One of the easiest ways to protect your heart is also one of the most powerful and natural. All it takes is a little omega-3 fish oil every day. The EPA and DHA omega-3s found in fish oil offer a whole host of heart health benefits and cardiovascular protection.
All-natural heart health protection.
Some of the most compelling evidence for the cardiovascular benefits of EPA and DHA omega-3s comes from three large placebo-controlled studies involving 32,000 participants. Participants who were given omega-3s daily experienced reductions in cardiovascular events of 19% to 45% compared to those who received the placebo. These findings suggest that intake of omega-3 fatty acids, whether from dietary sources or fish oil supplements, is recommended for all adults, especially those who have or are at risk for coronary heart disease.
Some of the most compelling evidence for the cardiovascular benefits of EPA and DHA omega-3s comes from three large placebo-controlled studies involving 32,000 participants. Participants who were given omega-3s daily experienced reductions in cardiovascular events of 19% to 45% compared to those who received the placebo. These findings suggest that intake of omega-3 fatty acids, whether from dietary sources or fish oil supplements, is recommended for all adults, especially those who have or are at risk for coronary heart disease.
Triglycerides are fats in the blood the body uses for energy. The problem comes when these fat levels are too high. High triglyceride levels increase your risk of heart disease, and can compound the bad effects of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Omega-3s have been shown to promote healthy triglyceride levels. Research studies have been so compelling, that in 2011 the American Heart Association issued a statement recommending daily EPA and DHA consumption for those with borderline or high fasting triglyceride levels.
Improved endothelial funtion.
From your heart to the smallest capillary, your entire circulatory system is lined with endothelial cells. These cells reduce friction as blood flows through your body, allowing blood to be pumped further with less effort. If these cells are not functioning properly, it can put unnecessary strain on your heart. EPA and DHA omega-3s have been shown to help improve endothelial function and reduce resting pulse rate.
Natural support for healthy inflammation levels.
Inflammation is the broad term for the body’s immune response to harmful stimuli (such as pathogens or irritants) or physical damage damage. Initially, it is beneficial, but inflammation can lead to more inflammation, and become selfperpetuating. Hyper-inflammation of this type is at the root of a whole host of health problems, including heart disease. More and more studies have shown that omega-3s aid the body by helping to reduce inflammation. “Omega-3 fatty acids may be both protective so that inflammation doesn’t go up, as well as therapeutic by helping inflammation go down,” said Jan Kiecolt-Glaser, professor of psychiatry and psychology at Ohio State University and lead author of a study printed in Brain, Behavior and Immunity.
FROM: The Melaleuca Journal
