Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of nutritionally important fats that are not naturally made by the body but provide numerous health benefits when supplemented in the diet. According to the George Mateljan Foundation, the most important omega-3 fatty acids include alpha-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. These fatty acids are termed "essential" meaning the body does not produce the acids yet requires them for the fundamental role they play in physiological function and cell membrane growth.
Protects the Heart
Heart disease describes a range of conditions impacting the heart or blood vessels, such as coronary artery disease, abnormal heart rhythm or angina. Heart disease is the primary killer of men and women worldwide and the American Heart Association notes that supplementing omega-3 fatty acids in the daily diet significantly reduces the risk of developing conditions related to heart disease.
Ventricular arrhythmia contributes to a large percentage of sudden death in those with heart disease.The American Academy of Family Physicians reported that a 2004 randomized and controlled research trial of patients with known coronary heart disease who received omega-3 fatty acid supplements over a three year time frame had a 45 percent reduction in sudden cardiac death. Either eating fish such as salmon, mackerel or tuna twice a week or taking a supplement will offer a significant source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Lowers Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, which is a condition in which the force of blood against the artery walls is higher than normal, can result from risk factors such as nutritional deficits, sedentary lifestyle and age. The University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that several clinical studies concluded that use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements lowers blood pressure in people with existing hypertension. The docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, is the primary fatty acid that offers this benefit. The results are based on using doses of 5.6g of omega-3 fish oil a day.
Triglycerides and Cholesterol
Triglycerides and cholesterol are lipids found in the blood and stored in the cells. Both stored substances are used for supplying the body with energy; however, accumulation of triglycerides or cholesterol in the blood is linked to the development of high blood pressure and heart conditions. MayoClinic.com reports clinical studies showed that consistent use of omega-3 fatty acids significantly reduces blood triglyceride levels and increases levels of good cholesterol, known as high-density lipoprotein. The American Heart Association further indicates that a benefit of lowering triglycerides and cholesterol is a slower growth rate of plaque, which causes arterial blockage. Consult a physician before using omega-three fatty acids as certain doses may cause excessive bleeding in some people.
Additional Uses
Various research trials show promising results for use of omega-3 fatty acids for improving symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, reducing cell growth in colon cancer and reducing cognitive decline associated with mental health disorders. The American Academy of Family Physicians notes studies that found rheumatoid arthritis patients treated with high doses of fish oil had improvements in joint tenderness and morning stiffness in preliminary 12-week trials. Preliminary studies reported by MayoClinic.com indicate reduction in the growth of colon cancer cells with use of fish oils; however, remission rates are still undergoing testing. Symptoms of cognitive decline and behavioral disturbance improve with supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids, according to preliminary studies of people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression.
References
- American Heart Association: Fish and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Harvard School of Public Health: The Nutrition Source
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- MayoClinic.com: Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Fish Oil, Alpha-linolenic Acid
- George Matljan Foundation: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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