Omega-3s are a helpful and important form of fat, one that your body needs but can’t make. Although your body needs two forms of omega fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6, it is the omega-3s that get high marks from researchers. They believe that omega-3s help prevent heart disease in healthy people and slow progress of the disease in those who already have it.
Here’s how experts believe consuming omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk for heart disease
- Lowers the risk for arrhythmia, an abnormal heart rhythm, which can lead to sudden cardiac death
- Lowers triglyceride levels
- Lowers the growth rate of plaque that clogs blood vessels
- Lowers blood pressure slightly
- Helps prevent inflammation of the blood vessels and formation of blood clots
High omega-3 foods to add to your shopping cart
- Oils from soybeans, flaxseed and canola
- Walnuts or walnut oil
- Fatty fish, including salmon, mackerel, lake trout, sardines and albacore tuna (fresh or choose varieties packed in water)
- Brussels sprouts, kale, spinach, parsley, watercress
- Eggs labeled as containing omega-3 fatty acids
