Omega-3-Fatty Acids

In the early 1980s, studies showed that the Inuit had low rates of heart disease despite their high-fat diet rich in fish. It turns out the omega 3 fatty acids in the fish may be what protects their hearts, along with other health benefits.

Dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish oil and certain plant/nut oils. Fish oil contains both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), while some nuts (e.g., English walnuts) and vegetable oils (e.g., canola, soybean, flaxseed/linseed, and olive oil) contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).

Evidence from several studies has suggested that amounts of DHA and EPA in the form of fish or fish oil supplements lowers triglycerides, slows the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques ("hardening of the arteries"), lowers blood pressure slightly, as well as reduces the risk of death, heart attack, dangerous abnormal heart rhythms, and strokes in people with known heart disease. However, high doses may have harmful effects, such as an increased risk of bleeding. Although similar benefits are proposed for alpha-linolenic acid, scientific evidence is less compelling, and beneficial effects may be less pronounced.

Some species of fish carry a higher risk of environmental contamination, such as with methylmercury.

Benefits of Omega 3 Fatty Acids in Heart Disease and Cholesterol

Omega 3 fatty acids are poly-unsaturated fatty acids. Studies show that a diet rich in omega 3 fatty acids may help lower triglycerides and increase HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol). Omega 3 fatty acids may also act as an anticoagulant to prevent blood from clotting. Several other studies also suggest that these fatty acids may help lower high blood pressure.

It is a good decision to consume Omega 3 fatty acids as it can:

• reduce inflammation
  
• reduce blood triglyceride levels
  
• reduces the risk of non-fatal heart attacks
  
• a good source of nutrition for patients with Crohn's disease or for those who need to be tube fed after abdominal surgeries.
  
• important for healthy pregnancies
  
• improvements in morning stiffness and joint tenderness
  

Omega 3 fatty acids can be found in fish such as salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies and sardines, Flaxseed oil, Eggs and some nuts.

Reference:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-fishoil.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omega-3_fatty_acid
http://www.healthcastle.com/omega3.shtml
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fish-oil/NS_patient-fishoil