Fish oil is subsequently beneficial for heart health: Expert Comment

Team Udayavani, Sep 29, 2023, 9:00 AM IST

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Dr. A. Naga Srinivaas, Consultant – Interventional Cardiology, Manipal Hospital Whitefield says, “Fish oils are highly rich in omega-3 fatty acids and play a crucial role in promoting heart health. They should be considered an integral part of a heart-healthy diet rather than just a standalone solution. Omega-3 fatty acids can be obtained from various dietary sources such as fatty fish, which include salmon, mackerel, and sardines. These are recommended over supplements as they provide additional nutrient content and are well-tolerated by the body when compared to supplements.

Fish oils play multifaceted roles in cardiovascular well-being. Fish oils contribute to lowering blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of complications associated with hypertension, such as cardiac attack. They are highly effective in reducing triglycerides in the bloodstream, which are considered bad cholesterol and detrimental to heart health, and they simultaneously increase levels of good cholesterol AKA high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL plays a crucial role in secreting excess cholesterol away from arterial walls, thus reducing the risk of plaque buildup. This helps mitigate the accumulation of arterial blockages, ensuring improved blood flow and minimizing the potential for life-threatening events like heart attacks and strokes.

Fish oil exerts anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in blood vessels and the cardiovascular system. Chronic inflammation is a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Additionally, they improve heart rhythm, particularly in patients if they already have underlying heart conditions, and reduce the risk of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) which can lead to serious cardiovascular events. Thus, it is important to meet a cardiologist to get a good understanding of your heart health so that you can make adjustments in your lifestyle, including diet, exercise, and medications (in case you have any heart or other issues) to improve your heart health.”