Fish oils contain eicosopentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which have a regulatory effect on the body. Years ago, it was shown that fish oils and the omega-3 fatty acids may be useful in kidney disease, immune disease, cancer, arthritis, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and psoriasis, and while studies are being done, there is a lot of promising research that fish oil is beneficial to the entire body.

Skin

EPA has a great effect on the skin. It regulates oil production and increases hydration, and according to research can even slow down the signs of aging. EPA can also protect our skin against sun damage and help repair it when we have had too much sun.

Moreover, fish oil seems to help with psoriasis, which is a skin condition where dead, dry, and rough skin cells build up. Studies have been conflicted on this; however, some studies have found that taking fish oil orally benefits itching, scaling, and redness.

Brain Function

If you want to keep your brain working at optimal levels, the fish oil can help. Fish oil can help to reduce inflammation in the brain, and has been used on many patients after a traumatic brain injury towards recovery.

Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 5 million people in the U.S. and it is the sixth leading cause. For preventative measures, research has shown that adults who take fish oil, who have not yet developed Alzheimer’s, experience less brain shrinkage and cognitive decline than adults who take no fish oil.

“Rhode Island Hospital researchers have completed a study that found regular use of fish oil supplements was associated with a significant reduction in cognitive decline and brain atrophy in older adults.” – EurekAlert

Hair

Fish oil can help hair become shinier and healthier by reducing skin dryness on the scalp. It has been shown that the oils on the scalp start to lessen as we age, and our hair can become much more brittle. Omega-3s help to stop this from happening. Studies have shown that hair follicles can also be impaired when there is not enough essential fatty acids in the diet.

Depression

In countries where there is a lot of fish consumption, there is lower rates of depression. While fish oil may only have a small part to with that, it seems to be a definite contributor. One thought is that omega-3s, which make up part of cell membranes, make it easier for serotonin to pass from one cell membrane to the next.

“If levels of omega-3 fatty acids are too low…then essential chemical pathways become overwhelmed and mental disorders can occur.” – George Mason University

Type 2 Diabetes

It has been shown that fish oil supplements increase the amounts of a hormone, adiponectin, which is associated to lower the risk of diabetes. This hormone has an effect on glucose regulation and helps to tone down inflammation. This increase is not drastic, but modest in nature.

High Blood Pressure

There are many studies that show omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce blood pressure. However, the effects, like for type 2 diabetes, have been modest in nature.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Many studies have shown that fish oil supplements improve joint tenderness and morning stiffness in people who have rheumatoid arthritis. However, the benefits can be increased with the combination of inflammatory medications.

In the end, there are many other benefits of taking fish oil that are under study. Further research is needed to uncover all of the benefits; however, there is a lot of evidence that suggests that fish oil is beneficial for many different areas of our bodies, especially brain health.