How Fish Oil Can Help You Lose Weight

Fish oil is already well-researched for its action against fat accumulation, with the main omega-3 fatty acids – EPA and DHA – responsible for this anti-obesity effect.

Now, a new study, published in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry (11/2016), showed that the fatty acid EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) helps control adiposity by transforming "white fat" into "beige or brown fat." This process helps convert fat storage tissue into fat-burning tissue, breaking down fat for heat production, a process called thermogenesis.

Scientists observed that EPA transforms white fat cells into beige cells and is a thermogenic nutrient, which also inhibits fat accumulation by increasing its oxidation within the cells themselves. EPA achieves this by increasing the number of mitochondria (energy generators) in fat cells. This process also makes these cells appear beige/brown in color, instead of the usual white color that denotes fat droplets within them.

The scientists conclude the study by stating that their results suggest that EPA induces a remodeling of adipocyte metabolism by preventing fat storage and promoting fatty acid oxidation, mitochondrial biogenesis, and "beige" type markers in human subcutaneous adipocytes from overweight individuals.

Consuming oily fish (sardines, unsalted anchovies, herring, mackerel, salmon, halibut) three days a week is already known to help maintain or reduce weight. However, to obtain the same amount of EPA without regular consumption of these fish, capsules with high doses of fish oil must be used (+ of 1,000 mg/capsule).

Full article: https://www.lipotherapeia.com/the-peach-factor-blog/fish-oil-fatty-acid-epa-helps-reduce-superficial-fat-by-turning-fat-cells-beige

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