Recent headlines have questioned the benefits of omega-3s, but here are five examples that show EPA and DHA omega-3s benefit heart health.
1. Reduction in Cardiac Death Risk
Since 2004, every one of the 13 meta analyses on omega-3s and cardiac death have found statistically significant reductions (9-35%) in mortality.
2. Decrease in Triglycerides
21 meta analyses demonstrate a 20-40% reduction in serum triglycerides.
3. Reduction in Blood Pressure
Three meta analyses since 2004 found statistically significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, a risk factor for coronary heart disease. This is as effective as lifestyle changes like increasing physical activity and restricting alcohol or sodium intake.
4. Improvement of Cardiac Risk Factors
Omega-3s maintain healthy blood vessels, increase adiponectin and decrease heart rate.
5. Positive Impact on Public Health
A Global Burden of Disease report estimates low intakes of seafood omega-3s (rich source of EPA and DHA) caused 1.03 million deaths and 22.4 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) globally in 2013.
