With the number of individuals suffering from high cholesterol continuing to rise, natural solutions to the issue continue to attract attention. Fish oils stand out as an excellent source of omega-3s, healthy fats that demonstrate an ability to improve the cholesterol profile and reduce cardiovascular risk through a number of mechanisms.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol exists as a waxy substance and serves as the base product from which the body makes sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen. It also helps to form carrier molecules called lipoproteins, which shuttle fats around the body. These carriers come in the form of low-density lipoproteins, which deliver fats through the bloodstream to the tissues that need them, and high-density lipoproteins, which does the opposite, collecting spent fats to take them back to the liver for removal. Higher levels of LDL cholesterol represent a risk factor for coronary disease. Higher levels of HDL are protective.
Fish Oil
Fish oil represents one of the riches sources of omega-3 oils. It contains both EPA and DHA, the potent long-chain omega-3s responsible for the positive effects associated with this sub-group of fats. Also known as eicosapentanoic acid and decosahexanoic acid respectively, these compounds make up 300 mg of every gram of fish oil in its natural state. EPA and DHA consumption appears to provide cardiovascular benefits in a number of ways, including a change of cholesterol profile.
Effects on Cholesterol
Omega-3 oils have a measurable effect on cholesterol profiles. Erasmus explains that the consumption of these compounds raises HDL cholesterol levels while lowering LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Higher levels of HDL can protect against heart disease by removing fats from the bloodstream while the other two markers are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attacks.
Other Cardiovascular Benefits
The EPA and DHA contained within fish oil can also boost cardiovascular health in other ways. These compounds help maintain the elasticity of arteries, prevent blood clotting, lower blood pressure and can help stabilize the electrical signals in the heart muscle. Fish oils can also promote fat loss, another indirect way that they can help coronary health.
References
- Mercola.com: Omega 3 Oils
- "Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill"; Udo Erasmus PhD; 1986
Member Comments