There is no scientific evidence to this but something should be taken into consideration that the indigestible amount of fish oil can lead to constipation and heartburns. So, you might experience such problems if you consume it in larger quantities.
Throughout history, people have consumed fish for different reasons: as a food source or even for medical purposes.
There are four classes of fish based on their location — freshwater, marine, anadromous and catadromous.
- Anadromous fish are born in freshwater and migrate to saltwater or brackish water to mature; then they return to freshwater to spawn.
- Catadromous fish migrate from saltwater up rivers or streams but do not reproduce in freshwater.
- Freshwater species either live in lakes or travel between lakes and the ocean.
- Marines are fish that swim in the open ocean.
In addition to consuming it, fish oil is also used for medicinal purposes. Its oil comes from the liver of fatty fishes and can be found in capsule and tablet forms.
The human body needs omega-3 fatty acids for the normal functioning of internal organs; hence eating fish with high amounts of this nutrient makes sense.
A fish oil compound called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) helps reduce blood pressure and circulatory disorders, lowers the risk of heart disease, and promotes brain development in infants.
It also reduces inflammation in the body, which can come from various diseases like cancer or rheumatoid arthritis etc.
Dietary guidelines recommend eating at least two servings of fish weekly, preferably fatty or oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, lake trout, herring, and sardines because they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, DHA — docosahexaenoic acid, and EPA – eicosapentaenoic acid.
The Mayo Clinic lists other recommended fish like shrimp, canned light tuna, crab, and lobster. However, if you are not a great fan of seafood or are worried about mercury in fish, go for plant sources like walnuts or flaxseed oils. In fact, some people have replaced their morning multivitamins with fish oil in order to get the omega-3 fatty.
Confused? Well, that’s normal because there are two kinds of omega-3 — alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). The former is found in seeds, nuts, and leafy vegetable oils. The omega-3 in fish oil is the EPA; for this, you have to get your daily dose of salmon or tuna fish.
That said, food sources, supplements, and fortified foods are not a good option as their dosage may vary from one source to another. Besides, there is no standard serving size of fish oil on the market.
As to either eating fish daily is bad for you, the answer is a big NO. The truth is, fish oil is something that varies depending on the type of fish used to produce it.
Fish oil has always been at the center of many debates regarding its benefits and hazards. It may also cause some side effects like nausea, gas, swelling in the hands or feet, etc. Despite this, it’s still being recommended by doctors for its many health benefits and to help keep your heart healthy.
As an added benefit, fish oil can also improve the appearance of your hair, skin, and nails. So, if you want something done about those lifeless locks go for a supplement containing fish oil; they work great as anti-aging products as well.
Stay healthy and fit by eating fish in moderation. Here at Edibolic Kitchen, we prepare and deliver custom seafood meals for your enjoyment. Have a look at our online menu and get fast delivery of breakfast, lunch, or dinner today!