New Study Shows Omega-3 Even Better for Heart Healing

Fish oilAugust 1, 2016, The American Heart Association’s journal Circulation released an article this week that should be a wake up call to thousands of doctors and cardiologists across the country on the benefits of fish oil.   Researchers reported in the journal the results of a study of almost 400 patients who had a recent heart attack.  About half were placed on high dose of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, daily for six months.  Compared to the other half of patients who did not take fish oil, the treatment group had significantly improved heart function and reduced scarring in the undamaged heart muscle.

Heart failure after a heart attack is the major predictor of long term survival.  The researchers in the study noted that the omega-3 fatty acids appear to allow the heart to contract better, and also reduce the fibrosis (scarring) in the region that is not damaged. They concluded by saying,

“the treatment of patients with acute myocardial infarction with high-dose omega-3 fatty acids was associated with reduction of adverse left ventricular remodeling, noninfarct myocardial fibrosis, and serum biomarkers of systemic inflammation beyond current guideline-based standard of care.”

The fact that omega-3 fish oil can benefits those who have suffered a heart attack is well established in most of the world.  In fact, in Europe providing fish oil supplements at the time of discharge following a heart attack is the standard of care for this condition.

Heart disease remains the number one killer of Americans.  The CDC estimates that about 610,000 people die of heart disease in the United States every year–that’s 1 in every 4 deaths. Every year about 735,000 Americans have a heart attack. Of these, 525,000 are a first heart attack and 210,000 happen in people who have already had a heart attack.  For heart and brain protection, joint pain, dry skin and many common eye problems omega-3 fish is essential for better health.  I recommend a good quality fish oil to all my patients.  Please consult your healthcare provider before taking fish oil if you are on medications or if allergic to seafood or fish.

Link to Research Study HERE

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