Cardiovascular & Fish Oil Benefits

What are the benefits of fish oil omega-3 supplements to cardiovascular health?  There are several.  But, first, it is important to note that not all supplements are of the same quality.  Independent scientific analysis has shown that many of them contain high levels of contaminants, including mercury and PCBs. 

Avoid Cod Liver Oil

Consumers should also avoid cod liver-oil products, because they contain large amounts of vitamin A, which can be toxic.  The safest source of vitamin A is beta-carotene or other carotenoids.  The body converts them to the needed vitamin A and the rest is discarded.  Too much of the animal form of vitamin A causes the nutrient to build up in the bloodstream and all of the bodily organs are damaged, as a result.

Reduced Blood Clot Risk - Fish Oil Omega-3

Now, keeping those things in mind, you can safely take advantage of the benefits of fish oil omega-3 supplements to cardiovascular health.  The supplement is commonly recommended to people recovering from a heart attack.  It has anti-blood clotting activity, similar to aspirin, but without the aspirin side effects.  To help reduce your risk of clots that would cause a heart attack or stroke, most doctors recommend 1000mg per day.  The recommendation is higher for those people who have already suffered an attack.

The benefits of fish oil are not limited to the anti-coagulant activity.  It also inhibits platelet aggregation, a factor in atherosclerosis, where plaques build up on the inside of the arteries leading to the heart, requiring it to work hard and causing blood pressure to rise. 

Watch Omega-6 Consumption

Omega-3 fats compete with omega-6s, which are more common in the typical Western Diet.  Omega6 fats come from meats, corn oil and other sources.  They contribute to the production of inflammatory compounds.  Omega3s, on the other hand, contribute to the production of anti-inflammatory compounds.  Those inflammatory compounds negatively affect cardiovascular health and play role in the diseases that affect the heart and circulatory system.

Lower LDL, Triglyceride Level

Increase intake of omega-3 fats has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and total triglyceride levels in the bloodstream.  LDL is the bad cholesterol that sticks to and clogs the arteries.  High total triglyceride levels are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease.  Everyone over the age of 20 should have these levels checked regularly, as part of their annual physical.

Whole Body Health - Omega-3 Fish Oil/DHA

Other benefits of fish oil omega-3 supplementation have to do with the brain and the joints.  Not only do they contribute to cardiovascular health, they contribute to the health of the whole body.  Just be sure to choose your supplements wisely.  Make sure the company abides by the International Fish Oil Standards or has even higher standards of their own.

You want the benefits of fish oil.  You are exposed to enough toxins.  You shouldn’t have to worry about them being in your health supplements and you don’t have to.

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A REVIEW:

According to the Environmental Defense Fund, the consumer’s worst choice is a brand called “Omega Protein” or “Omega Pure”.  The company does not abide by the International Fish Standards or the Council for Responsible Nutrition.  High contaminant levels have been found in these products.