What Are the Health Benefits of Taking Fish Oil & Omega-3 Daily?
Contaminants While most doctors recommend eating fish twice a week to get the benefits of omega-3 acids, some types of fish are high in mercury and other contaminants. Fish oil supplements do not contain mercury, so they are preferable for pregnant and nursing women and others who wish to avoid these contaminants. EPA and DHA Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are the two primary omega-3 fatty acids in fish. Alpha-linolenic acid (LNA), an omega-3 fatty acid found in plant foods, may have some benefits as well, but the evidence on DHA and EPA is stronger at this point. High Blood Pressure There have been numerous studies showing that omega-3 fatty acids, and DHA in particular, lower blood pressure. Triglycerides Evidence shows that EPA and DHA in combination can reduce triglycerides and raise “good” cholesterol. One drawback, however, is that they might also increase LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol. Heart Disease In clinical trials, people who already experienced a he
