Cholesterol is a waxy substance present in your body that plays a significant role in the production of certain hormones, vitamin D, and substances that aid digestion. However, a high level of cholesterol can lead to heart disease. This poses the question: “Can fish oil lower cholesterol?”
Understanding Cholesterol and Its Impact on Health
Cholesterol is not entirely harmful. The body needs it for various functions, but trouble begins when the level of cholesterol rises in the blood. It can combine with other substances to form plaque, which sticks to the walls of the arteries, making them narrow or even blocked.
The Role of Fish Oil in Lowering Cholesterol
Fish oil is known for its rich content of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good fats that your body needs. It is believed that these fats can help lower the level of cholesterol. But how does this work?
The Mechanism of Action
Fish oil contains two types of omega-3 fatty acids: EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid). These are said to reduce the level of triglycerides, a type of fat in your blood, by slowing down their production in the liver. This, in turn, can help lower the level of cholesterol.
Beyond Theory: What the Research Says
There have been numerous studies investigating the cholesterol-lowering properties of fish oil. Most of these studies have found that fish oil can indeed lower the level of triglycerides. However, they have also noted that it might increase the level of LDL (bad cholesterol) while raising the level of HDL (good cholesterol).
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Conclusion
So, can fish oil lower cholesterol? The answer is yes, but it does more than just lower cholesterol. It also increases the level of good cholesterol while possibly raising the level of bad cholesterol. Therefore, it is essential to have a balanced approach when using fish oil to manage cholesterol levels.