80% of people worldwide are below cardioprotective levels of omega-3s.
Often patients will get their blood pressure measured, or have a blood test to analyze their triglycerides. EPA and DHA have been shown to have a statistically significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, a risk factor for coronary heart disease. An increased intake of EPA and DHA omega-3s has been shown to significantly reduce serum triglycerides. Additionally, there is considerable evidence for the role of omega-3s in reducing heart rate as well as heart rate variability
Further, research supports the importance of EPA and DHA for a variety of cardiovascular outcomes, including reducing the risk of coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction and cardiac death. Omega-3s also support healthy blood vessels by decreasing arterial stiffness and increasing endothelial function.
Patients with cardiovascular risk factors may experience more effect from increased EPA and DHA intake compared to others.
Research is ongoing to understand the role of omega-3s and the risk, prevention, and/or treatment of atrial fibrillation.
See resources below, or ask us about the many more reasons to recommend omega-3s for your patient's heart.
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Reduction in Cardiac Death Risk
Several recent meta analyses have shown that consumption of EPA and DHA reduces the risk of cardiac death by a statistically significant 8% and is particularly effective in patients with cardiovascular risk factors.
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Reduction In Coronary Heart Disease Risk
A recent study demonstrated that EPA and DHA consumption statistically reduced the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) events as well as CHD death by 10% and 9% respectively.
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Blood Pressure Reduction
EPA and DHA have been shown to have a statistically significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, a risk factor for coronary heart disease. This is as effective as lifestyle changes, like increasing physical activity, and restricting alcohol or sodium intake.
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Triglyceride Lowering
A large body of evidence has demonstrated a 20-40% reduction in serum triglycerides with increased intake of EPA and DHA omega-3s.
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Decreased Heart Rate
There is considerable evidence for the role of omega-3s in reducing heart rate as well as heart rate variability.
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Healthy Blood Vessels
Omega-3s support healthy blood vessels by decreasing arterial stiffness and increasing endothelial function.
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Myocardial Infarction
Recent research shows that omega-3s statistically reduce the risk of myocardial infarction (MI) by 13% and the risk of fatal MI by 35%.
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Recovery Post-MI
Emerging research shows that omega-3s have the potential to improve heart function and support recovery following a heart attack.
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Reduction in Post-Operative Atrial Fibrillation
While the role of omega-3s in the prevention or treatment of atrial fibrillation is not yet fully established, there does appear to be strong evidence suggesting a role in reducing post-operative atrial fibrillation.
