From the Guidelines
Prescription-grade omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA, have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction, stroke, and coronary revascularization, in patients with elevated triglyceride levels and established cardiovascular disease or diabetes mellitus with multiple risk factors 1. The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids are primarily attributed to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and promote cardiovascular health.
- Key benefits include:
- Reducing triglyceride levels
- Lowering blood pressure
- Decreasing the risk of cardiovascular events
- Promoting brain health and potentially improving cognitive function
- Reducing joint pain and stiffness in inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
- Supporting fetal brain and eye development during pregnancy The most recent and highest-quality study, REDUCE-IT, demonstrated a 25% reduction in the primary composite endpoint of cardiovascular death, nonfatal MI, nonfatal stroke, coronary revascularization, or unstable angina with 4 g of EPA daily versus mineral oil placebo 1. It is essential to note that not all omega-3 supplements are created equal, and prescription-grade products have been shown to be more effective and better tolerated than nonprescription fish oil preparations 1. When considering omega-3 supplementation, it is crucial to look for products containing both EPA and DHA, and to take them with meals to improve absorption and reduce fishy aftertaste. Overall, the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly prescription-grade EPA, make them a valuable addition to the management of patients with elevated triglyceride levels and established cardiovascular disease or diabetes mellitus with multiple risk factors.
From the Research
Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The benefits of Omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids are numerous and well-documented in various studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Some of the key benefits include:
- Reduction in cardiovascular disease risk factors, such as lowering circulating triglyceride levels and the triglyceride:HDL-cholesterol ratio 2, 3
- Decrease in total mortality from major cardiovascular causes 5
- Improvement in inflammatory profile, particularly in patients with heart failure, by reducing levels of circulating inflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) 6
- Potential anti-inflammatory effects, which may exert beneficial outcomes in diseases characterized by increased inflammatory profile 6
- Cardioprotective effects, which can be achieved through fish oil supplements or eating more oily fish 2
Mechanisms of Action
The mechanisms of action of Omega-3 fatty acids are complex and involve various physiological processes, including:
- Lowering plasma triglycerides and oxidative stress 4
- Modulating gene regulation and physiology 4
- Reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health 3, 6
Sources and Recommendations
Omega-3 fatty acids can be obtained from various sources, including:
- Fish and fish oils 2, 3
- Algal sources, such as microalgae oil 4
- Supplements, such as EPA and DHA formulations 2 Recommended intakes of DHA+EPA have been forthcoming from numerous international groups for the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease, although most have not offered specific recommendations for the optimal individual intake of DHA and EPA 3