November 22, 2008
The Heart Loves Fish Oil, Really
A combination of omega 3 and statin driugs may reduce your risk of heart disease.
A Happy Confluence of Science & Nature
In a confluence of science and nature, a new study reports that combining omega 3 fatty acids, called EPA and DHA, along with a statin drug regimen prescribed for lowering cholesterol, can have a significant impact in reducing heart attacks. Omega 3 fatty acids are commonly found is fish oil.
Statins have been documented to reduce both primary and secondary cardiovascular heart attack and stroke. Omega 3 fatty acids reduce platelet aggregation, improve vascular growth, induce vasodilation, stabilize plaque and lower lipids. All of this is really a fancy way of saying that the news for those concerned with high cholesterol is good.
New Studies Note Fish Oil's Protection
Previous studies showed that omega 3 fatty acids were beneficial, but those studies had only been done on those who had already had a heart attack. The new results suggest an even more protective effect. The landmark study was reported in the medical journal "Lancet".
No clinical study until this one had evaluated the use of omega 3 fatty acids in primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. As well, no study had looked prospectively at the use of omega 3 fatty acids in combination with statins.
In the study, 18,645 Japanese patients with elevated cholesterol were given 1,800 mg of EPA omega 3 fatty acids with a statin or a statin alone for five years. In those patients receiving the combination there was a 19 percent reduction in major coronary events such as sudden death, fatal and non-fatal heart attack, angina, angioplasty, stents and coronary bypass grafts. The LDL cholesterol decreased by 25 percent. In patients with a history of coronary heart disease given the combination, there was an 8.3 percent greater reduction in major coronary events.
The importance of this study is that patients taking statins will receive an additional benefit by consuming omega 3 fatty acids to reduce cardiovascular events especially if they have experienced a previous heart attack or angina.
It is important to consume the correct dose of omega 3 fatty acids as well as a highly certified, bioavailable form without any heavy metals. One of the best formulations on the market is Omega Ultra Marine Designs for Health (1-800-847-8302) given at 2 to 3 capsules twice per day
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