Salmon is widely known as a healthy food option. Many people enjoy salmon with a side of roasted vegetables or wild rice, or with cream cheese on top of a warm bagel. Like whole salmon, salmon oil has many health benefits. Here, Gabriel Patterson, Winnipeg fitness trainer and nutrition guru, shares five reasons to use salmon oil:
Manages Cholesterol
High amounts of triglycerides, which are fats found in your blood, can increase your risk of heart disease. Salmon oil can reduce triglycerides and boost healthy cholesterol levels, promoting a healthy heart and reducing your chances of suffering a heart attack or stroke.
Contains Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Your body’s inflammatory response is part of the immune system; however, if there is too much systemic inflammation, you are at risk for diseases like diabetes. Salmon oil can reduce inflammation caused by the cells in your immune system. For example, if you suffer from arthritis, where inflammation is common in joints, the oil can help alleviate joint pain. Even if you do not suffer from a chronic illness, salmon oil can ensure your joints stay healthy for years to come.
Promotes a Healthy Brain
Salmon oil is full of omega-3 fats, which are important for brain health. Early studies suggest that salmon oil can help repair neurons in the brain, which would be especially significant for those with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. While there is still more research to be done, taking supplementary salmon oil can help promote healthy brain function.
Keeps Eyes Healthy
The omega-3 fats in salmon oil also benefit your eyes. Consuming healthy fats throughout childhood helps with healthy eye development, so as an adult, you are less at risk for eye-related diseases.
Creates Better Blood Flow
Your body uses the omega-3 fats found in salmon oil to produce nitric oxide, which helps relax your blood vessels and reduce your blood pressure. These effects can be particularly helpful if you have hypertension or need to monitor your blood pressure.
In Conclusion
Salmon oil has many benefits. If you are not a fan of eating fish, Gabriel Patterson suggests picking up salmon oil capsules at your local drugstore or health food store. If you are aiming to add more good fats to your diet, consider this healthy fish as well as its oil.
Carl Clay is a health blog author who has been writing about nutrition, fitness and healthy living for over 10 years. He also loves to run, hike and bike with her wife.