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.

Recent Study Analyzes Omega-6 Fatty Acids and the Risk for Cardiovascular Disease

A recent publication in the February 2009 issue of Circulation (Click here to read study)analyzes the issue regarding an intake of omega-6 PUFAs in our diet.

An increased intake of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) has been thought to reduced coronary heart disease (CHD) and increase levels of HDL (the good cholesterol). Groups have suggested a decrease in the current intake of omega-6 PUFAs is needed.

Linoleic Acid (LA) is the primary dietary omega-6 PUFA. LA must be ingested by an indvidual. Though LA is converted to useful omega-6 PUFA, it can also be metabolized to the omega-6 PUFA known as arachidonic acid (AA). AA is necessary for variety of proinflammatory process that occur within the body. Considering CHD has a proinflammatory component to it, individuals have suggested reducing the intake of linoleic Acid.

However, the publication suggests a reduction in omega-6 PUFA would more likely increase CHD and than decrease CHD.