Analysis Of The Composition Of Fish Oil And Its Properties

Fish oil is an important source of essential fatty acids such as omega 3, which improves cardiovascular and cognitive health. We review its main characteristics and properties.

The composition of fish oil  confers important benefits to human health. This food supplement has positioned itself as one of the most complete and healthy, not only for its nutritional properties, but also for its ability to prevent and treat various types of diseases.

Unlike other sources of animal fat, fish oil  stands out for its high concentration of omega 3 fatty acids, a nutrient that protects against coronary and inflammatory diseases. In addition, it has other functional components that, once assimilated, interfere with different vital functions.

What are the characteristics of the composition of fish oil? How is it obtained? Many consumers still do not know how to solve these doubts. Therefore, below we are going to see a brief analysis of its properties and some of the benefits obtained by including it as a supplement to the diet.

Composition of fish oil

Fish oil is composed mainly of triglycerides and small amounts of phospholipids, among which lectin stands out. Triglycerides, in turn, have fatty acids, particularly those called omega 3s, such as eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA).

Of its main characteristics, it is worth mentioning that they are polyunsaturated and are made up of long chains of fatty acids. Its omega 3 content ranges from 30% to 40% depending on the species used to obtain it. It should be noted that, in the same way, in the composition of fish oil there is cholesterol, about 600 mg per 100 grams. In addition, it provides vitamins A, B and D, omega 6 fatty acids and essential minerals such as calcium and iron.

How do you get fish oil?

Fish oil is obtained as a by-product in the production of fish meal or through the residues that remain after the filleting process. For its extraction, the fish undergoes a long cooking process. However, the healthy fats it contains can be obtained naturally through the direct intake of fish.

Each of the fish species can be classified according to its lipid content. Therefore, in white or lean fish there is a content of less than 2%; the semi-fats contain around 8% and the blue or fatty ones contribute more than 8%. The most used varieties are:

• Sardine.
• Anchovy.
• Mackerel.
• Tuna.
• Nice from the north.
• Salmon.
• Eel.
• Swordfish.
• Herring.
• Mackerel.
• Hake.

Fish oil properties

The lipids contained in fish oil are essential for health due to its nutritional properties. They have a linear structural unit of fats that the body cannot produce and that must be supplied through the diet.

They are part of cell membranes and carry fat-soluble vitamins. In addition, they intervene in the regulation of plasma concentration and lipids and lipoproteins. For all this, the composition of fish oil can help improve many aspects of health. Let’s see in detail its most outstanding properties.

• Helps control high cholesterol and triglycerides : regular consumption of fish oil is one of the habits that can help control high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. Thanks to its contribution of omega 3 fatty acids, it helps eliminate harmful lipids and prevents the hardening or narrowing of the arteries.
• Protects cardiovascular health : the composition of fish oil, among which its contribution of omega 3 and 6 stands out, provides a protective effect on cardiovascular health. Its assimilation not only prevents hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis, but also prevents other heart and circulatory diseases.
• Improves metabolic activity : the consumption of 6 grams of fish oil rich in EPA and DHA favors the regulation of metabolic activity. Therefore, taking this supplement supports weight loss and control of high blood sugar levels.
• Take care of visual health : the healthy fats in fish oil help prevent inflammatory processes that are related to the deterioration of visual health. Thus, including it in the diet can serve as a method of prevention of eye disorders such as age-related macular degeneration.

• Strengthens Mental Health : Adequate assimilation of DHA and EPA has interesting benefits on mental health. Therefore, adding fish oil to your regular diet can help optimize many brain processes. In general, it is recommended to improve concentration capacity and memory ability.
• Good for rheumatoid arthritis : The omega 3 that is concentrated in fish oil has an anti-inflammatory effect that benefits rheumatoid arthritis patients by reducing joint stiffness. However, it should not be considered a replacement treatment, as its effects take weeks or months to become noticeable.

Fish oil contraindications

Despite being a product of natural origin, it is essential to bear in mind that excessive consumption of fish oil can be counterproductive. Although the needs may vary depending on the state of health, age and habits of the person, in general it is recommended that their daily intake does not exceed 3 grams.

Therefore, the most advisable thing is to consume it through the fish that contain it and not through supplements. If you opt for this last option, it is essential to have the medical opinion to choose the best dose. Despite this, anyone who takes fish oil can have secondary symptoms such as:

• Nausea and belching.
• Loose stools
• Skin rash.
• Bleedings
• Halitosis.

Finally, the composition of fish oil constitutes a very important nutritional resource for the body. Therefore, taking it directly from fish or consuming it in supplements can improve health and quality of life in multiple ways. Do you already consume it?