As we move into spring (and into more revealing clothing), very often losing weight or getting healthier top our to-do lists. That’s why I wanted to post about fish oil, since it can help you do both! It’s quite possibly my favorite supplement of all time. Here are just a few of the benefits you can get from taking fish oil daily:

1.  Lowered LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the body
2.  Stopping the buildup of fatty deposits (triglycerides) in the arteries
3.  Increased HDL (good) cholesterol levels
4.  Reduced inflammation in the blood
5.  Uplifted mood (fish oil is used to treat depression)
6.  Helps treat skin disorders, such as eczema
7.  Used as a treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
8.  Reduced pain (from arthritis, fibromyalgia, etc)
9.  Assists in weight loss
10.  Helps prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

And I could go on and on with everything this wonder oil does for us. Studies have been done that show that fish oil can help relieve asthma, prevent heart attacks, and positively alter behavior in children with ADHD. It’s recommended for diabetics, cancer patients, those suffering with Multiple Sclerosis, and pretty much anyone who wants to increase their brain health, heart health, maintain a good weight, and be in a good mood! Fish oil is harvested from cold-water fish, including mackerel, tuna, salmon, cod and others. By now you’re probably familiar with the buzz word “Omega 3 fatty acids,” and fish oil contains two of the most important and easily absorbed Omega 3 fatty acids out there: Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid  (DHA). Omega 3’s are essential fatty acids that our bodies cannot create without first obtaining them from food.  Mothers used to regularly give their kids cod liver oil, but these days, that tradition is long forgotten. Most Americans do not get enough of these essential fatty acids in their diet. There are few dietary sources of EPA and DHA other than oily fish. Omega-3-fortified eggs contain only small amounts, and walnuts and flaxseed don’t provide EPA and DHA but a different Omega 3 entirely (alpha-linolenic acid). There currently is no recommended daily allowance for fish oil pills, so most people don’t have a clue how much they should be taking. Dr. Barry Sears recommends the following amounts: 2 ½ grams per day if you’re healthy 5 grams per day if you suffer from diabetes, obesity, or coronary heart disease 7.5 grams per day if you have cancer or extreme pain 10 grams per day or MORE if you suffer from a neurological condition, such as multiple sclerosis