diets and algae, while ALA is generally found in plants.

Walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseed oil, fatty fish, and flax seeds are common foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. It is often advised to take an omega-3 supplementation, like fish oil or algae oil, for those who do not consume many of these food sources.

Top 10 Omega 3 Supplement Benefits

Now we know about the omega 3 and where they can be found easily. Supplements, being the most convenient way, bring in a plethora of benefits. Let us explore them in detail!

1. Brain Health

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) found in fish oil supplements, are essential for brain health. DHA, in particular, is a structural component of brain cell membranes.

One of the major benefits of omega 3 supplements is that they support cognitive function, enhance memory, and promote overall brain development.

2. Heart Health

Omega-3s, such as those found in fish oil supplements, offer an array of heart-healthy benefits. They have been shown to lower levels of triglycerides, a basic type of fat in the blood associated with heart disease.

Additionally, omega-3s may increase “good” HDL cholesterol levels, which helps remove harmful cholesterol from the blood vessels. Furthermore, these essential fatty acids have natural blood-thinning properties, reducing the risk of blood clotting that can lead to heart attacks or strokes.

3. Mental Health

Depression and anxiety are listed among the common mental health concerns that can potentially impact one’s quality of life. Omega-3 supplements, particularly those rich in EPA, have shown promise in alleviating symptoms typically linked with these conditions.

Those who regularly use fish oil supplements might be able to better control their anxiety and despair. This is the best benefit of omega 3 supplements, as good mental health ensures good physical health.

4. Eye Health

An important omega-3 fatty acid that keeps the eyes healthy is DHA. It is a crucial portion of the retina, which is the eye area responsible for vision. Because low DHA consumption might cause visual issues, omega-3 supplements are crucial for preserving eye health.

Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids have been connected to a lower risk of macular degeneration due to age, which is the main cause of blindness and visual impairment.

5. Pregnancy and Child Development

During pregnancy, omega-3 supplementation has been associated with numerous benefits for the child. It supports improved cognitive development, better communication & social skills, fewer behavioral problems, along a decreased risk of developmental delay.

These benefits underscore the importance of omega-3 consumption during pregnancy for the healthy development of the child’s brain and overall well-being.

6. ADHD Management

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is known as a behavioral disorder that affects many children. Some research suggests that children with ADHD may have decreased levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood.

Omega-3 supplementation has been investigated as a potential therapy for managing ADHD symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity, impulsiveness, restlessness, and aggression.

7. Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases usually occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body. Omega-3 fatty acids, including those from fish oil supplements, may protect against several autoimmune conditions, such as type 1 diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis.

While further research is needed, ongoing studies suggest that omega-3 dietary supplements offer potential benefits for those with autoimmune diseases.

8. Age-Related Mental Decline

Aging can bring about cognitive decline, including the risk of developing conditions like Alzheimer’s. Higher omega-3 dietary intake has been associated with reduced age-related mental decline and a decreased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Some studies suggest that omega-3 supplements may be beneficial when symptoms of Alzheimer’s are in their early stages, though further research is needed in this area.

9. Bone and Joint Health

Omega-3s may contribute to better bone strength by enhancing the amount of calcium in bones, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, ongoing research suggests that these fatty acids can alleviate pain & improve joint function in men and women with arthritis.

However, more extensive research is necessary to understand how omega-3s impact bone and joint health.

10. Menstrual Pain

Menstrual pain, which can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life, may be alleviated with omega-3 fatty acids. Some studies have indicated that omega-3s can reduce the severity of menstrual cramps.

In fact, one 2017 study even found that omega-3 supplementation turned out to be more effective than ibuprofen in dealing with severe menstrual pain.

Things to Consider While Purchasing Supplements

There might be an array of benefits of omega 3 supplements, but they can work in the reverse manner if you do not have the right one and cause several side effects. So, always carefully read the label before purchasing an omega-3 supplement.

Additionally, go over the following:

• Omega-3 Kind: The most significant forms of omega-3s, EPA and DHA, are often found in little amounts, if at all, in many omega-3 supplements. Make sure the dietary supplement has them.
• Quantity of Omega-3: A supplement’s label can state that each capsule has 1,000 mg of doses of fish oil. EPA and DHA, however, are just 320 mg, according to the information on the reverse.
• Omega-3 Form: Instead of EE (ethyl esters), seek PLs (phospholipids), TG, rTG (triglycerides & reformed triglycerides), and FFA (free fatty acids) for improved absorption.
• Honesty and Purity: A third-party seal or the GOED criteria for purity are two things you should try to purchase. These markings attest to their safety and ability to perform as promised.
• Freshness: Omega-3s tend to go bad. They will smell terrible and lose some potency or become dangerous once they go rotten. Make sure to smell the product, check the date, and find out whether it includes vitamin E or another antioxidant.
• Sustainability: Try to purchase fish oil supplements that have been certified by the Environmental Defense Fund, the MSC, or a comparable organization. Short-lived, little fish are usually more sustainable.

Conclusion

Now that you have learned the various benefits of omega 3 supplements make sure to include them in your healthy diet would be a wise choice. The market is flooded with options when it comes to the best omega-3 supplements.

Also, you can contact healthcare professionals to learn about a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids to help you in several aspects.

Benefits of Omega 3 Supplements – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is not a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. Ingredient Fact does not claim responsibility for this information.