An Australian study has found that fatty acids, which are found in fish, can help in weight loss when combined with moderate exercise.
The University of South Australia study found that daily doses of fish oil containing omega-3 fatty acids helped obese people burn off excess weight.
Researchers suggest that the fish oil increases fat-burning ability by improving the flow of blood to muscles during exercise.
The study monitored 68 overweight and obese people, divided into four groups, over three months. One group took small daily doses of fish oil and another was given sunflower oil with no other alteration to their normal diet. Both groups undertook moderate exercise programs of a 45-minute walk or run three times a week. Another two groups received either fish oil or sunflower oil but did no exercise.
The study found that those who took the fish oil doses and exercised lost an average of 2 kg (4.5 lb) over the three months. The groups that took sunflower oil, which does not contain omega-3 fatty acids, and exercised, did not lose any weight. The two groups that did not exercise also lost no weight, the study found.
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.