DHA supplements are certainly something you need to take into consideration, if you’re interested in avoiding coronary disease. 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 large roll in avoiding heart problems. Not only DHA plays this roll, but all omega-3 efas are important when it concerns your heart health.
Omega-3 Efas 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 held up by the fact that Eskimos also are apt to have high HDL cholesterol. They also eat a lot of cold water, fatty fish. These fish tend to be extremely high in omega-3 efas. You might not prefer to eat halibut or tuna every day, but you can take fish oil supplements. Studies have shown that these supplements reduce triglyceride levels. In addition to fish, walnuts are recognized to be high in omega-3 essential fatty acids.
Omega-3 Efas and Hypertension
There have been several studies which 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 anything.
Coronary 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 coronary disease. There is a lot of clinical evidence that fish-oil, which is high in EPA and DHA (two types of omega-3 essential fatty acids) help reduce instances of heart problems and heart attack. In addition, fish oil has been proven to have a positive effect on lowering triglycerides, risk of death from cardiovascular 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 useful to you. Since with DHA you get a double whammy effect of helping your heart and brain, you probably want to take into consideration DHA supplements in your diet. As in all things medical, speak to your doctor first.
Lee Cole is an avid wellness and fitness enthusiast! To learn more about DHA supplements, take a look at Lee’s blog, DHA Supplements Guide.