As the "bad" cholesterol, LDL poses a serious threat to your health. It is a major risk factor for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the United States. Omega-3 fatty acids offer a way for you to control your risk through diet. Making healthy choices that include omega-3s can help prevent hardening of the arteries. The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids are well documented. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration explains that you can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease by adding omega-3s to your diet. If you have a high LDL, discuss your condition with your doctor before making dietary changes.
What Is LDL?
LDL is the cholesterol circulating in your bloodstream. The higher your level, the greater the risk that it may build up on the walls of your blood vessels. This plaque formation increases your risk of developing deadly clots and blockages. A blockage in the brain can cause a stroke, whereas a blockage in the coronary arteries can cause a heart attack. Either event leads to a loss of tissue and possible death.
Omega-3 Benefits
Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease in several ways. They can reduce the stickiness of your platelets, thereby reducing the likelihood of plaque formation. If you have atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, omega-3s may help treat your condition. They may also prevent clots that can lead to heart attacks and stroke. A study published in the March 2002 issue of the "Journal of Human Hypertension" explains that LDL can cause constriction of blood vessels that may increase your risk of a deadly clot. Omega-3 can prevent the narrowing of the arteries that may facilitate plaque breaking free and forming clots.
Omega-3 Sources
Oily fish such as salmon and tuna are excellent dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids. The FDA recommends that you limit your consumption to 3 g a day. To ensure adequate intake, you can boost your consumption of fish. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish twice a week. You can also take a fish oil supplement if you are not fond of fish. Flax and canola oil are also healthy sources.
Cautions
As with any dietary supplement, there is a risk in some individuals of side effects from omega-3s, including gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and bloating. For some people, a sudden increase in fat consumption may be responsible for such effects. You should consult your doctor if you are taking medication for a preexisting health condition such as diabetes or heart disease. While beneficial, omega-3s may not be appropriate for everyone. You and your doctor can decide what is best for you.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Leading Causes of Death
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration; FDA Announces Qualified Health Claims for Omega-3 Fatty Acids; September 2004
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; High Blood Cholesterol: What You Need To Know; May 2001
- Minnesota Sea Grant; Fish Oil and Your Health; Paul B. Addis, Ph.D.
- "Journal of Human Hypertension"; Effects of LDL Cholesterol on Vascular Function; C. Rosendorff; March 2002
- American Heart Association: Lifestyle Changes and Cholesterol
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