Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish oil is recommended as part of a healthy diet, because it is the best source of the essential omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. These omega-3 fatty acids are ‘essential’ fatty acids, which means they cannot be made in the body and must be obtained from dietary sources. Essential fatty acids were given their name when researchers found that they were essential for normal growth and development in young children and animals. In addition to their importance for normal development, much new research now suggests significant health benefits as well. 
Research shows that consumption of these essential fatty acids significantly lower the risks associated with heart disease. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil have been shown to drastically reduce the levels of VLDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol and serum triglycerides are significant risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Omega-3 fatty acids have also shown to reduce blood levels of homocysteine, another substance associated with heart disease and stroke. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to lower blood pressure, help prevent cardiac arrhythmias (dangerous irregular heartbeats), and also help prevent the blood clots which lead to heart attacks and strokes by mediating the ‘stickiness’ of platelets.Omega-3 fatty acids have also been found to be important not only for brain development in infants; but may also increase attention span in childhood, have a role in treatment of depression, and help prevent memory loss late in life. The protective effects of DHA and EPA from neurotoxin-induced decrease of dopamine seen in previous studies also suggest a possible role in prevention of Parkinson’s disease. The omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA have also shown to have general anti-inflammatory effects which have led researchers to suggest benefits in conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, and some evidence suggests a role in helping improve clinical outcomes in Multiple Sclerosis. Additional ResourcesAnti-Aging Nutrition- Best Anti-Aging FoodsDiscover anti-aging foods which can help slow and prevent the degenerative effects of aging and the diseases associated with aging. The Antioxidant Network The antioxidant network is our bodies' primary defense against free radicals. A review including Glutathione, Lipoic acid, Vitamin E, Vitamin C and CoQ10. Polyphenols and Flavonoid Antioxidants Learn about the anti-aging and health benefits of polyphenols and flavonoid antioxidants found in red wine, teas and chocolate. Carotenoids – Xanthophylls and Carotenes Classes Carotenoids are important antioxidants including lutein, zeaxanthin, astaxanthin, beta-carotene and lycopene. Anti-Aging Fitness Program Free Anti-aging Fitness Program - Get Fit at Any Age, Physical Fitness Made Easy - Discover the benefits of exercise. Start feeling younger today! Learn to Stop Smoking Why you should stop, breaking the habit, the physiological and psychological addictions, symptoms of nicotine withdrawal and medication and programs that are available. Return to Home Page from Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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