Fish oil supplements are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. 

Omega-3 fatty acids can often be found in certain food sources like fatty fish including salmon, mackerel, and trout. If you aren’t someone who loves seafood, you might be slightly lacking in this micronutrient, but why should you care about omega-3? 

Well, research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids can bring down blood pressure in people who already have high blood pressure, and it can lower triglyceride levels. Although there isn’t evidence to show that omega-3 supplementation directly reduces the risk for heart disease, other studies have shown that individuals who include a good amount of seafood in their diet have a lower risk of dying from heart disease [1]. 

But what about for athletes? Will supplementation benefit their performance?

Based on a systematic review of evidence, fish oil supplements do seem to improve cognition and mood. Physiologically, they also have a positive effect on cardiovascular dynamics in cyclists and can benefit muscle recovery. Fish oil can also help to reduce pro-inflammatory responses in cells.

But it’s also important to note here that this supplement hasn’t been shown to directly improve endurance exercise performance. 

Now, there aren’t any documented severe adverse side effects to fish oil supplementation either. 

So, what’s the takeaway?

Well, if you’re wondering if you need to supplement with fish oil, the first question to consider would be whether you are deficient in omega-3’s based on your daily diet alone. 

Our nutrition practitioners often recommend Nutrient Analyses to check for missing macro/micronutrients and then prescribe changes to diet or supplement additions. Don’t forget that these changes often take a few months for your body to adapt and for you to start seeing and feeling improvements. 

If you’re concerned about your omega-3 intake and other micronutrient needs, click HERE to schedule a FREE 15 minute phone call with one of our team members today!

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References: 

1. PMID = 22968891
2. MySportScience