Benefits of Fish Oil (Omega-3 Fatty Acids)

Fish oil (Omega-3 fatty acids) have been shown to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease. Essentially, omega-3 fatty acids reduce the formation of plaque found in your coronary arteries. The presence of plaque in the coronary arteries places you at risk for a heart attack (myocardial infarction). The american heart assocation guidlines have recommended at least two servings of fish per week. However, fish oil supplements are available over the counter. Currently, the only FDA approved fish oil is Lovaza. Additional information can be found at the Mayo Clinic site. Or, you can click here or here to read recent scientific studies on fish oil.

Fish oil can be taken to prevent such cardiac events such as death, heart attack, and stroke. In cases of patients with increased triglycerides, even greater levels of fish oil are usually used.

Be sure to ask your physician before taking any supplements.