Now that we are all diet conscious in modern western society it’s interesting to look back and see how things have changed over the last hundred years or so. I remember as a little boy being chased around the room with my grandmother holding a large spoon of cod liver oil for me each morning. I hated it and couldn’t see the point – but it’s now clear that marine oils and other oils rich in omega three or omega six fats can lower blood pressure, reduce stroke risk and improve the function of joints and skin.
And it’s not only the heart that can benefit. The natural marine oils have also been shown to help with brain function, with joints and muscles and of course with skin complaints like eczema. Some early research also seems to show that they are involved in the bodies inflammation pathways – hinting that they might also be able to help treat asthma and other inflammation related conditions.
How then do you decide which fish oil supplement to take? Do you choose the purified and simple oil concentrate in liquid form? Will a capsule be better for you? Even then there are issues about how often to take it and in what dose. Choices abound and it gets even more complex when you take account of the fact that there are several different marine oils to choose from.
Ok – it’s true of course that you might simply elect to simply tuck into fresh oily fish every day. There are countries around the globe where the natural diet delivers this but the actual amount of fish you would need is off putting to say the least. A lot of folks are happy with the simplicity of taking a regular capsule. Some use cod liver oil, some take halibut oil and others go for the more modern concentrated omega three or omega six concentrates.
Cards on the table then … it’s a real no brain decision this one folks ! Well – in my opinion anyway. The evidence for benefit from omega based marine oils is now overwhelming. If you can get in the habit of taking a regular daily dose then you can cut your risk of early death from stroke or heart attack by a massive amount. Come on … it’s only a little capsule after all !
What’s stopping you consuming a daily amount of omega based heart health? Is it the worry about the side effects of fish oil? Or are you content that you don’t need to worry about supplements for high blood pressure. Don’t be complacent – it could be the death of you!