The Health Benefits of Fish and Fish Oil Consumption - Essay Example

The consumption of fish is scientifically proven to help in the reduction of death from heart disease. It should be noted that fish coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death among Americans. People who consume even only one to two servings of fish each day are seen to be decreasing their overall death risk by 17% and deaths from coronary heart disease by 36%. These benefits are even more pronounced when the fish consumed are of the more oily varieties.Fish are known to contain the essential omega-3 fatty acids, two oils that are gaining wide popularity because of their health benefits.

Generally, omega-3 is classified as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and is most abundant in "oily, cold-water fish such as herring, mackerel, salmon, and anchovies." Omega-3 is essential in fetal, infant, and child neurological development. In adults, the intake of omega-3 is crucial in protecting the body against cholesterol and heart disease.However, fish consumption is also associated with the risk of mercury. It should be noted that industrialization has contaminated bodies of water which also infuses a high level of mercury in the flesh of fish.

This hazardous substance is seen to be detrimental as it had been linked to "developmental problems in newborns and heart, nervous system, and kidney damage in adult." Advising the same amount of fish consumption for pregnant women and children might also expose children to higher mercury risk. It should also be noted that frying fish in unhealthy oil might cancel the benefits. Amidst all these criticisms, health experts still strongly recommend the consumption of fish as the benefits far outweigh the risks.

I believe that fish consumption is an essential part of healthy living. It should be noted that as more and more individuals are striving to live a healthy life, fish must be integrated into their diets in order to protect themselves from heart diseases and cholesterol. Fish is a healthier source of protein than meat which is known to cause the buildup of fat in the body. It is also important to note that fish consumption also helps in maintaining healthy skin. Becoming more health-conscious, I have tried substituting fish for meat and have seen and felt the difference.