How can omega-3s help prevent heart disease?

Samantha Heller, RD

Nutrition & Dietetics

Omega-3s can help prevent cardiovascular disease in the following ways:

Omega-3s reduce serum triglycerides (the fat floating in your blood, especially after a meal).
The consumption of fish or fish oil (omega-3 fats) lowers risk of death from coronary heart disease, non-sudden death from a myocardial infarction (heart attack) and sudden death.
Omega-3 fats help to keep blood clots from forming and may prevent cardiac arrhythmias.
Omega-3 fatty acids may be protective against stroke.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Fish oils, grains and lamb are good sources of Omega 3 fatty acid, a nutrient that has a lot of buzz as being beneficial in the reduction of coronary artery disease. It's also been linked in studies to helping sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis. Flaxseed oil is another good source of this acid. Much research is being done on this nutrient, assisted by the fact that the Japanese diet typically has 10 times or more of the nutrient than the American diet. Some studies have also shown a reduction in colon cancer related to Omega 3 fatty acid consumption. Not everyone is able to reap the same benefits from Omega 3's however - one study shows that women with type 1 diabetes do not have a reduction in coronary artery disease with a diet high in this ingredient.

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