Riya Baibhawi

Mercury Levels Within Safe Limits, But Should You Eat Basa Fish

Basa Fish

<span>Basa fish</span>, also known as Pangasius Bocourti, is a type of white fish native to Southeast Asia. In recent times, it has gained wide popularity due to its affordability, mild flavour, and flaky texture. Often used as a cheap alternative to cod or haddock, it is low in calories, rich in high-quality protein, and contains small amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. However, research has shown that it may not be entirely safe to consume. Basa fish contains mercury, though it is within safe limits. Despite this, concerns have been raised about the way basa fish is farmed and the environment in which it lives, potentially making it a higher-risk food.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/world-no-tobacco-day-2025-how-safe-vaping-is-hooking-a-new-generation-on-nicotine-article-151761403" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">How “Safe” Vaping Is Hooking A New Generation On Nicotine?</a>

<h2>Factors That Can Affect Mercury Levels in Basa Fish</h2>

<ul><li>Breeding conditions: Fish can absorb chemicals and nutrients from the water in which they are raised.</li><li>Food chain: Fish accumulate mercury from the prey they eat, with mercury concentrating up the food chain.</li><li>Predatory fish: Fish that consume other fish tend to have higher mercury levels.</li></ul>Basa fish, particularly those cultivated in Vietnam, has faced import bans in the countries like United States and Canada. In 2007, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the import of basa fish due to the use of unsafe drugs and high levels of mercury. Similarly, in 2005, the Consumer Association of Canada raised concerns about banned fungicides found in imported Vietnamese fish. In India, the fish is not banned, yet the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has discouraged the import and consumption of basa fish.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/world-no-tobacco-day-2025-theme-history-and-significance-article-151758891" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">World No Tobacco Day 2025 Theme</a>

<h2>What Are The Health Benefits Of Basa Fish?</h2>

Yes. Basa fish is an excellent source of high-quality protein. It is not only rich in protein but also good for your overall cardiovascular health. Here's a breakdown of its health benefits.

Rich in Protein: Basa provides 22.5 grams of high-quality, complete protein per serving, essential for tissue repair and enzyme production.

Low in Calories: With only 160 calories per serving, it’s ideal for those managing their calorie intake.

Heart-Healthy: While lower in omega-3s compared to oily fish, basa may still help reduce cholesterol and contribute to cardiovascular health.

May Promote Longevity: Studies suggest that fish consumption is linked to a longer lifespan, although lean fish like basa have a smaller omega-3 contribution than oily fish.

The ponds used to farm catfish like basa are prone to contamination. To manage this, farmers often rely on chemical agents and drugs to control pathogens and parasites, which can impact the fish. Some studies have found that basa fish imported from Vietnam has occasionally failed to meet international safety standards. Fish from this region have been more likely to contain traces of veterinary drugs, including antibiotics, at levels exceeding legal limits.

Additionally, research found that 70–80% of catfish exported to European countries like Germany, Poland, and Ukraine were contaminated with Vibrio bacteria, a common cause of food poisoning. To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, it is essential to cook basa fish thoroughly and avoid consuming it raw or undercooked.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/basa-fish-is-a-cheap-protein-alternativebut-should-you-eat-it-article-151122680" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Basa Fish Is A Cheap Protein Alternative—But Should You Eat It?</a>

Besides mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), Basa fish is also reported to have higher-than-recommended levels of cadmium and lead in certain samples, raising concerns about farming practices and environmental contamination. Thus, concerns remain about how the fish is farmed and the conditions in which it lives, which may make it a higher-risk food.

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Basa fish, also known as Pangasius Bocourti, is a type of white fish native to Southeast Asia. In recent times, it has gained wide popularity due to its affordability, mild flavour, and flaky texture. Often used as a cheap alternative to cod or haddock, it is low in calories, rich in high-quality protein, and contains small amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. However, research has shown that it may not be entirely safe to consume. Basa fish contains mercury, though it is within safe limits. Despite this, concerns have been raised about the way basa fish is farmed and the environment in which it lives, potentially making it a higher-risk food.Also Read: How “Safe” Vaping Is Hooking A New Generation On Nicotine?Factors That Can Affect Mercury Levels in Basa FishBreeding conditions: Fish can absorb chemicals and nutrients from the water in which they are raised.Food chain: Fish accumulate mercury from the prey they eat, with mercury concentrating up the food chain.Predatory fish: Fish that consume other fish tend to have higher mercury levels.Basa fish, particularly those cultivated in Vietnam, has faced import bans in the countries like United States and Canada. In 2007, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the import of basa fish due to the use of unsafe drugs and high levels of mercury. Similarly, in 2005, the Consumer Association of Canada raised concerns about banned fungicides found in imported Vietnamese fish. In India, the fish is not banned, yet the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has discouraged the import and consumption of basa fish.Also Read: World No Tobacco Day 2025 ThemeWhat Are The Health Benefits Of Basa Fish?Yes. Basa fish is an excellent source of high-quality protein. It is not only rich in protein but also good for your overall cardiovascular health. Here's a breakdown of its health benefits.Rich in Protein: Basa provides 22.5 grams of high-quality, complete protein per serving, essential for tissue repair and enzyme production.Low in Calories: With only 160 calories per serving, it’s ideal for those managing their calorie intake.Heart-Healthy: While lower in omega-3s compared to oily fish, basa may still help reduce cholesterol and contribute to cardiovascular health.May Promote Longevity: Studies suggest that fish consumption is linked to a longer lifespan, although lean fish like basa have a smaller omega-3 contribution than oily fish.Basa Fish: Other ContaminantsThe ponds used to farm catfish like basa are prone to contamination. To manage this, farmers often rely on chemical agents and drugs to control pathogens and parasites, which can impact the fish. Some studies have found that basa fish imported from Vietnam has occasionally failed to meet international safety standards. Fish from this region have been more likely to contain traces of veterinary drugs, including antibiotics, at levels exceeding legal limits.Additionally, research found that 70–80% of catfish exported to European countries like Germany, Poland, and Ukraine were contaminated with Vibrio bacteria, a common cause of food poisoning. To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, it is essential to cook basa fish thoroughly and avoid consuming it raw or undercooked.Also Read: Basa Fish Is A Cheap Protein Alternative—But Should You Eat It?Besides mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), Basa fish is also reported to have higher-than-recommended levels of cadmium and lead in certain samples, raising concerns about farming practices and environmental contamination. Thus, concerns remain about how the fish is farmed and the conditions in which it lives, which may make it a higher-risk food.

mercury levels within safe limits, but should you eat basa fish

Health and Me

Ishita Roy

'Eat Your Skin Care' What This Online Trend Really Mean

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It started with a simple TikTok video, four large carrots shaved into ribbons, mixed with garlic, sesame oil, lime juice, coconut aminos, rice vinegar, and green onions. The resulting “crunchy and addictive” salad quickly racked up millions of views under the viral trend #EatYourRetinol. But is it just social media hype, or can what’s on your plate really show up on your face?

The trend encourages eating vitamin A-rich foods, like carrots, to support skin health from the inside out. “Skincare always starts within,” says Johanna Salazar, registered dietitian <span>nutrition</span>ist and founder of Healing Nutrition, as noted by Martha Stewart. But experts urge a balanced view: while diet can support your skin, it’s not a magic replacement for topical care.

<h4>What’s in the Carrot Salad That’s Good for Your Skin?</h4>

The base of the salad, carrots, are packed with beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, known for boosting skin cell turnover and promoting a radiant complexion. Pairing it with a fat, like sesame oil, helps your body absorb the fat-soluble vitamin. Lime juice adds vitamin C, key for collagen production, while garlic and green onion offer prebiotics that support gut health, which in turn impacts skin health.

Sesame seeds sprinkled on top bring in vitamin E and fiber, which contribute to skin hydration and a healthy glow.

“It’s a nice mix of ingredients that all play small but beneficial roles in skin support,” says Salazar.

<h4>Dermatologists Weigh In: Not a Cure-All</h4>

Lauren Kole, M.D., associate professor of dermatology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, appreciates the effort to eat for skin health—but with a word of caution.

“Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals can negatively affect the hair, skin, and nails,” she says. “But eating an excess doesn’t necessarily make your skin better.”

Kole points out that while beta-carotene from carrots is helpful, it's not strong enough to replace prescription retinol or other topical treatments for conditions like acne or hyperpigmentation. “Diet is not a substitute for proper <span>skin care</span>,” she emphasizes.

<h4>Beyond Carrots: Other Skin-Loving Foods</h4>

Experts agree that eating for your skin isn’t just about one salad. A variety of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats are essential. Salazar and Kole both recommend incorporating:

Dark-colored fruits like berries and red grapes, which are high in antioxidants that fight oxidative skin damage.

Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and chard, which are rich in vitamin C and help with collagen production.

Vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, and cauliflower, which support healthy pigmentation and skin repair.

Healthy fats including avocados, walnuts, flaxseeds, and omega-3-rich foods to reduce inflammation and maintain skin moisture.

According to Kole, diets like the Mediterranean diet—rich in plant-based foods and good fats, have shown potential skin benefits in clinical settings.

<h4>Don’t Ditch Your <span rel="noindex">Skincare</span> Just Yet</h4>

While the “Eat Your Retinol” movement has its heart in the right place, Salazar and Kole stress that no food trend should replace professional skincare or personalized advice. 

Lizzy Davis, Ph.D., a dietitian and assistant professor at UAB, advises people to approach such trends with balance.

“Cooking carrots, for example, doesn’t reduce their skin-friendly fiber,” she notes. “It can actually make them easier to digest and still beneficial.”

Davis also warns against over-relying on TikTok or Instagram for skincare advice. “Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian,” she says. “Social media is convenient, but it can’t give you a plan tailored to your needs.”

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eat your retinol

It started with a simple TikTok video, four large carrots shaved into ribbons, mixed with garlic, sesame oil, lime juice, coconut aminos, rice vinegar, and green onions. The resulting “crunchy and addictive” salad quickly racked up millions of views under the viral trend #EatYourRetinol. But is it just social media hype, or can what’s on your plate really show up on your face?The trend encourages eating vitamin A-rich foods, like carrots, to support skin health from the inside out. “Skincare always starts within,” says Johanna Salazar, registered dietitian nutritionist and founder of Healing Nutrition, as noted by Martha Stewart. But experts urge a balanced view: while diet can support your skin, it’s not a magic replacement for topical care.What’s in the Carrot Salad That’s Good for Your Skin?The base of the salad, carrots, are packed with beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, known for boosting skin cell turnover and promoting a radiant complexion. Pairing it with a fat, like sesame oil, helps your body absorb the fat-soluble vitamin. Lime juice adds vitamin C, key for collagen production, while garlic and green onion offer prebiotics that support gut health, which in turn impacts skin health.Sesame seeds sprinkled on top bring in vitamin E and fiber, which contribute to skin hydration and a healthy glow.“It’s a nice mix of ingredients that all play small but beneficial roles in skin support,” says Salazar.Dermatologists Weigh In: Not a Cure-AllLauren Kole, M.D., associate professor of dermatology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, appreciates the effort to eat for skin health—but with a word of caution.“Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals can negatively affect the hair, skin, and nails,” she says. “But eating an excess doesn’t necessarily make your skin better.”Kole points out that while beta-carotene from carrots is helpful, it's not strong enough to replace prescription retinol or other topical treatments for conditions like acne or hyperpigmentation. “Diet is not a substitute for proper skin care,” she emphasizes.Beyond Carrots: Other Skin-Loving FoodsExperts agree that eating for your skin isn’t just about one salad. A variety of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats are essential. Salazar and Kole both recommend incorporating:Dark-colored fruits like berries and red grapes, which are high in antioxidants that fight oxidative skin damage.Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and chard, which are rich in vitamin C and help with collagen production.Vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, and cauliflower, which support healthy pigmentation and skin repair.Healthy fats including avocados, walnuts, flaxseeds, and omega-3-rich foods to reduce inflammation and maintain skin moisture.According to Kole, diets like the Mediterranean diet—rich in plant-based foods and good fats, have shown potential skin benefits in clinical settings.Don’t Ditch Your Skincare Just YetWhile the “Eat Your Retinol” movement has its heart in the right place, Salazar and Kole stress that no food trend should replace professional skincare or personalized advice. Lizzy Davis, Ph.D., a dietitian and assistant professor at UAB, advises people to approach such trends with balance.“Cooking carrots, for example, doesn’t reduce their skin-friendly fiber,” she notes. “It can actually make them easier to digest and still beneficial.”Davis also warns against over-relying on TikTok or Instagram for skincare advice. “Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian,” she says. “Social media is convenient, but it can’t give you a plan tailored to your needs.”

'eat your skin care' what this online trend really mean

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We already know that <span>ultraprocessed foods</span> are linked to obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. But now, a new study published in the medical journal Thorax suggests a concerning addition to that list, <span>lung cancer</span>.

According to researchers, people who consume the highest amounts of ultraprocessed foods may face a 41% higher risk of being diagnosed with lung <span>cancer</span>, compared to those who eat the least, even when accounting for smoking and other known risk factors.

Ultraprocessed foods are industrial formulations made largely or entirely from substances not typically used in home cooking. 

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, these include artificial colorings, preservatives, emulsifiers, and chemically altered fats, sugars, or salts.

Common examples? Think sodas, chips, packaged soups, processed meats like chicken nuggets and cold cuts, instant noodles, diet soft drinks, and even some ice creams.

These additives enhance taste, shelf-life, and appearance, but at what cost?

<h4>What Does The Study Reveal About Food Choices and Lung Cancer Risk</h4>

Researchers behind the Thorax study analyzed data from over 100,000 adults who participated in the U.S. National Health and <span>Nutrition</span> Examination Survey. Each person filled out a detailed dietary questionnaire, which researchers then compared with medical records to track lung cancer diagnoses over time.

On average, people reported eating nearly three servings of ultraprocessed food a day, most commonly lunch meats and soft drinks.

Despite adjusting for smoking habits, age, sex, and other lifestyle factors, the study found a clear association between higher ultraprocessed food intake and increased lung cancer risk, particularly among people who had never smoked.

“This strongly suggests that these foods may contribute to lung cancer risk in ways beyond just smoking,” said Dr. David Katz, a specialist in preventive and lifestyle medicine and founder of the nonprofit True Health Initiative, as reported by CNN. Though not involved in the study, Katz called the findings “concerning and credible.”

<h4>Why Would Food Be Linked to Lung Cancer?</h4>

Experts believe multiple mechanisms could be behind the link.

“Industrial processing alters the food matrix,” the study authors explained, “which affects how nutrients are absorbed and may produce harmful contaminants.”

One such contaminant is acrolein. It is a toxic compound found not only in cigarette smoke, but also produced when cooking oils or fats are heated to high temperatures. 

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists acrolein as a substance that can inflame and damage lung tissue.

Packaging may also be a problem. Plastics and synthetic materials used in food storage can leach chemicals, some of which are known or suspected carcinogens.

Add to that the fact that ultraprocessed foods are often low in omega-3 fatty acids, said Dr. Tom Brenna, professor of nutrition and chemistry at the University of Texas at Austin, as reported by CNN. 

“Omega-3s spoil easily, so manufacturers tend to remove them to increase shelf life,” he explained. That’s unfortunate, because omega-3s help reduce inflammation, a key process in cancer development.

<h4>Smoking Isn’t the Only Risk Factor</h4>

Lung cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers globally, with 2.4 million new cases in 2022, according to the World Health Organization. While smoking remains the leading risk factor, experts now believe diet and environmental exposures also play a role.

Dr. Fang Fang Zhang, a professor at Tufts University’s Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, as reported by CNN, noted that while the study adjusted for smoking, the adjustment may not have been thorough enough. “Smoking needs to be measured more precisely, by cigarettes per day or years of exposure,” she said. Still, she found the link stronger in non-smokers, which makes the data all the more compelling.

<h4>What You Can Do: Eat More Whole Foods</h4>

The takeaway? While more research is needed to understand the exact biological mechanisms at play, the connection between ultraprocessed foods and cancer risk can no longer be ignored.

According to Dr. Katz, the solution lies in going back to basics. “Health and diet quality improve when people eat mostly whole, unprocessed foods,” he said, including vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and other plant-based ingredients.

Dr. Zhang agrees. “Avoid foods with long ingredient lists full of unfamiliar chemicals,” she advised. “Focus on meals made from whole or minimally processed ingredients whenever possible.”

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ultraprocessed food and lung cancer

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We already know that ultraprocessed foods are linked to obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. But now, a new study published in the medical journal Thorax suggests a concerning addition to that list, lung cancer.According to researchers, people who consume the highest amounts of ultraprocessed foods may face a 41% higher risk of being diagnosed with lung cancer, compared to those who eat the least, even when accounting for smoking and other known risk factors.What Are Ultraprocessed Foods?Ultraprocessed foods are industrial formulations made largely or entirely from substances not typically used in home cooking. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, these include artificial colorings, preservatives, emulsifiers, and chemically altered fats, sugars, or salts.Common examples? Think sodas, chips, packaged soups, processed meats like chicken nuggets and cold cuts, instant noodles, diet soft drinks, and even some ice creams.These additives enhance taste, shelf-life, and appearance, but at what cost?What Does The Study Reveal About Food Choices and Lung Cancer RiskResearchers behind the Thorax study analyzed data from over 100,000 adults who participated in the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Each person filled out a detailed dietary questionnaire, which researchers then compared with medical records to track lung cancer diagnoses over time.On average, people reported eating nearly three servings of ultraprocessed food a day, most commonly lunch meats and soft drinks.Despite adjusting for smoking habits, age, sex, and other lifestyle factors, the study found a clear association between higher ultraprocessed food intake and increased lung cancer risk, particularly among people who had never smoked.“This strongly suggests that these foods may contribute to lung cancer risk in ways beyond just smoking,” said Dr. David Katz, a specialist in preventive and lifestyle medicine and founder of the nonprofit True Health Initiative, as reported by CNN. Though not involved in the study, Katz called the findings “concerning and credible.”Why Would Food Be Linked to Lung Cancer?Experts believe multiple mechanisms could be behind the link.“Industrial processing alters the food matrix,” the study authors explained, “which affects how nutrients are absorbed and may produce harmful contaminants.”One such contaminant is acrolein. It is a toxic compound found not only in cigarette smoke, but also produced when cooking oils or fats are heated to high temperatures. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists acrolein as a substance that can inflame and damage lung tissue.Packaging may also be a problem. Plastics and synthetic materials used in food storage can leach chemicals, some of which are known or suspected carcinogens.Add to that the fact that ultraprocessed foods are often low in omega-3 fatty acids, said Dr. Tom Brenna, professor of nutrition and chemistry at the University of Texas at Austin, as reported by CNN. “Omega-3s spoil easily, so manufacturers tend to remove them to increase shelf life,” he explained. That’s unfortunate, because omega-3s help reduce inflammation, a key process in cancer development.Smoking Isn’t the Only Risk FactorLung cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers globally, with 2.4 million new cases in 2022, according to the World Health Organization. While smoking remains the leading risk factor, experts now believe diet and environmental exposures also play a role.Dr. Fang Fang Zhang, a professor at Tufts University’s Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, as reported by CNN, noted that while the study adjusted for smoking, the adjustment may not have been thorough enough. “Smoking needs to be measured more precisely, by cigarettes per day or years of exposure,” she said. Still, she found the link stronger in non-smokers, which makes the data all the more compelling.What You Can Do: Eat More Whole FoodsThe takeaway? While more research is needed to understand the exact biological mechanisms at play, the connection between ultraprocessed foods and cancer risk can no longer be ignored.According to Dr. Katz, the solution lies in going back to basics. “Health and diet quality improve when people eat mostly whole, unprocessed foods,” he said, including vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and other plant-based ingredients.Dr. Zhang agrees. “Avoid foods with long ingredient lists full of unfamiliar chemicals,” she advised. “Focus on meals made from whole or minimally processed ingredients whenever possible.”

not just cigarettes, but you food too could increase your chance of lung cancer

Supriya Ramesh

From PMS to Postpartum, Heart to Hormones: Why Fish Oil is the Ultimate Health Elixir for Every Woman at Every Stage

Credits: Canva

<span>Fish oil</span> is a star supplement loaded with omega-3 fatty acids like <span>EPA</span> and <span>DHA</span>. It offers a spectrum of vital benefits for women’s health. These extend beyond general well-being to support heart, brain and joint function, especially in areas of concern specific to women.

Fish oil, rich in omega-3s, addresses unique needs across all stages of a woman’s life. From adolescence through motherhood to menopause, fish oil supports cardiovascular, hormonal, mental and reproductive health.

Fish oil plays a major role in promoting <span>heart health</span>. According to Dr Mohit Bhatia, it helps lower triglyceride levels, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and improves blood flow, making it essential for proper cardiovascular function. He adds that it also slows the progression of cardiovascular disease.

Karan Khurana, a health expert at WishNew Wellness, concurs, saying that omega-3s in fish oil reduce triglycerides, lower blood pressure, and decrease arterial inflammation. This is particularly vital for post-menopausal women, who face a greater risk of heart disease. Regular consumption of fish oil, he says, can even lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Women facing bloating, mood swings or cramps may find some relief with fish oil. Dr Bhatia says that some evidence-based research suggests fish oil can help alleviate PMS and menstrual pain, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Khurana elaborates that omega-3s may regulate menstrual cycles and reduce cramps by lowering prostaglandin levels, which contribute to pain and inflammation. He adds that fish oil can ease common PMS symptoms such as bloating and breast tenderness.

<span>Pregnancy</span>, Postpartum and a Baby’s Brain

The benefits of fish oil carry into pregnancy too. Dr Bhatia points out the importance of DHA during this stage, saying it is vital for healthy foetal brain and eye development. It may also reduce the risk of preterm birth and help alleviate postpartum depression.

Khurana backs this up, pointing out that fish oil supplementation not only supports cognitive function in babies but also helps mothers manage postpartum depression. It plays a role in maintaining the mother’s brain health during and after pregnancy.

Post-menopause, <span>bone health</span> becomes a serious concern for many women. Dr Bhatia says that the anti-inflammatory properties of fish oil can contribute to bone health, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

Khurana adds that omega-3s enhance calcium absorption and support bone density. Fish oil, he explains, helps reduce inflammation linked to joint pain, promoting stronger bones and better mobility for older women.

Women are more likely than men to experience anxiety and depression, and fish oil might just help. Dr Bhatia explains that these fatty acids play a role in elevating mood and supporting brain function, potentially mitigating cognitive decline.

Khurana agrees, saying omega-3s support cognitive health and reduce the risk of dementia later in life. Fish oil, he says, may alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, contributing to overall mental well-being.

Dr Bhatia does not touch on it, but Khurana dives into skin benefits. He says that fish oil improves hydration, reduces wrinkles, and protects against UV damage. Its anti-inflammatory effects can ease conditions like eczema, making skin look and feel healthier.

Final Thoughts Before You Pop That Capsule

Dr Bhatia emphasises that while fish oil is a powerful supplement, it should complement a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. He strongly recommends consulting a healthcare professional before starting, especially for those on medication or with existing conditions.

Khurana suggests aiming for 250–500 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily, either through fatty fish like salmon or through supplements. Fish oil, he concludes, is a holistic powerhouse that can help women thrive at every stage of life.

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Fish oil is a star supplement loaded with omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA. It offers a spectrum of vital benefits for women’s health. These extend beyond general well-being to support heart, brain and joint function, especially in areas of concern specific to women.Fish oil, rich in omega-3s, addresses unique needs across all stages of a woman’s life. From adolescence through motherhood to menopause, fish oil supports cardiovascular, hormonal, mental and reproductive health.A Boost for the HeartFish oil plays a major role in promoting heart health. According to Dr Mohit Bhatia, it helps lower triglyceride levels, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and improves blood flow, making it essential for proper cardiovascular function. He adds that it also slows the progression of cardiovascular disease.Karan Khurana, a health expert at WishNew Wellness, concurs, saying that omega-3s in fish oil reduce triglycerides, lower blood pressure, and decrease arterial inflammation. This is particularly vital for post-menopausal women, who face a greater risk of heart disease. Regular consumption of fish oil, he says, can even lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes.Hormones, Menstrual Cycles and PMSWomen facing bloating, mood swings or cramps may find some relief with fish oil. Dr Bhatia says that some evidence-based research suggests fish oil can help alleviate PMS and menstrual pain, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.Khurana elaborates that omega-3s may regulate menstrual cycles and reduce cramps by lowering prostaglandin levels, which contribute to pain and inflammation. He adds that fish oil can ease common PMS symptoms such as bloating and breast tenderness.Pregnancy, Postpartum and a Baby’s BrainThe benefits of fish oil carry into pregnancy too. Dr Bhatia points out the importance of DHA during this stage, saying it is vital for healthy foetal brain and eye development. It may also reduce the risk of preterm birth and help alleviate postpartum depression.Khurana backs this up, pointing out that fish oil supplementation not only supports cognitive function in babies but also helps mothers manage postpartum depression. It plays a role in maintaining the mother’s brain health during and after pregnancy.Bones, Joints and the Menopause YearsPost-menopause, bone health becomes a serious concern for many women. Dr Bhatia says that the anti-inflammatory properties of fish oil can contribute to bone health, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis.Khurana adds that omega-3s enhance calcium absorption and support bone density. Fish oil, he explains, helps reduce inflammation linked to joint pain, promoting stronger bones and better mobility for older women.Better Moods and Sharper MindsWomen are more likely than men to experience anxiety and depression, and fish oil might just help. Dr Bhatia explains that these fatty acids play a role in elevating mood and supporting brain function, potentially mitigating cognitive decline.Khurana agrees, saying omega-3s support cognitive health and reduce the risk of dementia later in life. Fish oil, he says, may alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, contributing to overall mental well-being.Your Skin Will Thank You TooDr Bhatia does not touch on it, but Khurana dives into skin benefits. He says that fish oil improves hydration, reduces wrinkles, and protects against UV damage. Its anti-inflammatory effects can ease conditions like eczema, making skin look and feel healthier.Final Thoughts Before You Pop That CapsuleDr Bhatia emphasises that while fish oil is a powerful supplement, it should complement a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. He strongly recommends consulting a healthcare professional before starting, especially for those on medication or with existing conditions.Khurana suggests aiming for 250–500 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily, either through fatty fish like salmon or through supplements. Fish oil, he concludes, is a holistic powerhouse that can help women thrive at every stage of life.

from pms to postpartum, heart to hormones: why fish oil is the ultimate health elixir for every woman at every stage

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