As fatty substances, cholesterol, calcium, fibrin and cellular waste travel through your bloodstream, these compounds begin to attach themselves to artery walls, and over time this buildup forms a calcified substance known as plaque. This buildup is often referred to as atherosclerosis. If untreated, plaque can narrow arteries and make them less flexible, resulting in diminished blood flow. Fish oil is touted by proponents as having an effect on plaque buildup and cholesterol levels. While it is possible to increase the rate of atherosclerosis through dietary sources, scientific evidence suggests fish oil does not cause plaque buildup, but may actually help remove and prevent deposit accumulation.
Fish Oil Active Compounds
The primary active compounds in fish oil include omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA. MayoClinic.com reports preliminary studies have shown evidence these compounds may help reduce the risk of heart attack, abnormal heart rhythms and stroke among those with cardiovascular disease. The active compounds in fish oil may be consumed in supplement form and in dietary sources such as cold-water fish.
Effects of Omega-3 on Cholesterol and Triglycerides
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports those who consume a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids have elevated HDL, or healthy, cholesterol levels. The Food and Drug Administration has approved fish oil for the reduction of triglyceride levels, as this supplement can reduce triglyceride by 20 to 50 percent. While fish oil supplementation is not as effective as prescription cholesterol and triglyceride-lowering medications, scientific evidence suggests it supports natural elimination and prevention of triglyceride and cholesterol buildup in arteries.
Effects on Plaque
National Jewish Health suggests the primary active compounds of fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids, may hinder the development of plaque buildup. The University of Maryland Medical Center supports this claim by stating fish oil appears to treat and prevent atherosclerosis by inhibiting the development of calcium deposits, or plaque. The scientific community is investigating the reasons as to why fish oil protects the arteries.
Recommended Intake
To treat high cholesterol, consume 2 to 4 g fish oil per day. To treat and prevent the progression of plaque buildup, take 6 g of fish oil per day for six months, and then reduce the dosage to 3 g per day thereafter. Discuss the appropriate dosage for you with your physician, especially if you are on medications.
References
- University of Chicago Medical Center: Atherosclerosis
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Atherosclerosis -- All Information; David C. Dugdale, et al.; May 2009
- National Jewish Health; Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acids; Brett Fenster, Andrew Freeman; February 2010
- MedlinePlus; Fish Oil; February 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Omega-3 Fatty Acids; Steven D. Ehrlich; June 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Fish Oil, Alpha-Linolenic Acid; July 2011
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