A lot people all ready know that fish oil is good for their heart, brain skin and even their mood.  But now research says that it may also help one to burn body fat, especially when combined with regular exercise.

A study was conducted with 75 overweight volunteers.    These volunteers were broken down into four groups.  Group 1 was given fish oil, six one gram capsules of tuna oil a day to be precise.  Group 2 was given the fish oil and was also participated in exercise which consisted of walking three days per week for 45 minutes.  Group 3 was given a placebo oil pills.   Group 4 was given placebo oil pills and they also participated in exercise three days a week.  The groups were not on any calorie limit. They were monitored and for 12 weeks.

After twelve weeks the results shown that Group 1, the group that took the fish oil pills along with participating in regular exercise lost a significant amount of body fat.  This group also lost the most weight in pounds compared to the other groups.   On average each person in this group lost about 3 pounds.

More studies have also shown that the omega 3 fatty acids that are in fish oil may actually stimulate fat burning in our cells.   A study was conducted on this at the University of South Australia.   The type of fish oil that the research professor, Peter Howe, studies was that Standard Process Tuna Omega 3 Oil supplements.   This supplement delivers about 300 milligrams of DHA and 60 milligrams of EPA per capsule.

Professor Howe also claims that fish oil can improve blood flow to muscles.   Better blood circulation in our muscles can help people, especially those with poor circulation, which is something that usually occurs in obese or overweight people.    This increased blood circulation can help enhance the fat burning process, which is possibly the reason why fish oil along with exercise can help us to lose weight.

Of course, if losing body fat and body weight is not enough of a reason for you to consider taking fish oil, maybe these additional benefits will entice you:

Fish oil may:

  • Lessen pain and inflammation
  • Lower blood pressure and cholesterol
  • Break up blood clots
  • Help make you smarter
  • Reduce chances of cancers, (breast, colon, prostate)
  • Make you feel and look younger

Can fish oil be the magic cure for everything?  Probably not.  But if it can do some of the things that researchers claim it can do, including helping you to lose weight and burn, isn’t it worth trying?

Note:  The writer of this article is not a physician.  As always, you should discuss the use of all medications, including vitamins and supplements with your doctor before taking.