We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is the Connection Between Fish Oil and Triglycerides?

By Sarah Kay Moll
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 3,214
Share

Fat not immediately used by the body is converted to triglycerides and stored for later use in fat cells. Fish oil, whether from eating fish or taking a supplement, is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have a variety of health benefits. Fish oil and triglycerides are related in that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil have been shown to reduce triglyceride levels in the body.

Too many triglycerides in the body can lead to a condition called hypertriglyceridemia. This can be caused by a diet high in fat or as a secondary effect of some diseases such as diabetes. Hypertriglyceridemia can lead to coronary artery disease, which can result in a heart attack.

The relationship between fish oil and triglycerides can be part of the treatment for an excess of triglycerides. Taking a fish oil supplement or replacing fatty meats such as hamburgers with fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce triglyceride levels. A healthy diet and regular exercise can also help manage hypertriglyceridemia. People who are overweight or obese can also focus on losing weight as part of the treatment for excess triglycerides.

There is strong experimental evidence backing the relationship between fish oil and triglycerides. Studies show that fish oil has other cardiovascular benefits such as decreasing blood pressure and slowing the hardening of arteries. Fish oil may also reduce the risk of a second heart attack in people who have already had one. Studies of people who regularly eat fish show that these people are also less likely to have a heart attack, likely because of the omega-3 fatty acid intake.

The effect of fish oil and triglycerides is dose dependent, meaning a person needs to take a certain amount of fish oil before seeing an improvement. A high dose of fish oil comes with a risk of bleeding, so people taking this supplement should consult with a physician before starting this supplement. Fish oil can be consumed as a dietary supplement, or a person can simply include more fish in his or her diet. Tuna, salmon, mackerel, and trout are among the fish highest in omega-3 fatty acids.

The relationship between fish oil and triglycerides is not the only health benefit fish oil offers, however. It has been shown to improve some symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, especially morning stiffness and joint tenderness. Fish oil may also improve bone density and help prevent osteoporosis.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-the-connection-between-fish-oil-and-triglycerides.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.