DHA supplements are certainly something you need to take into account, if you’re interested in avoiding heart problems. DHA is short for docosahexaenoic acid, and it’s one of the many omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3’s are essential to good heath. Although DHA is the most prevalent fatty acid in the brain, it’s also seen to play a substantial roll in avoiding coronary disease. Not only DHA plays this roll, but all omega-3 efas are important when it concerns your heart health.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Cholesterol
One diet that is high in omega-3’s is the Mediterranean diet. People who follow this diet tend to have high HDL, or “good” cholesterol. One reason is the Mediterranean diet has a fair amount of fish in it. This is further supported by the fact that Eskimos also are apt to have high HDL cholesterol. They also consume a lot of cold water, fatty fish. These fish tend to be quite high in omega-3 efas. You might not desire to eat halibut or tuna every day, but you can take fish oil supplements. Research has shown that these supplements reduce triglyceride levels. In addition to fish, walnuts are known to be high in omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids and High Blood Pressure
There have been several studies that have shown that diets high in omega-3’s or even fish oil supplements, can lower blood pressure levels. You don’t wish to self-medicate, however. Blood Pressure is a serious condition. Make sure you get your doctor’s approval before you do one thing.
Cardiovascular Disease and Omega-3 Efas
It’s been shown time and time again that diets low in saturated fats and high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (this includes omega-3 efas) help prevent cardiovascular disease. There is a lot of clinial evidence that fish-oil, which is high in EPA and DHA (two types of omega-3 essential fatty acids) help reduce instances of heart disease and cardiac event. In addition, fish-oil has been proven to have a very positive effect on lowering triglycerides, risk of death from coronary disease, stroke, and abnormal heart rhythms. Fish-oil has also been shown to help mitigate and treat hardening of the arteries through slowing the development of plaque and blood clots.
In other words, fish-oil, which contains copious amounts of EPA and DHA, is really healthy for you. Since with DHA you get a double whammy effect of helping your heart and brain, you probably want to think about DHA supplements in your diet. As in all things medical, talk to your doctor first.
Lee Cole is an avid health and exercise enthusiast! To find out more about DHA supplements, take a look at Lee’s blog, DHA Supplements Guide.