Why should everyone take Fish oil supplements?
Have you heard of omega-3 fatty acids, DHA or EPA? These are ingredients and components of fish oil supplements. This is a type of fat that may be important for good general health and as our bodies cannot produce enough we need to obtain this from either food or supplementing. The main benefits of this fish oil supplementation is cardiovascular function, blood pressure balancing, reducing inflammation, minimising artery disease and reducing the risk of stroke.
Some of the top other benefits are below. See which, if any, relates to you and ask your local Edgewater Chiropractor Karli if you have any questions or are wanting to get some supplements. We stock Metagenic’s brand fish oil in our Edgewater clinic.
Arthritis
Research has found fish oil supplements may help relieve joint pain and stiffness in a similar way to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) -ibuprofen, nurofen, aspirin, naproxen. Most types of arthritis including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis have evidence to say fish oils may help control symptoms. Long term use of fish oil supplements has also shown less reliance on NSAIDs. Be patient as it may take 2-3 months of taking supplements before you are likely to see improvements in your symptoms of arthritis.
Pregnancy
Fish oils are an amazing way to support mothers and their bodies (and their BABY!!). Fish oil supplements can help mum’s muscles and heart to stay strong. Babies in the womb need DHA for development of their central nervous system and eyes. Also in the third trimester EPA is super important for development of your babies brain and up to 18 months after, so it is important not only for pregnant mums but also breastfeeding mums to be taking fish oil supplements. There is also research that links omega-3 supplements with lower rates of preterm births. There is also studies that have found hand and eye coordination at 2 years old was scored higher for toddlers that had mothers who supplemented fish oils.
*Always consult you OB/midwife/GP before you start any new supplements - even though fish oils are widely known to be safe and effective for absorption in utero.
Reduce inflammation levels
As fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, this is how inflammation can be reduced when consuming fish oil supplements. This anti-inflammatory property is likely to aid in reduction of pain within joints.
Some foods that are rich in fish oil goodness are listed below:
Cold climate fish: Salmon, Mackerel, Tuna, herring and Sardines
However please consider that there is a risk of consuming high levels of mercury in these fish. It is indicated for pregnant mothers to minimise the risk of mercury positioning to consume less than three portions of fish per week.
Nuts and seeds: Flaxseeds, Chia seeds and Walnuts
Plant oils: Flaxseed oil, Canola oil and Soybean oil
Our main take home from this is if you are taking fish oil supplements please check they actually contain EPA and DHA. The recommended amount of EPA and DHA in fish oil supplements is between 400mg to 900mg per day.
If you are interested in further information or purchasing fish oils, send us an email; formchiro@gmail.com or ask at your next appointment at FORM Chiropractic.
We offer online bookings whether you are wanting to start care or continue your chiro care. Click here to book online
See you soon at FORM Chiropractic
Suite 13, 1 The Gateway, EDGEWATER, 6027
