Aug 28 2009
Benefits of Omega-3 DHA Fish Oil Supplements
The numerous benefits of Omega 3 DHA fish oil supplements never cease to amaze medical science although there are more studies that have to be conducted to confirm its benefits on some specific medical conditions.
DHA, the Wonder Fatty Acid
DHA is one of the nutrients of Omega 3. It plays a significant role in the health of the brain, heart, and eyes. Derived from fish oils DHA is safe, and a delicious way of keeping yourself healthy. The whole family can benefit from this fatty acid, including infants and the elderly. DHA is critical for the growth and development of infants up to two years and crucial in the later stages of old age.
DHA is healthy fat. Currently, DHA is the one fatty acid that has led to several breakthroughs in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular ailments and conditions that can lead to heart disease. Taken as a daily diet supplement it keeps the nerve cells of the brain and retina healthy. It also promotes healthy cells that are vital the nourishment of the body?s several systems particularly the brain cells.
The cells of the human body need essential fatty acid to function, grow, and replace old cells. A diet rich in Omega fatty acids, particularly DHA provides the body with the needed healthy fats to nourish the different body cells. It also takes on the role of lowering cholesterol levels, prevents the formation of arterial clots, and reverses the negative effects of excessive trans fat acids.
The brain is mostly composed of DHA, which it needs to nourish the nerve cells that transmit messages to other body parts. The retina of the eyes also contains higher concentrations of DHA. DHA provides both brain and retina, the nourishment it needs to function properly. In children, DHA contributes to better cognitive and brain function in later life. The presence of high levels of DHA in the brain makes it the most important fatty acid that can sustain life and health.
Major Health Benefits
DHA plays a significant role in heart health, brain health, eye health, and peri-natal health. For heart health, DHA gets a boost from the Food and Drug Administration, which agreed, to the claim that DHA may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
But clinical studies suggested DHA is instrumental in lowering the risks of dementia, reducing symptoms of arthritis, increasing mental clarity and focus, providing the needed nutrition in post-operative care, and improving atopic eczema.
Sources of DHA
Sea vegetables, fish (albacore, bluefin tuna, herring, salmon, and white) are excellent sources of DHA. The essential fatty oils from these sources are extracted and processed under strict and hygienic pharmaceutical standards.
Contra-Indications
Hemophiliacs should take DHA with great precaution. Pregnant women should also get their doctor’s advice before taking the supplement and those going into surgery should stop taking DHA or omega 3 fish oil supplements. Minor side effects are fishy breath, diarrhea, and nosebleeds but normally these only occur if the supplement is taken beyond the recommended dose.
