Fish Oil Capsules: Benefits, Risks & What You Need to Know

Fish oil capsules are an excellent source of the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. These essential nutrients are an important part of a healthy lifestyle. They offer numerous benefits and very few risks.

Benefits for the Heart

• Fish oil can lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and prevent heart attacks. It has been endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration as a potential preventative for coronary heart disease.

Benefits for the Brain

• Fish oil supplements might prevent or mitigate many psychiatric and cognitive disorders, including ADD, learning disabilities, depression, dementia, and some forms of psychosis.

Benefits for the Joints

• Fish oil is becoming popular as a component of naturopathic treatment plans for rheumatoid arthritis. The anti-inflammatory properties of fish oil can relieve joint pain.

Other Benefits

• Researchers are investigating fish oil's potential ability to prevent cancer, asthma, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, osteoporosis and macular degeneration.

Risks

• In extremely high doses, fish oil supplements may increase the risk of stroke and some types of heart disease. Low-quality fish oil supplements may contain contaminants like PCB and mercury.