In recent years, health concerns like fatty liver and high cholesterol have become common among Indians, especially in urban areas. Experts say that poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, and stress are major contributors. But alongside lifestyle changes, natural supplements like fish oil are gaining popularity for their health benefits. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil has shown promising results in managing both fatty liver and high cholesterol.
Fish oil is extracted from fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel. It contains two important types of omega-3 — EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These healthy fats are not produced by the body, so they must be taken from outside sources like fish or supplements. For people who do not eat much fish, fish oil capsules are an easy and affordable option.
Doctors suggest that omega-3 from fish oil helps in reducing fat stored in the liver. In fatty liver disease, excess fat builds up in liver cells and can lead to inflammation and long-term damage. Regular use of fish oil has been linked to improved liver function and lower levels of liver enzymes, which are usually high in patients with fatty liver. Some studies also suggest that it helps in slowing the progress of liver damage.
In addition to liver health, fish oil is beneficial for heart health by controlling cholesterol levels. One of its key benefits is lowering triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood that increases the risk of heart disease. Fish oil also raises the level of HDL, known as ‘good cholesterol’, and may slightly lower LDL, or ‘bad cholesterol’. This combination supports better heart function and cleaner arteries.
Many Indian nutritionists now recommend fish oil for those with early-stage fatty liver or cholesterol problems, especially when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise. However, they also advise caution. It is important to take the right dosage — usually 1000 mg to 2000 mg per day — after consulting a doctor. People on blood-thinning medication or with seafood allergies should avoid it or take it only under medical guidance.
Fish oil is not a magic pill, but it can be a helpful part of a healthy lifestyle. For those struggling with modern lifestyle diseases, it offers a natural and easily available option to support liver and heart health. As always, prevention is better than cure — and fish oil might just be one small step in the right direction.
