Fish oil comes from the tissue of fatty fish. Types of fatty fish include salmon, tuna, and mackerel. Lake trout, herring, and sardines are other examples of fish that produce fish oil.

Fish oil is of great interest to human beings, because it has been shown to provide myriad health benefits. As such, it is recommended by many health authorities for inclusion in a balanced diet. Fish oil is known to contain Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

Fish oil is believed to reduce the risk of heart attack. For this reason, experts in health-related fields have recommended fish that is rich in fish oil for frequent consumption. Besides reducing the risk of heart attack, there is evidence that consumption of fish oil works to reduce coronary heart disease risk as well.

Fish oil is also believed to be helpful for lowering and regulating cholesterol levels in the body. Research has also shown a correlation between the consumption of fish oil and lowered blood pressure. Though research is still underway, there is evidence to suggest that fish oil may also benefit individuals dealing with lupus, arthritis, colitis, and asthma. Some experts believe that fish oil may eventually be proven helpful in the prevention and treatment of certain cancers as well.

Not only has fish oil been shown to offer benefits in terms of physical health, but it may also be advantageous for mental health. Many studies suggest that fish oil may help to boost memory and concentration, as well as to combat depression. Some experts believe it may even be effective in treating bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder (ADD), and schizophrenia.

Though many health authorities recommend eating fatty fish to obtain the benefits unique to fish oil, many worry that doing so may compromise the health. This is because certain types of fatty fish contain high levels of mercury or other toxins. To avoid the risk of consuming potentially dangerous contaminants, some people choose to use fish oil supplements in lieu of eating fish.