High blood pressure, or hypertension, and is diagnosed when your blood pressure readings are consistently above 140/90. The American Heart Association states that over 74 million adults in the United States have been diagnosed with high blood pressure as of 2010. Fish oil is a healthy form of fat that has been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease and lower blood pressure.
Significance
Eating healthy diet is one of the most important things that you can do to prevent chronic disease and increase your overall health. Your diet should include the nutrients that your body needs and should avoid foods high in saturated fat, sodium and trans fats and foods that are highly processed, because these foods contribute to an unhealthy weight and can increase your risk for heart disease. Fish oil contains a form of fat called omega-3 fatty acids which are essential nutrients and have been shown to lower the risk of heart disease.
Benefits
Omega-3 fatty acids are used by your body for proper brain function and are also used in cell membranes throughout your body. The University of Maryland Medical Center cites several studies that have demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acids help decrease inflammation and reduce the risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association adds that omega-3 fatty acids decrease the risk of arrhythmias, decrease triglyceride levels, slow the growth of atherosclerotic plaque and lower blood pressure.
Recommendations
The Harvard School of Public Health recommends that you eat fish at least two times per week to get the benefits of omega-3 fish oil in your diet. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, herring, lake trout, sardines and albacore tuna are the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids. It is best to get most of your fish oil through your diet, but a fish oil supplement is also beneficial.
Considerations
Hypertension is caused by many factors, including genetics, poor diet and lack of exercise. Fish oil is a natural essential nutrient that your body needs to function properly. If you include it in your diet, you may experience positive effects on your blood pressure readings, but it may need to be combined with other treatment methods like medication and healthy lifestyle choices.
Prevention
High blood pressure is a preventable form of heart disease. To prevent heart disease, you should focus your diet on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and healthy oils and avoid foods high in saturated fat, trans fat and sodium. In addition, you should engage in physical activity most days of the week to burn calories and decrease your body weight, which can also contribute to a healthier heart and lower blood pressure.
Member Comments