Benefits of Omega-3 for Heart Health
When it comes to heart health, omega-3 fatty acids are a superstar nutrient that you definitely don’t want to overlook. These essential fats, found in fish, fish oil supplements, and some plant-based sources like flaxseeds, have been shown to have a host of benefits for the heart and cardiovascular system.
One of the most well-known benefits of omega-3s is their ability to lower triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood that can contribute to heart disease. Omega-3s can also lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of blood clots, both of which are factors that can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
But omega-3s don’t just protect the heart by decreasing the risk of negative outcomes – they also have the ability to improve the overall function of the heart and cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that omega-3s can increase the flexibility of blood vessels, improve the ratio of good (HDL) to bad (LDL) cholesterol, and even reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Now, if you’re thinking “That’s all great, but I don’t eat fish on a regular basis,” don’t worry! While fish and seafood are the best dietary sources of omega-3s, there are plenty of plant-based options available as well. Flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts all contain omega-3s in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which can be converted to the more beneficial forms of omega-3s (EPA and DHA) in the body.
And if you’re still not getting enough omega-3s through your diet, fish oil supplements can be a great way to supplement your intake. Just be sure to choose a high-quality supplement that has been third-party tested for purity and potency like our Omega 3.
