What does fish oil do for women
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Benefits of Fish Oil for Women
Cardiovascular Health: Reducing Inflammation and Lipid Levels
Fish oil has been shown to significantly reduce markers of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), in postmenopausal women. This reduction in inflammation is crucial as it lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, fish oil supplementation improves lipid profiles by decreasing plasma triacylglycerol (TG) levels and the TG/HDL-cholesterol ratio, further contributing to cardiovascular health .
Muscle Health: Attenuating Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage
Fish oil supplementation can help reduce exercise-induced muscle damage and delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in women. This effect is particularly noticeable during different phases of the menstrual cycle, where higher estrogen levels may provide additional protection to muscle cells. Although fish oil does not significantly affect muscle strength, it helps in reducing markers of muscle damage and inflammation .
Metabolic Health: Managing Lipid and Glucose Levels
In women with metabolic syndrome, fish oil can increase low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and blood glucose levels. However, when combined with soy products like kinako, these adverse effects are mitigated. The combination helps in reducing total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and improving glucose metabolism, making it a beneficial strategy for managing metabolic health .
Pregnancy Health: Impact on Gestational Diabetes
Fish oil supplementation during pregnancy has been studied for its potential to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, research indicates that fish oil alone or in combination with probiotics does not significantly lower the incidence of GDM or improve glucose metabolism in overweight and obese pregnant women. Despite this, fish oil is considered safe and well-tolerated during pregnancy 45.
Inflammatory Response: Modulating Cytokine Production
Fish oil has been found to alter leukocyte function and cytokine production, which are critical components of the body's inflammatory response. Supplementation with fish oil reduces levels of inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 (IL-1), thereby exerting an anti-inflammatory effect. This modulation of the immune response can be beneficial in managing chronic inflammation .
Physical Performance: Enhancing Muscle Strength in Older Women
In older women, particularly those with sarcopenia, fish oil supplementation combined with resistance exercise training significantly enhances muscle strength and physical performance. This combination also improves cardiometabolic health by reducing blood pressure, triglycerides, and inflammatory markers, making it a valuable intervention for maintaining physical function and overall health in postmenopausal women 78.
Oxidative Stress: Balancing Lipid Peroxidation and Vitamin E Levels
Long-term fish oil supplementation can increase plasma levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are beneficial for reducing triglycerides. However, it also increases lipid peroxidation, indicating a higher susceptibility of plasma lipids to oxidative damage. This effect underscores the importance of balancing fish oil intake with antioxidants like vitamin E to mitigate potential oxidative stress .
Obesity and Metabolic Health: Unique Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish oil, rich in DHA, has distinct effects on metabolic health in women with obesity. It increases plasma levels of omega-3 oxylipins and adiponectin, which are associated with improved metabolic health. While fish oil does not significantly alter inflammatory markers, it positively affects monocyte bioenergetics, highlighting its role in managing obesity-related metabolic dysfunctions .
Conclusion
Fish oil offers a range of health benefits for women, from reducing inflammation and improving lipid profiles to enhancing muscle strength and managing metabolic health. While it is particularly beneficial for cardiovascular and muscle health, its effects on glucose metabolism and pregnancy-related conditions like gestational diabetes are less clear. Balancing fish oil intake with other nutrients, such as antioxidants, can help mitigate potential adverse effects, making it a valuable supplement for women's health.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic