Unraveling the Healing Powers of Eating Fish vs. Fish Oil Supplements

Unraveling the Healing Powers of Eating Fish vs. Fish Oil Supplements

Understanding the Benefits and Limitations

Recent research has been delving into the comparison between consuming fish and taking fish oil supplements, focusing primarily on three health concerns: heart disease, arthritis, and dementia. The study delves deep into the benefits and drawbacks of both, shedding light on their specific impacts on these three medical conditions.

Heart Disease and Fish Oil

The analysis, in relation to heart disease, indicated that fish oil supplements might not contribute significantly or even at all in preventing heart attacks and strokes. Nevertheless, it can be beneficial for those with heart failure or high triglyceride levels. The research corroborates the advice to consume 20 grams of fish daily, which could reduce the overall risk of heart disease by up to 4%.

Arthritis: A Closer Look

When it comes to arthritis, the study discovered that fish oil supplements provide benefits in reducing the severity and progression of rheumatoid arthritis. Although fish also offer this benefit, the effectiveness depends on the quantity consumed. The results imply that it’s challenging to consume the necessary amount from a single source. However, some fatty fish like mackerel and salmon provide a portion containing 3550 grams of the required amount. This portion would require a large number of supplement capsules, but it’s also difficult to eat this amount of fish every day.

Preventing Dementia and Alzheimer’s

As for dementia and Alzheimer’s, the study found significant preventive benefits for both fish consumption and fish oil supplements if the disease has not yet developed, and the patient is still in the stage of cognitive impairment. The analysis showed that consuming larger amounts of fish is associated with a decreased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Beyond Fish

The research also noted that the three main types of Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in other foods, like eggs, which contain some types more than fish. This finding opens up more dietary options for individuals who want to increase their Omega-3 intake without relying solely on fish or fish oil supplements.

Conclusion of the Study

Summing up, both fish and fish oil supplements can be beneficial depending on an individual’s health conditions and the quantity consumed. While they can help in reducing the severity of rheumatoid arthritis and the risk of heart disease and dementia, the benefits may vary and depend largely on the quantity consumed. Therefore, it’s important for individuals to evaluate their dietary habits and health conditions before deciding to rely solely on either fish or fish oil supplements.