Many available and inexpensive drugs are used to maintain health. For example, fish oil has been used for high cholesterol for quite some time. It can be purchased at the pharmacy in two forms: capsules or liquid form. The dietary supplement is safe and therefore available without a prescription. The substance is extracted from the tissues of sea inhabitants. Their fats contain Omega-3 acids. The level of cholesterol in the blood is the main reason for prescribing a dietary supplement (BAA).
The human body does not produce polyunsaturated fatty acids. They must be obtained in a timely manner from medications or food.
The effect of fish oil on cholesterol
Fish oil contains vitamins A, E, D and monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs): docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These substances make fish oil an indispensable anti-cholesterol agent and have a complex effect:
- reduce the level of triglycerides in the blood;
- regulate the amount of cholesterol;
- strengthen the walls of blood vessels and clear them of LDL plaques;
- reduce blood clotting;
- increase the lumen of the arteries.
Additionally, PUFAs are involved and have a beneficial effect on processes such as:
- retinal protection;
- improving blood circulation in the brain, muscle mass, and functioning of the reproductive system;
- restoration of nerve fibers;
- prevention of the development of Alzheimer's disease;
- normalization of the emotional background due to the production of serotonin;
- prevention of degenerative diseases of the nervous system;
- increasing immunity.
Watch a video about how fish oil acts on the body with high cholesterol:
Effect on the liver and cardiovascular system
Another scourge of recent decades, especially in developed countries, is high blood pressure. Unfortunately, at the moment the principle of reducing pressure has not been established by scientists. Most of all, doctors are inclined to believe that to maintain the health of the body, the correct ratio of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids is necessary. The optimal ratio is 1:1, but the actual result is 16:1. Consuming fish oil is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to improve this indicator.
As already mentioned, fatty acids affect the entire cardiovascular system, thin the blood, reduce platelet aggregation, and this is an excellent prevention of heart attacks, strokes, coronary heart disease and other heart diseases. Omega-3s are beneficial for blood vessels, which means they reduce the likelihood of atherosclerosis, varicose veins and thrombosis.
In addition, when consuming fish oil, the body produces enzymes that have a positive effect on the liver. Fish oil also cleanses the kidneys and liver, our biological filters, of waste and toxins.
Indications for high cholesterol
The drug is prescribed in the following cases:
- prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis;
- prevention of relapses after myocardial infarction;
- complex therapy of pathologies that are accompanied by an increase in the level of LDL in the blood;
- relief of ischemic lesions of the heart and brain against the background of previously diagnosed atherosclerosis.
Note! For prevention, fish oil can be prescribed if there are cases of atherosclerosis in the family or clinical history.
Benefit
There is debate in the scientific world regarding the effectiveness of fish oil in relation to various types of diseases and painful conditions. Most people take fish oil with the expectation that it will help them with the following:
- decreased blood pressure;
- reducing the risk of heart attack;
- counteracting problems with the nervous system, such as depression, psychosis, Alzheimer's disease, attention deficit disorder;
- elimination of eye problems (dryness, glaucoma, age-related retinal degeneration);
- counteracting painful periods;
- help with diabetes, obesity, kidney disease, osteoporosis, psoriasis, asthma;
- counteracting weight loss caused by certain cancer drugs.
Action for high cholesterol
Many people wonder: does fish oil really lower cholesterol? Let's try to answer this question.
Elevated triglyceride levels are a major risk factor for heart disease. Research shows that eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid help lower triglyceride levels. In this case, sometimes it is possible to achieve a reduction in concentration by as much as 20%. Long-term use of fish oil in amounts of about 4 grams per day is usually required for this result.
It also significantly reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels and increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. These two forms of cholesterol are indicators of heart health. An increase in HDL has a beneficial effect on the circulatory system, while an increase in LDL has the opposite effect. An increase in LDL is especially undesirable for those who already have high levels of this fraction of cholesterol.
If you are taking a cholesterol-lowering drug or your doctor finds it helpful to lower your triglyceride levels, taking fish oil may be a way to achieve this goal. However, if you have elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels and are having difficulty controlling them, you should consult your doctor before taking fish oil.
Effect on blood pressure
Residents of developed countries have suffered massively from high blood pressure in recent decades. This pathological condition can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Taking proper steps to lower your blood pressure is an important step to improve your health, including if you have high blood cholesterol.
Fish oil is one of the many natural products that can be used effectively to combat high blood pressure.
The mechanism of action to reduce blood pressure still remains unclear. The most likely hypothesis is that the ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 acids is important for the improvement of the circulatory system. When the ratio of foods taken is correctly shifted towards omega-3 acids, such a diet is beneficial for your circulatory system. The ideal ratio is 1:1, but in the modern diet of the average person in developed countries, this figure is about 16:1. Fish oil is an effective and inexpensive way to shift this proportion towards omega-3 fatty acids.
Other positive effects
- Ability to reduce symptoms of depression. Studies show that eicosapentaenoic acid contained in fish oil helps reduce symptoms of depression. Observations show that fish oil can be used as an additional component of complex therapy for depressive conditions. There is evidence that it helps with other nervous system disorders, including bipolar disorder and dementia.
- Countering Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD). The consumption of omega-3 acids promotes the normal functioning and development of the brain of children and helps reduce the manifestations of ADHD. In the case of depression, eicosapentaenoic acid contained in fish oil is of greatest importance. Plant-derived omega-3s did not help counter ADHD symptoms.
- Helps reduce the symptoms of arthritis. Arthritis is an inflammatory joint disease that usually occurs in old age. Thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 acids, fish oil helps in alleviating the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Clinical studies have been conducted that have proven a certain improvement in the course of arthritis when taking fish oil. Statistical observations suggest that active consumption of seafood is accompanied by a reduced risk of bone fractures in older people. This may indicate a protective role of fish oil on bone health.
Contraindications for high cholesterol
Taking fish oil for high cholesterol levels is not recommended if the patient has a history of the following indications:
- sensitivity to fish products;
- cholelithiasis and/or urolithiasis;
- increased levels of calcium in the blood;
- formation of calcifications in tissues;
- disorders of the thyroid gland;
- chronic gastrointestinal pathologies in the acute stage;
- active form of tuberculosis.
Under the strict supervision of the attending physician, omega is prescribed in the following cases:
- pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- decreased blood clotting;
- low blood pressure;
- taking oral contraceptives, antiplatelet agents, antihypertensive drugs.
The relationship between Omega 3 and cholesterol
The connection between Omega 3 and cholesterol, or rather its various fractions, has been proven by numerous studies. Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are capable of:
- strengthen the walls of blood vessels;
- reduce the amount of low-density lipoproteins (cholesterol molecules) and triglycerides (up to 35%);
- increase the level of high-density lipoproteins, reducing the atherogenicity coefficient;
- improve the lipid-cellular interaction of lipoproteins with their protein receptors - apolipoproteins;
- stimulate lipid metabolism.
Beneficial properties of Omega-3
There are three types of PUFAs: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, which is easily transformed into “good” alpha lipoproteins), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
The first two are found mainly in seafood, but for a person, especially someone who does not live on the coast, it is problematic to consume enough fish to ensure the norm of these beneficial acids. Therefore, it is recommended to take dietary supplements of deep sea fish oil in capsule or liquid form.
Reception features
For high cholesterol levels, drink 5 g of fish oil daily. If the dosage is exceeded, it is 3 g per day, prophylactic - 1-2.
The daily intake of capsules is calculated based on the concentration of PUFAs, which is indicated in the annotation. The resulting amount is divided into 2-3 doses. Take capsules during or after meals with water. The duration of the course is determined by the doctor individually - 4-8 weeks.
Liquid fish oil for cholesterol is taken 1 tablespoon per day with meals. The dosage is approached gradually - for the first 3-4 days they drink a teaspoon, then for 3 days - a dessert spoon, then take a full portion.
Attention! If a person experiences intense physical activity, the doctor may double the dosage.
Biological significance
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are called essential or essential after their important role in the growth of children and adolescents was discovered. The general name omega 3 combines several types of acids, different in structure, structure, properties, and effects on the body.
Biologically important for humans:
- Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA/EPA) is necessary for the formation of cell membranes and the synthesis of hormones. Improves memory and cerebral circulation. Dilates blood vessels, prevents the formation of blood clots. Has an anti-inflammatory effect. Supports metabolism and normal cholesterol levels.
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA/DHA) restores blood vessels and improves brain function. Prevents the accumulation of fat, prevents the deposition of cholesterol inside blood vessels. Like EPA, it is part of cell membranes.
- Alpha-linoleic (ALA) acid provides the body with the energy it needs and protects against the effects of ultraviolet radiation. Regulates the water balance of cells, preventing moisture loss. Supports fat metabolism and cholesterol synthesis.
PUFAs refer to substances that the body does not produce. Under certain circumstances, the synthesis of EPA and DKG from alpha-linoleic acid is possible. However, the conversion percentage is insignificant, 3-5%, so sources of omega 3 should be foods or dietary supplements.
Overdose and side effects
Fish oil lowers cholesterol, but it can also cause a number of side effects:
- stool disorder;
- flatulence;
- belching with a fishy taste;
- the appearance of rashes;
- change in heart rate.
If the recommended dosages are followed, side effects rarely occur, and only in cases of individual sensitivity to the active substance. In this case, you need to consult a doctor to change the drug, release form or adjust the daily dose.
Often patients, guided by the fact that fish oil reduces cholesterol levels in the blood, begin to exceed the recommended amount to achieve a quick effect. Such self-correction can lead to an overdose. Fish oil thins the blood, which increases the likelihood of bleeding. An overdose may also cause chest pain, an allergic reaction, or a feeling of heat or chills. If such signs appear, you should immediately consult a doctor.
How to choose and where to get it
Fish oil against cholesterol is an excellent remedy against the development of various negative processes in the muscles and arteries of the heart and in the vascular system . You can buy it in pharmacy chains. Also, omega 3 acids and other healthy substances can enter the body through food. Most often, treatment with fish oil occurs after purchasing it at a pharmacy or other specialized point of sale. These are capsules containing a yellowish liquid inside. You can purchase it at a very affordable price.
The easiest way to purchase it is at the pharmacy. Only the use, dosage and duration of treatment are prescribed by the attending physician. You can also include more fish products in the menu. It is recommended to choose fatty fish - mackerel, salmon, trout, tuna, sardine, cod or halibut.
There are certain recommendations that should be taken into account when choosing fish:
- It is recommended to purchase small fish, since large ones may contain a certain amount of negative substances.
- You should smell the fish; it should not stink or smell anything pungent.
- It should be dense and elastic, quickly restore its integrity and original shape after pressing with a finger.
- It should not be green or yellow inside.
Proper storage of the purchased product is also important. It can be stored fresh for no more than three days.
Does fish have cholesterol?
Does fish have cholesterol? Fish contains fat of animal origin; cholesterol in fish is contained in minimal concentration. The table shows that the most fatty substances are contained in fish such as mackerel. The least amount of cholesterol is found in cod, pike, sole, trout, herring, and pollock.
Where can I buy
In pharmacies you can find many drugs containing fish oil that lower cholesterol levels. But these supplements are cheap and have low concentrations of active substances. High-quality products have a high price and are not available to everyone. But there is a store like iHerb.com, where you can buy omega-3 supplements at a price 30-50% lower than the pharmacy price. The site also has other products, ratings and reviews from customers, convenient delivery methods, and competent support service.
Readers of our magazine can take advantage of a -10% discount on their first order. To do this, you need to enter the promotional code AGK4375 in the appropriate field or follow the direct link (for automatic activation).
Knowing how fish oil and cholesterol are related to each other, you can prevent the development of atherosclerosis, improve the condition of the nervous system, and avoid ischemic damage to the heart and brain. But before you start taking it, you need to consult your doctor so that he can help you choose the dosage and form of the active substance.
Beneficial features
Omega-3 is essential for the brain
Fish oil is known for its anti-carcinogenic properties. It not only helps reduce the risk of developing cancer pathologies, but also prevents weight loss in cancer patients. The use of the product allows you to minimize the risk of developing cardiovascular pathologies. It is used as a prophylactic against arrhythmia, which is manifested by heart rhythm disturbances. Daily use of fish oil helps lower blood pressure, improve skin condition, and alleviate psoriasis.
This product is simply necessary for patients suffering from arthritis to increase joint mobility and alleviate pain. The Omega-3 component promotes the synthesis of the hormone serotonin, which reduces anxiety and aggression. For this reason, fish oil is recommended for people suffering from depression. In addition, Omega-3 is necessary for the brain. It protects against insanity and senile dementia.
During pregnancy, women are often prescribed fish oil in addition to vitamins. It promotes the proper development of the fetal nervous system. Fish oil is an excellent immunomodulator. Its use promotes the production of prostaglandins - substances with strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Important! The daily intake of fish oil is 5 grams, and 100 grams of fish contains, depending on the type, from 3 to 10 grams of fat.
Price
The impressive range of prices for fish oil in pharmacies is due to the different values of the raw materials: the production of nutraceuticals from krill and fish meat is more expensive, and this is reflected in the cost of the finished product.
Russian companies mainly produce fish oil from cod liver, which is why the prices for their products are very affordable.
The degree of purification plays a big role in pricing. According to international environmental standards, there are three groups of nutraceuticals:
- Cheap fish oil from cod liver with a low level of purification. The most widely available option is represented by Russian-made products - for 29-30 rubles you can buy 100 capsules of 300 mg each, without additives (oil solution - at a price of 30-33 rubles per 50 ml).
Middle-class products are also not devoid of impurities, they are made from liver, but have a higher content of PUFAs - for 170-190 rubles they buy 30 capsules of 1400 mg each, they can contain antioxidant tocopherols (210 rubles are paid for 50 ml of a saturated solution).- Exceptionally purified products from krill, fish meat and cod liver with a high content of PUFAs - the Israeli company TEVA sells 100 capsules of 500 mg at a price of 998 rubles, the Russian Polaris - 30 capsules of 1 gram for 211 rubles, the Icelandic company Möller's - 250 ml of solution for 1350 rubles
