People who consume a lot of oily fish may get enough of these fatty acids. Those who do not or only occasionally eat fish may benefit from taking a fish oil supplement to ensure adequate intake.
This article investigates the potential benefits and risks of fish oil for men. It also suggests ways for people to increase their omega-3 levels.
What is Fish Oil?
Fish oil is derived from various oily fish species, including mackerel, tuna, and herring. Manufacturers can harvest fish oil in various ways, but most techniques involve a four-stage process that includes cooking, pressing, filtering, and centrifuging the resulting oil.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are found in fish oils. These are essential fatty acids, which the body cannot produce. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are two of the most well-known omega-3 fatty acids (DHA).
Consuming fish oils and omega-3 fatty acids may provide some health benefits and aid in treating various medical conditions.
Fish Oil Benefits for Men
1. Sexual Health and Fertility
A 2017 animal study looked at omega-3 fatty acids and erectile dysfunction caused by atherosclerosis. The blood vessels narrow in this condition, which can interfere with erections. The rats in the omega-3 fatty acid treatment group had significantly better erection quality.
It is critical to remember that animal studies do not yield the same results in humans. However, an earlier study found that omega-3 could help men with erectile dysfunction.
A 2020 study of 1,694 young male participants found that those who used fish oil supplements had larger testes and higher semen volume and quality.
They also had a better-looking follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone profile. These are two important hormones that control sperm production.
2. Mental Health
According to research, people who suffer from depression may have lower blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids. In a small study of 23 people published in Psychiatry Research, omega-3 supplementation helped improve depression symptoms within 3 weeks.
Depression and memory problems have been linked. Some adult groups may benefit from DHA supplementation alone or in combination with EPA.
While research indicates that omega-3 supplementation may help prevent cognitive decline, particularly in older adults, a 2019 review notes that more research is needed.
3. Heart Health
Every year, heart disease kills one in every four people in the United States. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Eating fish may benefit heart health by lowering some risk factors for heart disease.
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood, and while the body requires them, high levels can increase the risk of heart disease.
Fish oil may aid in the reduction of high triglyceride levels and blood pressure. Eating fish may also help to significantly lower LDL cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol.