Heart disease and stroke are the world's largest killers, claiming 17.5 million lives each year. Unhealthy diets and lifestyle, physical inactivity and smoking are the leading causes of heart disease and stroke. And it is hence essential to have cardio-protective nutrients that have clinically been shown to have beneficial effects on the heart. As Omega 3 fatty acid has protective effects on the heart, it is considered to be one of the most cardio-protective nutrients available. O3FA is also associated with protection against heart stroke. It is available as a nutritional supplement in the form of capsules and tablets.
The U S Food and Drug Administration gave "qualified health claim" status to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) n-3 fatty acids, stating that "supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption of EPA and DHA [n-3] fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.”
Some benefits have been reported in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and cardiac arrhythmias. There is a promising preliminary evidence that n-3 fatty acids supplementation might be helpful in cases of depression and anxiety. Studies report highly significant improvement from n-3 fatty acids supplementation alone and in conjunction with medication.
In addition to the dietary sources described, EPA and DHA, it is also available in following forms:
*Fish oil capsules
*Flaxseed
*Flaxseed oil
*Fish and krill oils should be kept refrigerated
Whole flaxseeds must be ground within 24 hours of use, otherwise the ingredients lose their activity.
Dosing for fish oil supplements should be based on the amount of EPA and DHA in the product, not on the total amount of fish oil.
Precautions
Buy omega-3 fatty acid supplements made by established companies because the claims of being free of heavy metals like such as mercury, lead, and cadmium may be false. Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, these should be taken only under the supervision of knowledgeable health care provider.
The author is professor of medicine, KIMS Hospital, and can be contacted at 93412 34049
