Omega-3 Benefits
Omega-3 fatty acids benefit the hearts of healthy people as well as those who have cardiovascular disease.
In 2002, the American Heart Association (AHA) released a statement on the effects of Omega-3 fatty acids on heart function (including antiarrhythmic effects), hemodynamics (cardiac mechanics) and arterial endothelial function.
Large-scale epidemiologic studies suggest that people at risk for coronary heart disease benefit from consuming Omega-3 fatty acids. Particularly those from fatty fish like trout, mackerel, tuna and salmon help:
- Decrease risk of arrhythmias, which can lead to sudden cardiac death
- Decrease triglyceride levels
- Decrease growth rate of atherosclerotic plaque
- Lower blood pressure (slightly)
What Your Patients Need to Know…
All Fish Oil Supplements are NOT the Same
According to the American Heart Association:
“Taking EPA+DHA ranging from 0.5 to 1.8 grams per day (either as fatty fish or supplements) significantly reduces deaths from heart disease and all causes.”
“Clinical trials have shown that Omega-3 fatty acid supplements can reduce cardiovascular events (death, non-fatal heart attacks, non-fatal strokes).”
“Coronary artery disease patients may not be able to get enough Omega-3 by diet alone. These people may want to talk to their doctor about taking a supplement.”
“Supplements also could help people with high triglycerides, who need even larger doses.”
Article at www.americanheart.org
Publication at circ.ahajournals.org
Besides AHA, regulatory bodies FDA and USDA have also made official recommendations for daily Omega-3 consumption.
According to American College of Cardiology Foundation’s Expert Consensus Document:
“Omega-3 fatty acids reduce cardiovascular events, sudden death, and overall mortality.”
“Omega-3 fatty acids may also affect CHD outcomes by decreasing triglyceride levels, ventricular arrhythmias, decreasing fibrinogen levels and platelet counts, modestly reducing blood pressures, and decreasing cell proliferation.”
“Omega-3 fatty acids have been tested in several secondary prevention trials. The GISSI-Prevenzione study is the largest of the controlled trials investigating omega-3 fatty acid supplements (1 g per day) and CHD risk. In this trial, total mortality was reduced by 20% and sudden death by 45%”
Source: Vogel, JH. et al. J. Am. Coll CardioL. 2005 July 5; 46(1): 184 – 221.
