A study by leading nutrition scientists has recently found that the regular intake of fish oil can significantly improve exercise economy and reduce feelings of exertion after a workout. More research needs to be done but it’s no wonder that so many athletes are enhancing their training regimes with this ‘liquid gold’. From a fitness perspective, there are gains to be made all around, from an enhancement of pulmonary strength, reduced inflammation and even the burning off excess weight. Throughout the history of the ever-increasing trade of health supplements, one natural product has stood out amongst avid lovers of fitness and for good reasons.
Fish oil and endurance
Endurance fitness is all about a fine balance between what you put out and the nutrition you put in. Fish oil is packed full of vitamin D, one of the most important essential vitamins for athletes, in fact a study from the journal of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise shows that this vitamin is highly necessary to increase cardiovascular athletic performance – the ‘d’ is for drive after all. The Omega-3 fatty acids present in fish oil have been proven to lead to a decreased risk of heart disease and an improvement in neuromuscular fitness which when coupled together provide significantly improved endurance.
Fat loss and muscle gains
Muscle mass aids in fat loss, turbocharging the metabolism and helping to burn calories. Fish oil is just one way that you can increase the amount of lean muscle in your body. Recent research in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition has shown how essential Omega-3 fatty acids links to the synthesis of proteins that ultimately result in lean muscle mass. The added benefits that fish oil brings in reducing inflammation within the body can also reduce the soreness of muscles, allowing for better recovery and faster muscle growth after some tough exercise.
Intakes and end gains
In order to stay in shape, it’s no use relying solely on fish oil to get you through your exercise regime, although some people claim that it will certainly help you feel less sore after a workout! Do remember to count the calories and see that your workouts match up. Trusted cardio and strength training exercises will be your best friend here, helping you to gain good health whilst also losing weight and maintaining muscle mass. It’s important to know that some science is on this oil’s side – this is a potentially powerful source of vitamins that can help you make fitness gains after a workout.
Guest Post by Jane Sandwood