Almost everyone knows about benefits of fish oil for cardiovascular health, but not everyone is aware that fish oil is also a great weight loss helper. Here is how it works: due to its ability to improve blood vessel function fish oil also improves blood flow to exercising muscles, which means more efficient fat metabolism during exercise, which translates into weight loss.
The best part of it is that you don’t need to consume large quantities of fish – a fish oil supplement will do the job just fine. In fact, fish oil supplements may provide additional weight loss benefits as compared to eating fish. While Omega-3, the beneficial component of fish oil, is also found in plant sources like walnuts, flaxseed, canola oil and soybean oil, it is less effective for your weight loss goals when taken from these sources. Fortunately many pharmaceutical companies and supplement manufacturers offer purified fish oil capsules that are well tolerated by most people. Look for brands that have a good track record for following safety standards.
Unfortunately fish oil causes side effects in some people. The most common complaints are burping of fishy aftertaste and increased bleeding in those who take blood-thinning medication. While aftertaste issue can be fixed by storing your fish oil in refrigerator and taking the capsules with meals, bleeding issue is more serious and needs a consultation with your own doctor.
Keep in mind that fish oil will be beneficial for your weight loss only when combined with regular exercise – taking fish oil alone will not do the trick.