Fish and cholestrol

Question
Hi,
  I have a question regarding eating fish. I have been recently eating fish and have realized that my cholestrol level has dropped from around 200 to 180. What was even more surprising is that my triglyceride levels dropped from 150 to 50.
  But now comes the question. I have been eating fish together with the skin and sometimes, the stomach as well (Which is usually oily). I do skip the roes if there are any.
  I was wondering whether the fish skin and the oily fish stomach has any adverse effects on cholestrol? Should I skip the fish skin and fish stomach when I eat fish?
  Thank you for your time.

Answer
Hi Eric,
That sounds great! Is there any chance you have also been practicing other health-conscious behaviors at the same time (more exercise? Less 'junk' food?) that has contributed to the decrease in cholesterol and triglycerides?

The reduction in cholesterol by 10% is very good and almost as much as can be expected by dietary changes.
The reduction in triglycerides is actually a byproduct of increasing fish oil consumption--I believe there is more fat just under the skin, which may be a benefit for you. I do not have information about fish stomach, since it's not something we often consume in the states. But no adverse effects on cholesterol that I know of.

Increased intake of fish oil can thin your blood--this can be helpful for reducing types of clots some people can suffer, but also can increase the incidence of disorders like a bleed in the brain due to thinner blood. In this country people also caution against eating too much of the same fish too often because of the possibility of heavy metal toxicity (like mercury).

It's terrific that you've reduced your cholesterol and triglycerides, but be sure that whatever you practice is in moderation to prevent other potential health problems from cropping up.

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