Omega 3 Fats

One of my New Year Resolutions was to experiment with Fish Oil - Omega 3 Fatty Acids!  In the process, more research!  Of course, one of my favorite sites is Cleveland Clinic!  Here is some relevant items!

Cleveland Clinic - Omega 3 Fats

The first info is a part of history!  The story ........

Early Arctic explorers noted that the Eskimos, despite their consumption of high fat and high cholesterol foods, had a very low incidence of heart disease. Scientists and physicians were stumped at this and considered it a paradox; until, that is, they looked at their diets. What they found has changed the way nutrition and health care professionals prevent and treat heart disease today.The Eskimos' diets were rich in omega-3 fatty acids.


What is good for the Eskimos is good enough for me (and I love rubbing noses!)  The diet is the key!

How are Omega 3 beneficial?

• Reduces blood clot formation. Omega-3 fatty acids act as a natural anticoagulant by altering the ability of platelets in your blood to clump together.
• Inhibits the growth of plaque. Omega-3 fatty acids help keep the lining of the arteries smooth and clear of damage that can lead to the thickening and hardening of the arteries.
• Decreases triglycerides and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). High triglyceride values and VLDL cholesterol are associated with increased risk for heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids decrease the rate at which these two substances are produced in the liver.
• May increase levels of the good cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Because omega-3 fatty acids lower triglyceride levels, they may also increase HDL, the "good" cholesterol that protects against the development of heart disease.
• Have anti-inflammatory properties. The development of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) is thought to involve your body's inflammatory response. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the production of substances that are released during the inflammatory response and in doing so, prevent substances from accumulating and sticking to the lining of the arteries.
• May lower blood pressure. Several studies have examined the effect of omega-3 fatty acids on blood pressure. Those who eat fish tend to have lower incidence of high blood pressure.

Keep arteries smooth & clear!  Reduce triglycerides!  More research to come!