Fish Oil and Weight Loss

Fish oil, derived from the tissues of oily fish like mackerel, tuna and sardines is considered to be an important dietary source of essential fatty acids or omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 essential fatty acids are basically known for their immense health benefits, and for reducing the risk for certain life-threatening health conditions. There are basically three types of fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). While nuts and some vegetable oils like, canola, soybean, olive oil and flaxseed oil supply us with alpha linoleic acid, fish oil is known to provide the other two types of essential fatty acids, i.e. eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Among all of its health benefits, one that is most discussed these days is its effects in the phenomenon of weight loss.

Fish Oil for Regulating Weight

Consumption of excess fats and oils are always associated with weight gain and obesity. Therefore, anyone who wants to lose weight, tries to cut down the amount of oils and fats in the diet. However, it is the saturated and harmful fats, which can cause several health complications including, heart disease and excessive weight gain. But, the essential fatty acids are important for human health and nutrition and they are usually not associated with excess weight gain or obesity. Instead, the essential fatty acids, known as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil can aid in the process of losing weight.

Some studies have pointed out that the DHA found in fish oil can in fact help burn more fat, which can help to lose weight rapidly. It can also improve the effectiveness of aerobic exercises in reducing weight. The reason being the ability of fish oil to activate the enzymes that burn fats. Studies have shown that along with aerobic exercises, it can increase the rate of metabolism and hence, rapid weight loss.

Many also believe that it may in some way help to control appetite, which can reduce total calorie intake and subsequent weight loss. On the other hand, another theory suggests that as it increases the elasticity of the blood vessels, and hence, can promote blood circulation to the muscles while exercising. According to the theory, this can speed up the process of losing fat, via an increase in the delivery of lipolytic stimuli to the fat cells.

Other Benefits of Fish Oil

Fish oil is known to provide protection against heart diseases and stroke, and lower the risk for certain types of cancer. It can help to regulate the level of cholesterol in the body, and significantly reduce the risk for some pregnancy complications like, low birth weight and premature delivery. If taken during pregnancy, it can aid in brain development and reduce allergy in babies. Apart from these, it can strengthen the immune system, improve vision, and prove beneficial in reducing inflammation in arthritis and rheumatism. Fish oil can also help to alleviate inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, and prevent depression, eye disorders, schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.

It should be kept in mind that, using only fish oil may not prove effective for fat shedding, if it is not supplemented by other weight loss measures like, regular exercising and reducing the total calorie intake. Again, its overdose can cause certain side effects like, stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea and heartburn. Sometimes, its excessive intake can also interfere with the absorption of certain essential vitamins like, vitamin A, D, E and K. So, it is very important to consult a physician regarding its appropriate dosage and other aspects.