A recent study found that consumption of fish oil supplements containing Omega 3 fatty acids might help in reducing the risk of heart disease and even depression.

It also associated fish oil with other benefits like boosting immunity, protection against arthritis, asthma, psoriasis, inflammation, PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) and certain types of cancer.

Experts believe that fish oil supplements could easily replace anti-depressant medicines as its intake has been found to help patients of schizophrenia, manic depression, mood instabilities and bipolar disorders.

Previous studies have confirmed its usefulness in inflammatory conditions like allergies and asthma, sinusitis, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Consumption of fish oil also leads to having better lung function, less wheezing, breathlessness and fewer episodes of waking up with chest tightness.

There are two types of fish oil supplements found, one of which is extracted from the liver called fish liver oil like cod, halibut, tuna and shark and the other is extracted from the fish body.

Fish liver oils are good sources of vitamin A and D but have a low concentration of Omega 3 fats whereas fish body oils are rich in Omega 3 fats but low in vitamin A and D.

There is a risk of blood clotting associated with its usage, so experts suggest seeking medical advice before taking these supplements.