Benefits of Fish Oil - Essay Example

Pumpkin and flax seeds are examples of plants that contain alpha-linolenic acid that the body converts from DHA and EPA (Farooqui, 2009).

Fish oil is very beneficial to health. Omega-3 is quite essential for the good health of the heart.  It reduces inflammation of the heart and promotes muscle growth through an increase in protein synthesis (Sears, 2014). This effect is achievable when fish oil is consumed with amino acids. Another benefit of fish oil is that it enhances immunity by supporting white blood cell activity (Sears, 2014). It also enhances insulin sensitivity in muscles and promotes the delivery of nutrients across the cell membrane.

The digestion of fish oil occurs in the small intestines through the process of hydrolysis by the pancreatic lipase and bile salts to produce two fatty acids and a monoglyceride that are absorbed in the intestines and reassembled to triglycerides (Maroon, 2006). The triglycerides are transported into lymphatic channels and later into the bloodstream by chylomicrons (Maroon, 2006).

Bioavailability of fish oil
Bioavailability refers to the ability of the ingestible capsule of omega 3 fatty acids to be absorbed by the body into the bloodstream, tissues and organs. Bioavailability is important because it determines the number of capsules to be ingested for proper effect on the body (Wexler, 2007). Research demonstrates that the most bioavailable fish oil is that with the re-esterified triglyceride form. Ingestion of omega-3 supplements is more effective after a meal as compared to ingestion on an empty stomach (Wexler, 2007).
Eskimo study

The risk of heart diseases is best prevented by lowering the levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDLS) and blood cholesterol and increasing high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) in the blood. Eskimos' diet consists largely of fatty fish. It is noteworthy that obesity in this community is prevalent (Luten, 2006). Recent studies conducted on sardines and salmons, which are their main food revealed that, albeit their heavyweights, high intake of fatty omega 3 prevents some chronic diseases such as heart diseases and diabetes. This is because the high levels of omega 3 lower triglycerides, HDL and LDL cholesterol that causes heart diseases are controlled by the fatty acids present in fish. The conditions explain why the Eskimo mortality rate from heart conditions is lower as compared to other regions (Luten, 2006).

Toxicity
Fish oil is a highly concentrated calorie source. There are no known and confirmed risks of toxicity associated with its normal intake. However, studies show that excess intake may result in vitamin A and D toxicity. The presence of heavy metals and other pollutants in fish is a potential hazard though these elements are negligible. The benefits associated with the consumption of fish oil outweigh the risks (Luten, 2006).