Does Omega 3 Fish Oil Clean Arteries?

The truth about fish oil, omega 3, and heart, revealed! Omega 3 fish oils are claimed to clean the arteries naturally over time, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

A healthy heart is essential for general well-being. At any age, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help you avoid heart disease and reduce your chance of a heart attack or stroke. It’s never too late or too early to start caring for your heart. 

One such change is incorporating omega 3 fish oil into your routine. Omega 3 or Omega-3 fatty acids are unsaturated fatty acids that have been shown to alleviate inflammation in the body. But does omega 3 fish oil clean arteries? Let’s find out!

Omega 3 fish oil and Heart

A healthy heart can pump blood more efficiently, delivering oxygen and nutrients to other regions of the body. Exercise can aid in the prevention of plaque accumulation in the arteries. Plaque is a waxy substance that clogs arteries and prevents blood from reaching the heart. If plaque builds up too much, it can block an artery. This can result in a heart attack.

Polyunsaturated fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, are a form of dietary fat. These lipids are required for the formation of brain cells and other vital functions. Omega-3 fatty acids keep your heart in good shape and protect you from a stroke. If you already have heart problems, they can also help you improve your cardiovascular health [2].

Omega-3 fatty acids are not produced by the body on their own. You must obtain them through your diet. Omega-3s are found in abundance in certain fish. They’re also found in plant foods.

Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial to your heart and blood vessels in a variety of ways [3].

  • They lower triglycerides, a form of fat found in the bloodstream
  • They lower the chances of having an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
  • They prevent plaque, a material made up of fat, cholesterol, and calcium, from hardening and blocking your arteries
  • They aid in the mild reduction of blood pressure
  • Cancer, depression, inflammation, and ADHD may all benefit from these good fats. All of the potential benefits of omega-3 fatty acids are still being discovered by health professionals

Does Omega 3 Fish Oil Clean Arteries?

The connection between fish oil and heart health began with the discovery that people who consumed a lot of fatty fish had lower rates of heart attack and stroke. These diets are abundant in polyunsaturated fats, often known as omega-3 fatty acids, which has led to the theory that these fats may be beneficial to heart health.

Most acute coronary events are triggered by plaque rupture driven by oxidative lipids, inflammation, and a fibrous tissue cap with low collagen and smooth muscle cell content.

Stabilizing and reversing susceptible atherosclerotic plaques can thus help to prevent heart attacks and strokes. Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids offer a lot of evidence for stabilizing susceptible atherosclerotic plaques and reversing atherosclerosis in this way [1].

Omega-3 fatty acids, which may be found in fatty fish like salmon, herring, and sardines, are not only building blocks for cellular membranes, but also precursors to eicosanoids, or signaling molecules. Marine omega-3 metabolites are often anti-inflammatory, but omega-6 metabolites are often pro-inflammatory [1].

Hence, from the above-stated scientific evidence, it is clear that omega 3 fish oil can help clean the arteries and improve heart health.

Does fish oil help blood circulation?

The circulatory system of the body is in charge of transporting oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Tingling, numbness, or pain in the extremities, as well as pain and cramps, can occur when blood flow is limited. The most common reason for reduced blood flow is underlying health issues. 

In many circumstances, poor heart health has an impact on how well a person’s circulatory system functions. Fortunately, certain inexpensive vitamins can help enhance blood flow and cardiovascular health.

One of the most popular heart health supplements is omega-3 fatty acids. According to studies, patients who ingest fatty fish or fish oil a few times per week had a 30% lower risk of developing heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids have been demonstrated to reduce the symptoms of atherosclerosis and inflammation [1].

All of these changes can help to enhance blood flow. Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and anchovy are excellent providers of omega-3 fatty acids. Vegans and vegetarians may find it difficult to receive adequate omega-3s from their diet alone. In certain situations, a supplement may be suggested.

What are the benefits of omega 3?

Omega 3 fatty acids are lipids that are found in both plants and marine organisms.

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are both abundant in oily fish (DHA). Meanwhile, alpha-linoleic acid (ALA) is found primarily in plant-based products like flaxseed [4].

Omega-3 is distributed in different regions of the body, but particularly in the brain, eye, and spermatozoa. People should acquire omega-3 from food sources since the body cannot create it on its own.

Omega 3 for eye health

DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, is a key structural component of the human retina. Difficulties with vision may occur if you don’t get enough DHA [5].

Getting adequate omega-3 has been associated with a lower risk of macular degeneration, one of the primary causes of permanent eye damage and blindness worldwide [6].

Omega 3 for depression

Depression is one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders that affect people worldwide. Symptoms include grief, tiredness, and a general lack of excitement for life. Distress is a common disorder that is characterized by constant worry and anxiety.

According to studies, people who consume omega-3s daily are less likely to be depressed [7]. Omega-3 fatty acids are divided into three categories: ALA, EPA, and DHA. EPA appears to be the most effective against depression of the three.

In one research, EPA was found to be as effective as a typical antidepressant medicine in treating depression [8].

Omega 3 for heart disease

The top causes of death worldwide are heart attacks and strokes. According to studies, these illnesses were exceedingly rare in fish-eating populations decades ago [9]

This was eventually connected to the ingestion of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have been connected to several heart-health benefits since then.

Despite these positive benefits on risk factors for heart disease, there is no clear evidence that omega-3 supplementation can prevent heart attacks or strokes. Numerous studies have concluded that there is no benefit associated [10, 11].

Omega 3 for ADHD in children

A behavioral disorder characterized by lack of attention, hyperactivity, and restlessness is known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) [12].

Children with ADHD had lower serum levels of omega-3 fatty acids than their healthy classmates, according to several studies. Furthermore, multiple research suggests that omega-3 supplementation can help with ADHD symptoms [13].

The omega-3 fatty acids aid in the reduction of lack of attention and the completion of tasks. Hyperactivity, impulsivity, restlessness, and aggressiveness are also lessened [7].

Omega 3 for inflammation

Inflammation is your reaction to infections and injury. As a result, it is critical to your health.

Inflammation, on the other hand, can last a long time even when there is no infection or injury. Chronic or long-term inflammation is the word for this. Long-term inflammation can play a role in practically every chronic ailment, such as heart disease and cancer [14].

Omega 3 benefits for Covid 19

Omega-3 has been linked to a variety of health problems by researchers. However, it’s not always apparent whether or not consuming more omega-3 is beneficial.

The continued global spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which generates severe acute respiratory syndrome, has created a global health emergency.

Because of its highly contagious nature and high mortality rate, every attempt has been made to prevent COVID-19 patients’ misery, including immunological dysregulation, by developing new drugs or repurposing established treatment methods.

When compared to other fatty acids that are more widespread, omega-3 fatty acids are known to be integrated throughout the body into the bi-phospholipid layer of the cell membrane, resulting in the creation of fewer pro-inflammatory mediators.

There is a lot of research going on right now about the impacts of omega-3 fatty acids and how they affect the immune system. Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that promote immune cell activation in macrophages, neutrophils, T-cells, B-cells, dendritic cells, natural killer cells, mast cells, basophils, and eosinophils [15].

FAQs

Does fish oil cause irregular heartbeats?

Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to an increased risk of atrial fibrillation, the most prevalent cardiac rhythm problem, according to several clinical studies. There are mixed reviews on the topic. You can consult your doctor before taking omega 3 supplements for the stated problem.

Is omega-3 good for your arteries?

Omega 3 prevents plaque, a material made up of fat, cholesterol, and calcium, from hardening and blocking your arteries.

Is omega-3 Fish Oil Good for circulation?

Patients who consumed fatty fish or fish oil a few times each week had a 30% lower risk of getting heart disease, according to research. Hence, this proves that omega 3 fish oil can help with better blood circulation. 

Is omega-3 fish oil a blood thinner?

Excessive fish oil consumption can prevent blood clots from forming, raising the risk of bleeding and resulting in symptoms such as nosebleeds and gingivitis.

How much omega 3 can you take per day?

The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests eating omega-3-rich fish at least twice a week. A portion is about the size of a checkbook, at 3.5 ounces (100 grams) [3].

Wrapping up

The best way to get omega-3 is from food, according to most health experts. Aside from omega-3s, whole foods provide a variety of nutrients. All of these things work together to keep your heart in good shape.

If you already have heart disease or high triglycerides, increasing your omega-3 fatty acid intake may help. It may be difficult to consume enough omega-3s through food alone. Check with your doctor to see if taking fish oil supplements is a smart option.

What’s next?

  1. Can you take Moringa and Ashwagandha together?
  2. Top 11 Supplements to Balance Hormones and make you fit

References

  1. Cawood, Abbie L et al. “Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) from highly concentrated n-3 fatty acid ethyl esters is incorporated into advanced atherosclerotic plaques and higher plaque EPA is associated with decreased plaque inflammation and increased stability.” Atherosclerosis vol. 212,1 (2010): 252-9. 
  2. Filion, Kristian B et al. “Omega-3 fatty acids in high-risk cardiovascular patients: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.” BMC cardiovascular disorders, (2010), vol. 10 24.
  3. Medline plus, “Omega-3 fats – Good for your heart”, National Library of Medicine, (2021). 
  4. National Institute Of Health, “Omega 3 Fatty Acids”, Office of Dietary Supplements, (2021). 
  5. Anderson, G J et al. “Docosahexaenoic acid is the preferred dietary n-3 fatty acid for the development of the brain and retina.” Pediatric research vol. 27,1 (1990): 89-97. 
  6. Merle, Bénédicte M J et al. “Circulating omega-3 Fatty acids and neovascular age-related macular degeneration.” Investigative ophthalmology & visual science, (2014), vol. 55,3 2010-9. 
  7. Bloch, M H, and J Hannestad. “Omega-3 fatty acids for the treatment of depression: systematic review and meta-analysis.” Molecular psychiatry vol. 17,12 (2012): 1272-82.
  8. Mozaffari-Khosravi, Hassan et al. “Eicosapentaenoic acid versus docosahexaenoic acid in mild-to-moderate depression: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.” European neuropsychopharmacology: the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology vol. 23,7 (2013): 636-44. 
  9. Leaf, Alexander. “Historical overview of n-3 fatty acids and coronary heart disease.” The American journal of clinical nutrition vol. 87,6 (2008): 1978S-80S.
  10. Kwak, Sang Mi et al. “Efficacy of omega-3 fatty acid supplements (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid) in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease: a meta-analysis of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials.” Archives of internal medicine vol. 172,9 (2012): 686-94.
  11. Grey, Andrew, and Mark Bolland. “Clinical trial evidence and use of fish oil supplements.” JAMA internal medicine vol. 174,3 (2014): 460-2.
  12. Giacobini, MaiBritt et al. “Prevalence, Patient Characteristics, and Pharmacological Treatment of Children, Adolescents, and Adults Diagnosed With ADHD in Sweden.” Journal of attention disorders vol. 22,1 (2018): 3-13. 
  13. Gillies, Donna et al. “Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents.” The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, (2012), vol. 2012,7 CD007986.
  14. Libby, Peter. “Inflammation in atherosclerosis.” Nature vol. 420,6917 (2002): 868-74.
  15. Hui, David S et al. “The continuing 2019-nCoV epidemic threat of novel coronaviruses to global health – The latest 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan, China.” International Journal of infectious diseases: IJID: official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases vol. 91 (2020): 264-266.
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