Omega-3’s for Heart Health

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Omega-3’s for Heart Health

Foods that are high in Omega-3 fatty acids can greatly benefit individuals who are at high risk for or have already been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women, and increasing your intake of Omega-3’s can reduce risk factors such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Omega-3’s lower the level of triglycerides, or fats, in the blood and lower the risk of heart attack, abnormal heart rhythms, and death. They also slow the development of plaque and blood clots and prevent hardening of the arteries.

One fish, two fish. Fish oil contains high amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids, but certain types pack more of a punch. Look for more fatty and dark fish. Some examples are salmon, mackerel, herring, trout, tuna, and sardines. The American Heart Association recommends eating a 3.5 ounce serving at least twice a week. Try these healthy fish recipes from EatingWell.com.

Check Your Sources. Although it is one of the best, fish is not the only source for Omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed and flax oil, canola oil, soybeans and soybean oil, pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil, walnuts and dark green leafy vegetables can also provide you with these essential acids.

What about pill or concentrated form? Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil are also available in tablet form, which adults can take once daily or as recommended by a doctor. Flaxseed, flax oil, krill and other fish oils are also available in concentrated form. Be sure to keep these refrigerated!

Oh, the benefits! Consuming omega-3’s has also been shown to benefit people with diabetes, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, depression, bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder, asthma, colon cancer, breast cancer and prostate cancer.

Talk to your doctor about how fish oil can help you, and be sure to ask about possible interactions with your other medications. The effects of some blood-thinning medications, for instance, may be increased by omega-3 fatty acids.

If you would like more information on heart health and the benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids, contact the Aventura Center for Cardiac and Vascular Medicine. For a physician referral, visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse® at 1-888-256-7692.

Sources:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (UMM)

Heart Disease Facts (CDC)

Fish and Omega-3 Fatty Acids (American Heart Association)

The Symptoms of a Heart Attack