Benefits of Fish Oil

Have you jumped on the fish oil bandwagon yet? We probably shouldn't call it a bandwagon, since it's a proven health benefit. Fish oil can be easily taken in capsule or liquid supplement form. Taking fish oil boosts your Omega-3 fatty acids, as well as Vitamin A, C, and D. Here are some of the many benefits of taking fish oil:

• Improving your immune system

• Enhancing your memory and concentration

• Reducing the risk of heart disease

• Reducing inflammation

• Strengthening your bones

• Strengthening your hair

• Decreasing the risk of certain cancers

• Improving your skin

• Preventing complications from pregnancy

• Helping with eye conditions such as glaucoma and macular degeneration

The reason fish oil is so helpful is because our bodies simply cannot produce Omega-3 oils on their own. The best way to supplement that is to eat or take fish oil. These fats can be eaten by having fish twice per week, if you prefer to get your Omega-3s directly from the source. Avoid fried fish since that reduces the nutritional benefits. The alternative is to take a fish oil supplement (as pictured above).

How to Choose a Quality Fish Oil Supplement

You want to look for a high-quality fish oil supplement. So many vitamins that you can buy off the shelf are low quality and don't give your body what it needs. The two main fatty acids in fish oil are EPA and DHA. Look for a fish oil supplement with:

• A minimum of 500 milligrams combined of EPA and DHA

• No fishy smell or taste (an indication that it has gone bad)

• Certification that only non-endangered fish species were used

If you follow these guidelines, your fish oil supplement will provide you with all the valuable benefits that Omega-3 oils have to offer.