Review of a useful product of animal origin - fish oil: what it is, where it comes from, why it is useful, contraindications, application, chemical composition, interesting facts.
In appearance, this healthy product contains many polyunsaturated fatty acids of the omega 6 and 3 groups, yellow or reddish in color, and the consistency resembles vegetable oil, but with a characteristic smell and taste of fish. The main countries for production are Norway and the USA; depending on the method of production (factory or household), it is divided into three varieties: white, yellow, brown. Accordingly, it is used in medicine, the cosmetic industry, as an improvement in nutrition for oral administration, and also for technical purposes (for example, in the production of lubricants, leather dressing, as fertilizer, etc.)
Beneficial properties of fish oil
Only two varieties are used for food and medicinal purposes: light yellow peeled and brownish unpeeled. These are derivatives of one product, but the question still arises: which fish oil is better?
Research by scientists has established that the factory method produces a purer product, in which only healthy properties and substances remain, while the simple method leaves animal fat with harmful products of decomposed liver and foreign impurities, and it also has a pungent taste and smell. The second production method is cheaper, but can upset digestion, so it is prescribed for oral administration for a short time.
What are the benefits of fish oil? Its main benefit to the body is the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which quickly oxidize in our body and do not require a large consumption of nitrogenous material involved in the construction of tissues. Medical interest also depends on the phosphorus, iodine, and salts contained in fish.
Comparing it with other animal fats and vegetable oils, the fish fatty tissue emulsion breaks down into smaller particles and is therefore absorbed faster and more easily through the pores of cell membranes for further oxidation. A similar product can be administered into the body in relatively large dosages (up to 30 ml per day) and for quite a long time.
Take fat “extracted” from fish:
- to improve the quality of general nutrition (for example, the substances present in it will improve the condition of nails, skin, etc.);
- patients with tuberculous processes in the lung tissue, glands, bones;
- those recovering in the clinic and at home, for recovery after suffering serious illnesses;
- patients with anemia (especially with “female” diseases);
- for children to prevent the development of rickets;
- for the treatment of night blindness.
Contraindications for fish oil
High quality fish oil can be harmful if stored improperly. It becomes rancid faster than other similar products in hot weather at high positive temperatures, so it is more often prescribed in the cool season.
Fish oil is harmful:
- in case of febrile conditions, the product is also contraindicated;
- people with catarrhal diseases of the intestines and stomach, there is a high probability of deterioration of the already abnormal function of the digestive organs;
- with individual intolerance;
- women during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Calorie content and chemical composition of fish oil
Fish oil contains many glycerides: oleic acid, palmitic acid, fatty acids, stearic acid and microdoses of acetic, capric, butyric and valeric acids. Also contains microdoses of nitrogenous derivatives (trimethylamine, ammonia, butylamine). And the unexplored particles of ptomain are morruin, azellin.
The calorie content of fish oil per 100 g is 902 kcal, as well as:
- Saturated fatty acids - 23 g
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids - 23 g
- Monounsaturated fatty acids - 47 g
- Cholesterol - 570 mg
- Carbohydrates - 0 g
- Protein - 0 g
- - 30 mg
- D - 0.25 mg
Use of fish oil
Fish oil is available in liquid form and capsules. Both types are suitable for use for medical purposes or simply to improve the quality of nutrition, only one is prescribed in milliliters, the other in pieces (daily dose), they are equal in quality - both are useful.
You need to take fish oil either during meals or after, but not on an empty stomach before meals, otherwise there may be an upset.
Depending on the purpose of use, the instructions for using fish oil may contain information about the dosage and duration of use (usually 1–3 months). For example…
How to take fish oil for weight loss
Animal fat from fish actively removes abdominal deposits. Take it according to the scheme - three times after meals, a teaspoon (in liquid form), or 1 capsule (1000 mg) in the morning and evening. But a mandatory condition is dietary restrictions (must be limited in animal fats and carbohydrates), physical activity or a more active lifestyle.
For children
For children, liquid fish oil is prescribed to make it easier to swallow. The dosage is minimal (according to the pediatrician's advice) - literally a few drops (3-5 drops 2 times a day from one month of age, from 1 year you can give 1 teaspoon once a day). It is more convenient for older children to take it in capsule form - not every child can tolerate the fishy taste and smell. Its dosage depends on the weight and age of the child. Children over 7 years old can take 1 tsp. (5 ml) 3 times a day. Take 2-3 months.
To improve the condition of hair, nails, skin
Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are usually recommended for split ends, thinning, damaged and thinning hair, brittle nails, etc. It is used both externally and internally for quite a long time. For application to hair and nails - mixed with other ingredients, orally - in combination with vitamins (necessarily after meals).
In Soviet times, large-scale preventive measures were taken: children in preschool and school institutions were required to take liquid fish oil. This was due to the findings of scientists about the lack of polyunsaturated fatty acids in food. In 1970, this event was canceled due to the poor environmental friendliness of sea waters (in other words, pollution). But in 1997 the decree was canceled. But the British still do not give this product to their children under 5 years of age for the same reason as in the Soviet Union, believing that a lot of poisons accumulate in the cod liver.
Vitamin complex of animal origin
Active substance
Fish fat
Release form, composition and packaging
◊ Capsules soft gelatin, oval, with a seam, elastic, transparent, light yellow; the contents of the capsules are a transparent oily liquid from light yellow to yellow in color with a weak specific, non-rancid odor.
| 1 caps. | |
| fortified fish oil* | 500 mg |
*contains A - 500 IU, vitamin D - 50 IU, eicosapentaenoic acid - no less than 8%, docosahexaenoic acid - no less than 9%, polyunsaturated fatty acids - no less than 20%
Composition of the capsule shell: gelatin - 136.13 mg, glycerol - 62.92 mg, purified water - 17.6 mg, methyl parahydroxybenzoate - 0.28 mg, propyl parahydroxybenzoate - 0.07 mg.
10 pieces. - contour cellular packaging (aluminum/PVC) (5) - cardboard packs.
pharmachologic effect
Fish oil capsules are a medicinal product of animal origin, the effect of which is determined by the properties of its constituent vitamins A and D.
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, plays an important role in redox processes, participates in the synthesis of mucopolysaccharides, proteins, and lipids. Participates in the formation of visual pigments necessary for normal twilight and color vision: ensures the integrity of epithelial tissues, regulates bone growth.
Vitamin D stimulates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the intestines, the reabsorption of calcium and phosphorus in the kidneys, the transport of calcium through cell membranes, and regulates the preservation of bone structure. It also has a positive effect on the development of the immune system, proliferation and differentiation of cells, synthesis of lipids and a number of hormones, functional activity of the cardiovascular system and gastrointestinal tract, and reduces the level of parathyroid hormone in the blood. It is necessary for the normal functioning of the parathyroid glands and takes part in the synthesis of adenosine triphosphoric acid.
Pharmacokinetics
Suction
Absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (mainly from the duodenum and jejunum) after emulsification with bile acids. Retinol entering the intestinal microvilli undergoes esterification. The resulting retinyl palmitate binds to specific lipoproteins, penetrates the lymphatic pathways and, as part of chylomicrons, enters the liver, where it is captured by stellate reticuloendotheliocytes and then by hepatocytes. where chylomicrons are broken down, releasing retinyl palmitate, retinol and retinal and the resulting retinoic acid. Retinol binds to a specific protein, enters the blood, combines with and is transported to various organs.
Absorption of vitamin D occurs in the proximal small intestine, necessarily in the presence of bile. Part of vitamin D is absorbed in the middle sections of the small intestine and a small part in the ileum. After absorption, cholecal-ciferol is found in the composition of chylomicrons in free form and only partially in the form of an ether. In the blood, most of it is bound to gamma globulins and albumins.
Distribution
Retinol is distributed unevenly in the body: the largest amount is in the liver and retina, the smaller amount is in the kidneys, heart, lungs, lactating mammary gland, and adrenal glands. Retinol is deposited in the form of retinol palmitate, its reserves are slowly but constantly renewed. In tissues, retinol is localized predominantly in the microsomal fraction, mitochondria, lysosomes, and in the membranes of cells and organelles. Vitamin D accumulates in large quantities in bones, in smaller quantities in the liver, muscles, blood, and intestines, and is stored especially long in adipose tissue. Penetrates into difficult milk in small quantities.
Metabolism and excretion
Retinol binds to glucuronic acid: D3-glucuronate undergoes hepatic circulation and oxidation to retinal and retinoic acid. Retinoic acid undergoes decarboxylation and binds to glucuronic acid, subsequently excreted in bile and feces. The half-life of retinol is very long and is measured from several weeks to several months. Retinoic acid and other water-soluble metabolites are also excreted in urine and feces.
The main processes of vitamin D biotransformation occur in the skin, liver and kidneys. In the skin, under the influence of ultraviolet irradiation, vitamin D3 is formed from precursors. In the liver, vitamin D is hydroxylated. converted to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-OH-D3). The latter in the kidneys, with the participation of arate hormone, is converted into the most active metabolite of vitamin D - calcitriol, or 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (25(OH)2-D3). The half-life of vitamin D from the body is about 19 days. It is excreted through bile, initially into the intestine (15-30% of the administered dose during the day), where it undergoes enterohepatic circulation (reabsorption). The remaining part is excreted in the feces.
Indications
— prevention of hypovitaminosis A and D.
Contraindications
- hypersensitivity to the components of the drug;
- idiopathic hypercalcemia;
- hypercalciuria;
— acute and chronic diseases of the liver and kidneys;
- chronic pancreatitis;
- urolithiasis disease;
— hypervitaminosis A and D;
— pulmonary tuberculosis (active form);
- cholelithiasis;
- long-term immobilization (large doses);
- thyrotoxicosis;
- acute inflammatory skin diseases;
- sarcoidosis and other granulomatosis;
- pregnancy, breastfeeding period;
- children under 7 years of age.
Carefully: organic heart damage, stage II-III failure, gastric and duodenal ulcers, atherosclerosis, alcoholism, hypothyroidism, old age.
Dosage
Take 1-2 capsules orally 3 times a day, after meals, with cold or lukewarm water.
It is recommended to swallow the capsules immediately with plenty of water; you should not keep them in your mouth for a long time, because The gelatin contained in the shell may make the capsule sticky, making subsequent swallowing difficult. The course of application is at least 1 month. The duration of taking the drug is determined by the doctor.
Side effects
Overdose
Symptoms of acute vitamin A overdose: double vision, dizziness, diarrhea, irritability, osteoporosis, bleeding gums, dryness and ulceration of the oral mucosa, peeling of the lips, skin, confusion, increased intracranial pressure.
loss of appetite, bone pain, cracked and dry skin, dry oral mucosa, gastralgia, vomiting, hyperthermia, asthenia, fatigue, discomfort, headache, photosensitivity, pollakiuria, nocturia, polyuria, irritability, hair loss, yellow-orange spots on the soles, palms, in the area of the nasolabial triangle, hepatotoxic phenomena, intraocular hypertension, oligomenorrhea, portal hypertension, hemolytic anemia, changes in bone radiographs, convulsions.
Symptoms of acute vitamin D intoxication (early): dryness of the oral mucosa, thirst, constipation or diarrhea, polyuria, anorexia, metallic taste in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weakness, adynamia, hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, dehydration; (late): bone pain, cloudy urine, increased blood pressure, itching, photosensitivity of the eyes, conjunctival hyperemia, arrhythmia, drowsiness, myalgia, nausea, vomiting, pancreatitis, gastralgia, weight loss, rarely - psychosis and mood changes.
Symptoms of chronic intoxication: calcification of soft tissues, kidneys, lungs, blood vessels, arterial hypertension, renal and chronic heart failure; in children - growth disturbance.
Treatment: discontinuation of the drug, diet low in calcium, consumption of large amounts of fluid. Symptomatic treatment. A specific antidote is unknown.
Drug interactions
The activity of vitamin D may be decreased when used concomitantly with anticonvulsants or barbiturates.
When used simultaneously with estrogens, the risk of hypervitaminosis A increases.
Vitamin A reduces the anti-inflammatory effect of glucocorticoids.
Weakens the effect of calcium supplements, benzodiazepines and increases the risk of developing hypercalcemia.
Cholestyramine, colestipol, mineral oils reduce the absorption of vitamin A.
Isotretinoin increases the risk of toxic effects.
The simultaneous use of tetracycline and vitamin A in high doses (50 thousand units and above) increases the risk of developing intracranial hypertension.
High doses of vitamin E can reduce vitamin A stores in the body.
With hypervitaminosis D, it is possible to enhance the effect of cardiac glycosides and increase the risk of arrhythmia.
Under the influence of barbiturates (including phenobarbital), phenytoip, and primidone, the need for vitamin D can increase significantly.
Long-term therapy with the drug against the background of simultaneous use of aluminum and magnesium-containing antacids increases the concentration of vitamins A and D in the blood. Calcitonin, bisphosphonates, isoniazid, rifampicin, plicamycin, glucocorticosteroids reduce the effect of the drug.
Increases the absorption of phosphorus-containing drugs and the risk of developing hyperphosphatemia. When used simultaneously, the interval between doses should be at least 2 hours; with oral forms of tetracyclines - at least 3 hours.
special instructions
Long-term use in high doses leads to chronic hypervitaminosis. When using vitamin D prophylactically, it is necessary to keep in mind the possibility of overdose, especially in children.
In old age, the need for vitamin D may increase. One capsule of the drug contains 500 IU of vitamin A and 50 MF, vitamin D.
Impact on the ability to drive vehicles and machinery
The use of the drug does not affect the ability to drive vehicles or engage in other potentially hazardous activities that require increased concentration and speed of psychomotor reactions.
Pregnancy and lactation
Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.
Use in childhood
Contraindicated for children under 7 years of age.
For impaired renal function
Contraindicated in acute and chronic kidney diseases.
For liver dysfunction
Contraindicated in acute and chronic liver diseases.
Conditions for dispensing from pharmacies
Over the counter.
Storage conditions and periods
In a dry place, protected from light, at a temperature not exceeding 25°C. Keep out of the reach of children. Shelf life - 2 years.
Anna Mironova
Reading time: 12 minutes
A A
The onset of cold weather and increased mental and physical stress force us to pay additional attention to the state of our immunity. In this matter, the “old” and “good” remedy - fish oil - turns out to be an indispensable assistant.
Today, together with the magazine site, we will understand the benefits of this wonderful remedy for the body, we will look in detail composition of fish oil, pros and cons for health
.
Composition of fish oil - what vitamins are contained in fish oil?
It is believed that the fame of fish oil was brought by the pharmacist from Norway Peter Meller, who popularized fish oil as an additional resource for restoring the body. 
Fish oil is an animal fat, a unique and irreplaceable natural product, contained largely in marine fish of the world's oceans - mackerel, herring and other fatty fish. The main benefits of fish oil lie in its unique composition:
- omega-3
- vitamin A
- vitamin D
- antioxidants
Let's consider the benefits of each substance separately:
- Omega-3
Increases the ability to dilate blood vessels, reduces the risk of blood clots, which produce prostaglandins necessary to trigger the anti-inflammatory effect in the body, accelerates the body's recovery processes, restores muscles, reduces the level of stress cortisone, improves the condition of the skin and normalizes blood pressure. A dietary source of omega-3 is, in addition to fish oil, flaxseed oil. - Vitamin A
Improves metabolism, plays a significant role in immunity, controls the skin and mucous membranes, protects the body from the harmful effects of free radicals and cancer, and is also necessary for maintaining good vision. - Vitamin D
Responsible for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, necessary for the construction of bone tissue. - Antioxidants
They allow you to protect organs and tissues from the effects of aggressive radicals; they can also prevent the destructive effect of free radicals on the cells of organisms, slowing down their aging processes.
The importance of fish oil depends mainly on the contents fat; remaining components - iodine, bromine and phosphorus, bile pigments and salts, are contained in small quantities that are not capable of achieving therapeutic effects.
The benefits of fish oil, indications for use – who benefits from fish oil and how?
For reference:
Athenian scientists conducted observations of a group of subjects aged 18-90 years and concluded that regular consumption of fatty fish will help avoid problems with the cardiovascular system.
Boston scientists confirmed the data of their colleagues and commented on the research results, giving priority to fish with dark meat - sardinia and mackerel.
Scientists from the University of Sydney published information that children who regularly consume fish or fish oil are less susceptible to asthma than their peers.
It has been proven that the lack of sufficient amounts of omega-3 in the body leads to memory loss. Fish oil lowers blood cholesterol and normalizes the gastrointestinal tract, stimulating weight loss
. Thus, fish oil is useful for those people who want to lose excess weight and maintain stable body weight.
It is worth highlighting that fish oil increases serotonin levels in the body - this is the hormone of happiness.
Let us remember that fish oil is mainly used for prevention rather than for treatment.
Daily value of fish oil for adults and children, main sources of fish oil
Fish oil in its original form has a thick consistency of a light yellow/reddish hue and has a characteristic fishy smell and taste. 
In childhood, our mothers fed us fish oil from spoons, but now everything has become much simpler - it is easy to buy in capsules at the pharmacy. Such capsules retain their properties perfectly
and protect fish oil from the effects of oxidation, somewhat reducing its “special” taste and smell. 
- deficiency of vitamins A and D in the body,
- treatment of eye diseases,
- dry skin and mucous membranes,
- to strengthen the protective functions of the immune system,
- poor condition of hair and nails,
- for memory impairment and depression,
- for the treatment of wounds and burns (local application).
General tips for taking fish oil for children and adults
- Fish oil intake should be during or after meals .
- The recommended dose for an adult is the quantity 15 ml or 1000-2000 mg per day , this is approximately equal to 2-4 capsules of 500 mg . The reception should be divided 2-3 times a day .
- Pediatricians sometimes prescribe fish oil to children, starting from the first month of life, the dose should not exceed 3/5 drops twice a day . By one year the amount can be increased up to 0.5/1 teaspoon per day , and by two years - up to two teaspoons . After 3 years, children can take 2-3 times a day a dessert spoon of fat , and at 7 years old - 2-3 times a day, a tablespoon .
- It is considered the most expensive, especially valuable and high quality salmon fish oil .
- Can you take fish oil continuously? 3-4 weeks , then take a break.
- Ideal time to take: from September to May .
- Fish oil should only be stored in the refrigerator .
Fish oil – contraindications; is it possible to overdose on fish oil?
Fish have the ability to accumulate a certain amount of toxic substances in their bodies - mercury, dioxins and others. Therefore it is possible to contain certain amount of toxins in fish oil .
However, the benefits of fish oil are much greater than the harm it can cause - if, of course, you take it in accordance with standards
, and use only quality drugs
.
Due to the intake of fish oil, it may decreased blood clotting and increased vitamin A levels
, therefore, fish oil should always be taken according to the norm, and before use, be sure to consult a doctor, especially if you have any disease.
Contraindications to the use of fish oil
- allergic reactions,
- high blood calcium levels,
- nephrourolithiasis,
- hypervitaminosis D,
- the presence of stones in the urinary and biliary tract,
- sarcoidosis,
- immobilization,
- thyrotoxicosis,
- pulmonary tuberculosis,
- chronic renal failure,
- increased sensitivity.
Fish oil should be taken with caution when
- organic heart lesions,
- chronic liver and kidney diseases,
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract,
- duodenal ulcer,
- during pregnancy and lactation,
- for hypothyroidism,
- elderly people.
Before taking fish oil, be sure to consult your doctor!
Nowadays, a sufficient amount of fish oil from various manufacturers is presented on the pharmacy market. You don't have to choose the most expensive or the cheapest. Go online and read customer reviews one manufacturer or another, and make the right choice.
Read the directions on the package carefully, follow the instructions - and be healthy!
The website warns: self-medication can harm your health! Use all the tips presented only after examination and on the recommendation of a doctor!
In this article we will study the properties of the omega-3 dietary supplement obtained from fish waste products.
It is this fatty acid that brings great benefits to the health of the skin, heart, brain, and can also be used to relieve symptoms and inflammatory processes, treat stomach diseases, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Fish oil: what is it and where does it come from?
Fish oil is a product obtained from some fish, which is used as a dietary supplement due to its abundant content omega-3(fatty acids necessary for the proper functioning of the body).
Fish oil is usually obtained from cod, trout, salmon, tuna and sardines. After the purification process, waste material such as innards, heads, tails, etc. are heated and through chemical reactions, an oil is produced, which is used as a food source of omega-3.
Composition and nutritional value of fish oil
Fish oil, in addition to being rich in omega-3, also contains a large number of elements that benefit the human body.
Among the most important:
- Iron: an important element for blood - part of hemoglobin, which ensures the delivery of oxygen to all cells of the body; is also important for the synthesis of many other substances, such as collagen, neurotransmitters, etc.;
- Vitamin E: natural antioxidant, acts at the level of the vascular, muscular and immune systems;
- Vitamin A: promotes the growth of bone tissue and teeth, participates in the processes of the retina and plays an important role at the level of embryonic development;
- Vitamin D: indispensable in the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus;
- Vitamin B: refers to coenzymes involved in enzymatic processes that accelerate molecular transformations; indispensable in the metabolism of fatty acids and proteins, converts carbohydrates into glucose;
- Iodine: necessary for the formation of thyroid hormones;
Calorie content of fish oil– about 902 kcal per 100 g of product – seems very high, but keep in mind that the recommended daily dose is about 1-3 grams, which corresponds to 9-27 kcal.
Nutritional properties of fish oil
Of course, the presence of omega-3 is the main reason why fish oil should be present in everyone's diet, but it is not the only reason. In fact, it contains many other elements that can help solve or alleviate problems of various kinds.
Fish oil also contains fatty acids EPA and DHA. These acids provide energy to the cells so that the body cannot function without them.
Rich vitamins A and D, which play an important role for the proper functioning of the body, participating in various chemical processes. For example, vitamin A deficiency can lead to vision problems. While insufficient intake of vitamin D can lead to an imbalance in the secretion of parathyroid hormone (produced by the parathyroid glands), which causes osteoporosis, hypertension, muscle weakness and so on.
In addition, high content vitamin E gives fish oil a powerful antioxidant effect. This vitamin neutralizes free radicals that are formed during certain metabolic processes. By blocking free radicals, fish oil protects the body from aging and degenerative diseases.
Therapeutic properties and benefits of omega-3
The healing properties of fish oil are provided mainly by the presence of omega-3 and their effect on inflammatory processes. By stimulating the synthesis of eicosanoids, the acute inflammatory process disappears faster.
The healing properties of fish oil have been known since ancient times. In populations where fish consumption has always been high (Eskimos and Japanese), there is a reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease. Only in the eighties, scientists were able to find out that this fact is associated with the consumption of large amounts of fish.
Healthier Heart with Omega-3
The main healing property of omega-3 is maintaining cardiac function. In the cardiovascular area, they have an antiplatelet effect, interfere with the processes of vasodilation and vasoconstriction, which regulate blood pressure.
Omega-3 against cholesterol and inflammation
Among the other benefits that come from consuming omega-3 we have:
- Omega-3s stimulate eicosanoid production(including prostaglandins) are biological agents that perform various biological functions. In particular, during the process of inflammation, such agents restore the normal state of the body so that avoid chronic inflammation. Therefore, they play an important role in eliminating inflammatory processes.
- Joints: Fatty acids from fish oil have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help prevent diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, which is characterized by inflammation of the tissues that make up the joints;
- Digestive system: Omega-3s are able to suppress the secretion of certain inflammatory substances and therefore relieve symptoms associated with infections of the digestive system: gastritis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease;
- Kidneys: For inflammatory kidney disease, fish oil supplements help reduce symptoms associated with the disease;
- Skin and hair: Fish oil is good for skin and hair. Polyunsaturated fatty acids have the ability to retain water in tissues, and this makes the skin more hydrated and elastic; Deficiency of these elements leads to dry skin, which leads to the development of acne and rashes, split hair and brittle nails. In addition, the anti-inflammatory effect may be useful in the case of psoriasis, dermatitis and rosacea;
- Brain: the presence of DHA in brain tissue is important because it protects the functions of cell membranes that transmit nerve signals; Regular consumption of fish oil ensures better fluidity of nerve impulses, which ensure good alertness and memory;
- Psyche: According to a recent study, omega-3s contained in fish oil have a protective effect on brain cells by increasing the production of glutathione, an antioxidant, which helps maintain brain activity.
Fish oil for diabetes, pregnancy and childhood
There are specific physiological conditions or pathological conditions in which fish oil can greatly benefit our body.
Diabetes– the anti-inflammatory effect of omega 3 reduces typical chronic inflammation, which increases insulin resistance.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding– Taking omega-3 during pregnancy is not only beneficial, but also highly recommended. Prostaglandins produced from fatty acids influence numerous physiological processes, including neurological development and fetal vision. Fish oil also benefits the mother by preventing postpartum depression, strengthening blood vessels, preventing the spread of inflammatory conditions, and increasing milk production during breastfeeding.
Children and babies– Children who regularly consume fish oil are less at risk of cardiovascular diseases, strokes and heart attacks.
Contraindications and side effects of fish oil
Fish oil is very beneficial, there is no doubt about it, but fish oil can also be harmful!
The most significant side effect is excess vitamins, particularly A and D. Their excess intake can create serious problems.
Vitamin A, which is responsible for vision, high doses can cause the opposite effect, in particular, lead to excessive dry eyes.
Vitamin D overdose may cause formations kidney stones and blood clots due to excess calcium, which settles in the kidneys and on the walls of blood vessels.
The dosage of fish oil should also be strictly observed during pregnancy, since excess can lead to malformations of the embryo.
How much fish oil to take per day
The answer is not simple and Depends greatly on the reason for use This is a food additive.
Fish oil should be taken in volume from 1 to 3 mg . However, it should be remembered that fish oil does not replace a balanced and healthy diet; its use must be accompanied by an appropriate nutritious diet.
When the need for omega-3 is related to pathological factors, the dosage of fish oil can be slightly increased (this, of course, depends on the type of pathology and, in any case, you need to consult a doctor for advice).
As for the time at which you should take fish oil, there are no exact rules. The packaging usually includes recommendations to take with meals, but it is conditional and does not require mandatory compliance.
Comprehensive information about the beneficial properties of fish oil for humans. What is the chemical and nutritional composition of the supplement in the form of capsules, what dosage is beneficial, and in what cases it can cause harm. Indeed, does consuming fish oil prevent weight loss... The answers to all these and other questions are in the article.
Since childhood, everyone has heard about the incredible benefits of fish oil, but we begin to take it of our own free will only at a more conscious age. Based on this, it would be nice to understand why this drug is good and what its features are.
Fish oil is a popular dietary supplement, which is obtained from the liver of cod or other fish of the same family. All types of fish oil contain a lot of ω-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid, vitamins A and D. In small quantities, the dietary supplement contains iron, vitamins B and C. Avocado has a similar composition for our body, read the details in the article. Previously, children were given this unpleasant “medicine” in order to avoid rickets due to a lack of calciferol. The beneficial properties of fish oil for humans are a fact that does not need confirmation.
The traditional method of storing fat is interesting: a wooden barrel was filled to the brim with fresh cod liver and sea water, and then left to ferment for up to one year. Naturally, modern production has gone far ahead in terms of sanitary standards (now fat is extracted by boiling the liver).
Why take fish oil?
According to the conclusion of a special branch of US Agriculture, a tablespoon (15 ml.) of cod liver oil contains 4080 mcg of retinol (vitamin A) and 34 mcg. vitamin D, which more than covers the daily need for these essential substances. Dietary standards for vitamin A absorption are 900 and 700 mcg. per day for men and women, respectively; for vitamin D - 15 mcg per day. The maximum intake level is 3000 mcg. for A and 100 mcg. for B. Therefore, people consuming fish oil as a source of ω-3 acids should pay special attention to the dosage and content of vitamins in their dietary supplements, and also consider their daily diet. It is obvious that different manufacturers comply with different standards for the content of useful substances in the drugs they distribute.Due to its richness in the components listed above, fish oil can be useful for the prevention of a heart attack, as well as in recovery from it, so these are especially important. Diets with the addition of cod liver oil demonstrate a beneficial effect on the treatment of psoriasis and help combat obesity and diabetes. Fish oil and its benefits for weight loss are relevant only in cases where excess weight is caused by impaired metabolism. Clarification of these circumstances requires observation by a nutritionist or other qualified expert.
Don’t forget that all the beneficial effects of taking vitamins D and A also occur while consuming fish oil. Among them are healthy skin, hair and nails, strong bones, good digestion and bowel function, and the prevention of premature aging.
Fish oil: side effects
Potential side effects mainly occur in cases of overdose of fish oil preparations. The risks of fatty acid oxidation, development of hypervitaminosis, or contamination of fat with toxins from the environment are reduced when consuming a refined product.Increased consumption of cod liver oil by pregnant women leads to an almost 5-fold increase in the risk of developing gestational hypertension. Therefore, expectant mothers must consult a doctor about taking any dietary supplements. In scientific studies of American doctors, it was noted that moderate use of fish oil will have a positive effect, but only to a certain level.
Symptoms of vitamin A overdose may include:
- Blurred vision and consciousness;
- Bone pain;
- Decreased appetite, nausea;
- Dizziness, drowsiness, irritability;
- Increased intracranial pressure;
- Deterioration of the condition of the integument and hair, cracks in the corners of the mouth and lips;
- Excessive sensitivity to sunlight and others.
Use of liquid fish oil
If you cannot stand this product, having been impressed by its unpleasant smell and taste at a young age, we bring you good news. Foreign and domestic industries have long learned to purify it, depriving it of any negative qualities. At the moment, fish oil exists in two different forms - refined and unrefined, and is also produced in special packaging (bottles, pills or capsules that do not need to be bitten). The difference between them is actually small.It mainly lies in the price, as well as more or less rapid absorption. To find out how much fish oil to drink per day, carefully read the instructions for the drug or the directions on the package. You can rely on the numbers given in this article, but remember that each drug contains its own dosages of useful substances.
Fish oil is recommended for those who suffer from vitamin deficiency, improper bone development (or for their restoration), for eye diseases, for the prevention of atherosclerosis, strengthening the immune system, according to individual prescriptions. The drug is contraindicated for allergies, including to fish products, stones in the bile and urinary tract, and thyroid dysfunction.
An alternative but similar preparation is shark liver oil, which has been used for centuries by peoples who had access to the sea. It has been used to speed up wound healing and heal the respiratory tract and digestive system. Currently, the product is still promoted as a dietary supplement, but its medicinal benefits have not been proven from a medical point of view. Some studies have found that shark liver oil may increase blood cholesterol levels, or even increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Conclusion: The benefits of fish oil for the body are confirmed and undeniable. However, it must be consumed in doses and carefully. Dishes made from fresh and canned fish will have no less positive, and sometimes even more balanced, effect. In addition, for those who are trying to lose weight, the right fats will be very helpful and should not be excluded categorically. We recommend that you read the following article on this topic -
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