Omega-3 fatty acids have been touted for many disorders, primarily linked to their ability to influence inflammatory conditions. These beneficial fats are found in significant amounts in cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel and cod. Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of Americans, both male and female, therefore anything that can be done to reduce its incidence is of primary concern. Inflammation plays a central role in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. A simple test called C-reactive protein can be used to assess the overall state of systemic inflammation, and is an independent risk factor for heart disease. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicates that consumption of marine sources of omega-3 fatty acids reduces the incidence of elevated CRP.
A cross-sectional study, conducted in Japan, of nearly 600 women and 400 men over the age of 70 years was designed to examine the relationship between omega-3 consumption and CRP levels. Participants completed a questionnaire to estimate the levels of fish oil consumed and blood tests were taken to evaluate levels of CRP and other inflammatory markers. After adjusting for several other predictors of inflammation, researchers determined that individuals with the highest consumption of marine omega-3 fatty acids had the lowest prevalence of elevated CRP. These results are significant and confirm some prior work in this area. Adding fish oil to the diet is a simple step to help reduce risk of cardiovascular disease. People taking blood thinners and other medications or supplements with similar effects should consult a physician prior to supplementation.
When choosing an omega-3 supplement, all products are not created equally. Because these supplements are fat, they can become rancid. As well, most products are purified from fish oil and may be contaminated with PCBs and heavy metals, like mercury. High quality supplements will be tested for such components and rancidity will be prevented in processing. Certain processing techniques can also prevent the occurrence of the oil repeating later.
Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on September 17, 2006 07:01 AM
