gethealthy

It seems like every time you read the news or turn on the TV they are talking about the benefits of consuming omega-3 fatty acids.   This type of fatty acid, mostly found in fish oils, has been proven to reduce the risk of certain types of diseases and conditions, such as; some forms of cancer, joint pain, other rheumatoid issues, and lessen the effects of depression and other mental disturbances.  Omega-3 fatty acids have also been known to help with some skin problems and to help ward of Alzheimer’s disease.  However, recently, it has been proven that the addition of daily fish oil supplements can benefit those with chronic heart failure a bit better than a very popular cholesterol medication.

For the study, Italian researchers were aided by the enlistment of more than 7,000 people who had been diagnosed with heart failure.  In this condition the heart becomes enlarged and eventually looses its ability to efficiently pump blood throughout the body.  Half of the participants were administered a daily capsule of omega-3 in addition to their regular medications and the other half received a placebo.  The patients were studied for about 4 years and during that time 1,981 (27%) of those taking the omega-3 fatty acids died from heart failure or were admitted to the hospital with other cardiovascular related problems. However, 29% or 2,053 patients from the placebo group died or were admitted to the hospital for heart issues.

Organizations for public health currently recommend that everyone consume fish at least twice per week.  The best fish to obtain the protective omega-3 fatty acids from are oily fish such as: salmon, mackerel, halibut, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, and anchovies.  However, fish is not the only option for obtaining your omega-3’s.  Omega-3 fatty acids can also be found in: Pacific oysters, shrimp, mollusks, Alaskan king crab, walnuts, flax seed, spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower.  However, it seems like the best way to currently get your omega-3’s is to take a supplement.  The supplement should have specified doses of EPH and DHA, and are usually free from contaminants found in fish, like mercury and PCB’s.