Benefits During Pregnancy and Childhood
Early studies suggest that
fish oil may decrease the risk of recurrent miscarriages in women with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Also,
omega-3 fatty acids (especially
DHA), may improve brain and eye development when taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding or when included in infant formula. However, keep in mind that some fish (and, therefore, some
omega-3 fatty acid supplements) may contain heavy metals and other toxins that are especially dangerous for pregnant women. Do not take an omega-3 fatty acid supplement during pregnancy without checking with your healthcare provider, who can direct you to a supplement that is safe for pregnant women.
Early evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may help children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (
ADHD) or other developmental problems, although you should not give a child an
omega-3 supplement without the approval of your child's healthcare provider.
Benefits of Omega-3 for Weight Loss
Studies with mice and rats have sometimes shown that omega-3 fatty acids may have a role in weight loss and fat loss, but human studies in this area are lacking. It is too early to tell if taking omega-3 could help people lose weight. It is important to remember that omega-3 fatty acid supplements are not free of calories or fat.
Benefits for Mental Health
Researchers have noticed that diets high in omega-6 fatty acids but low in omega-3 fatty acids (such as the typical American diet) may increase the risk of
depression or other mental health problems. Early studies suggest that taking fish oil may help
antidepressants work better and that fish oil may improve depression associated with
bipolar disorder.
Benefits for Rheumatoid Arthritis
There is growing evidence that omega-3 supplementation may be an effective part of
rheumatoid arthritis treatment. Studies suggest that it can help reduce
rheumatoid arthritis symptoms such as morning stiffness and painful or tender joints. It may be effective used alone or in combination with other medications. Some studies have also shown that people with
rheumatoid arthritis who take omega-3 fatty acids may be able to reduce their use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS).
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