Adequate intake of Omega-3 fatty acids has been seen to reduce the risk of heart disease and heart attacks in people.
Researchers conclude the fact that the effective compounds present in Omega-3 fatty acids lower the occurrence of cardiovascular disease, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart attacks. For such reasons, heart patients are instructed to consume the Omega-3 supplements on a regular basis. As sea fish contains a high percentage of the essential Omega-3 fatty acids, post-heart attack patients need to consume them in a larger proportion in their meal.
Why Omega-3 fatty acids keep your heart healthy?
Omega-3 fatty acids comprise of three key components
ALA (alpha-linolenic acid),DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid).
All of these acids help in eliminating the risk of heart attacks and other associated problems in the human body.
DHA helps in warding off heart diseases - The essential component DHA present in Omega-3 fatty acids is essential for your heart health. As the human body is not able to produce adequate quantity of DHA, our body can acquire it through the intake of the fish oils. Not only the DHA helps in restoring heart health but also improves the functioning of your brain. Hence, doctors suggest including fish or fish oil supplements to your diet.
Reduces the risk of atherosclerosis - Regular intake of Omega-3 fatty acids help you overcome the risk of developing atherosclerosis and arrhythmias. Both these medical conditions are strongly related to heart disease and heart attack.
Reduces production of prostaglandin - Excess production of Prostaglandins leads to inflammation in the vascular system. To overcome such scenario, one needs to intake Omega-3 fatty acids.
Regulates cholesterol level - The presence of a higher percentage of triglycerides in the blood often arises the risk of coronary artery disease that can lead to heart attacks. Intake of fish oils helps to reduce the unwanted fats and LDL from the body.
Prevents unwanted blood clotting - The components DHA and EPA present in Omega-3 fatty acids prevents unwanted blood coagulation in the body. So if the blood circulation rate remains normal, the person is at a lower risk of experiencing sudden attack or stroke.
Keeps arteries widened - Omega-3 acids increase HDL (good) cholesterol in the blood, and it also keeps the arteries and blood vessels open after bypass surgery or angioplasty procedures.
Food sources rich in Omega-3 fatty acids
Some of the best Omega-3 rich foods for heart patients are
• Trout
• Herring
• Salmon
• Sardines
• Walnut and Walnut oil
• Flaxseed
• Tofu
• Mackerel
Recommended dosage of Omega-3 fatty acids for heart patients
The optimal dose of Omega-3 fatty acids varies from person to person, and it entirely depends on on the age and severity of the medical condition. An elderly individual needs a higher amount of these fats as compared to a younger person. Moreover, if a person has already experienced heart attacks or surgeries in the past, the dosage need to be adjusted according to doctor’s guidance.
Experts recommend that a healthy adult needs to intake at least 500mg of DHA per day and a healthy child should take 250mg of DHA daily.
Share
Yes Omega 3 fatty acids can keep heart healthy.