Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Heart Health

Omega-3 is one of the two main groups of polyunsaturated fatty acids necessary for the human body. They contain important fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which are found in high concentrations in the organisms of cold-water marine animals – fish and seafood.

It is important to understand that these two significant fatty acids are not produced in the human body, so they must be obtained through diet – from fish or in the form of fish oil supplements. Research and also the patient experience of Professor Andris Skride indicate that people in Latvia consume far too little saltwater fish, and it is practically impossible to obtain these fatty acids from other food products, as they are found there in much lower concentrations.

Several clinical, scientifically controlled studies have been conducted on the positive effects of Omega-3. The most significant scientific study is GISSI-Prevenzione, which proved that the use of these fatty acids significantly reduced the risk of acute myocardial infarction and sudden death. However, it is important to emphasize here that the clinically studied daily dose of fatty acids was 2000 mg.[1]

Scientific studies show that omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), can help:

·       EPA and DHA contribute to normal heart function

·       Improve blood vessel elasticity

·       Help reduce inflammatory processes

·       Omega 3 helps reduce triglyceride levels[2]

The importance of omega-3 fatty acids is particularly studied in relation to reducing the risk of heart disease, where several studies indicate a possible positive effect from regular intake of sufficient amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. When choosing an omega-3 supplement, it is crucial to ensure an adequate daily intake of EPA and DHA. Studies show that a beneficial effect on heart health is observed with a daily intake of approximately 250 mg of EPA and DHA. One capsule of the Cardeon Omega-3 dietary supplement contains 500 mg of EPA and 251 mg of DHA, thus providing a concentrated source of these fatty acids in a single capsule.

When should you start thinking about heart health prevention?

To strengthen heart health, Omega-3 fatty acids should be taken regularly by everyone, regardless of age. Omega-3 fatty acids are especially recommended for men after the age of 40 and for women after menopause, when the risk of coronary heart disease significantly increases.

It should also be noted that the basic medications worldwide for the prevention of myocardial infarction, stroke, sudden death, and atherosclerosis are statin-group preparations (rosuvastatin, atorvastatin). These are scientifically proven, safe, and effective. According to the latest clinical studies (HOPE-3), it has been found that they should be used not only for patients with high and very high cardiovascular risk but also for those with moderate risk in disease prevention and treatment.[3] Based on scientific research and clinical experience, Prof. Andris Skride recommends daily use of Cardeon Omega-3 dietary supplement for both individuals with and without cardiovascular diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids are also included in all three Cardeon dietary supplement kits: “Cardeon Balance” (for high blood pressure), “Cardeon Life” (for elevated cholesterol levels and heart disease prevention), and “Cardeon Vital” (for heart failure, reduced physical endurance, and fatigue). A nutritionist or treating physician can help determine the most appropriate product choice individually.

[3] Andris Skride. (2017) Omega-3 fatty acids for heart health. Available at:  https://sirdsunveseliba.lv/lv/omega-3-taukskabes-sirds-veselibai/