Fish Oil: A Miracle “Cure” for Menopause?
Lots of women won’t take hormone replacement because of the risk of blood clots and cancer. So it’s great to have a natural alternative that relieves many symptoms associated with menopause — fish oil.
A recent study showed that fish oil cut the number of hot flashes in half in women ages 40 – 55. The women took a fish oil supplement rich in the omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, for about eight weeks. (Lucas M, Asselin G, et al. Menopause, 2009 Mar-April;16(2):357-66.)
The same researchers also found that fish oil improved symptoms of moderate to severe psychological distress. That’s not surprising, since fish oil has been found to help relieve depression, feelings of aggression, bipolar disorder and some memory problems. Just relieving hot flashes often helps women sleep better at night, which in turn, can help improve mood. (Lucas M, Asselin G, et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Feb;89(2):641-51.)
If you’re a woman age 50 or older, you should also know that fish can improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk for heart disease, stroke and blood clots, lower your chances of developing breast or endometrial cancer, help keep bones stronger, relieve dry eyes, even help you maintain a healthy weight. If fish oil were a patented drug marketed by a giant pharmaceutical company, I’m sure it would be called a miracle “cure” for menopause!
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: Even if you eat plenty of fish, it’s hard to get enough omega-3s to have optimal health benefits. Fish oil is one of the easiest and best all around anti-aging nutrients you can take. Make sure you get a fresh, pure, molecularly distilled brand of fish oil rich in EPA and DHA.
