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This Popular Supplement Boosts Lung Health, Fights Infections, and Alleviates Allergy Symptoms

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As we head into flu season with the Covid-19 Delta variant still affecting thousands, it’s more important than ever that we are prioritizing our health. Specifically, since the coronavirus and allergies can affect the respiratory system, taking preventative measure to protect your lungs is crucial. Luckily for us, research suggests that taking fish oil for lung health could not only ward off lung problems, but also slow down the aging of the vital organ.

Fish Oil for Lung Health — What the Science Says

It’s believed that fish oil is good for the lungs because it contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Your body uses fatty acids as as an energy source, and there are three types that you need — omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9. The average American diet typically contains high amounts of omega-6 and -9 fatty acids. The body can even make its own omega-9 fatty acids. However, most Americans are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids which you can only get from your diet.

When it comes to your lung health, omega-3-rich fish oil keeps them functioning in a few ways. For one, it fights inflammation, which is a major cause of lung damage and disfunction. In one Japanese study, researchers found that omega-3s helped in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Lung conditions like bronchitis and emphysema fall under the category of COPD, and it’s the fifth leading cause of death in the world.

Results from the study showed that the subjects consuming omega-3s experienced a decrease in inflammatory chemicals in their blood, as well as less lung inflammation. The subjects also took a six-minute walking test, and those who took the fish oil were able to walk further and faster.

A number of studies have also shown that taking fish oil supplements could alleviate other inflammatory lung conditions like asthma and allergies. Specifically, fish oil supplements reduced symptoms like swelling in the lungs and shortness of breath, thanks to its anti-inflammatory powers!

Fish oil may even help protect the lungs by blocking infections like pneumonia. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids specifically target an infectious bacteria called nontypeable haemophilus influenzae (NTHi). This type of bacteria is often found in lung-disease patients and frequently causes constriction and inflammation in the upper respiratory tract.

So, as we’re in the season of fall allergies, adding a fish oil supplement to your daily diet might be a good measure to take. Not to mention, it’s also said to be good for warding off conditions like Alzheimer’s, heart disease, and depression!

As always, talk to your doctor before beginning any new supplement regiment. For a brand we love, try this fish oil from Garden of Life (Buy on Amazon, $23.07).

Here’s to a healthy autumn!

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