Fish oil has been studied for a lot of things, and the fish oil and heart disease improvement connection is one of the most studied areas of all.

 

In fact, both the American Heart Association and Food and Drug Administration have come out making statements about the potential benefits of Omega 3 fatty acids for cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease.

 

Fish oils are the best source of Omega 3 fatty acids because they supply both DHA and EPA directly, which plant sources of Omega 3 fatty acids such as flaxseed do not.

 

There's also been some evidence that there is a fish oil and cholesterol link as well, meaning that fish oil may help lower serum cholesterol levels. Although the final word is still out in this regard, some studies suggest that fish oil may increase good cholesterol (HDL) and slightly lower bad (LDL) cholesterol in some instances.

 

 

 

Importantly, triglyceride levels may be favorably lowered by fish oil....and high triglycerides can pose a substantial danger to those with heart disease.

 

Lastly, fish oil is a blood thinner and, therefore, may help the blood flow through arteries more freely. Blood thinners help prevent clumping and sticking....some people with a history of heart disease in their families may be prone to blockages in their arteries that trigger heart attacks. Blood thinners can help prevent this.

 

However, if you're already currently on blood thinners like aspirin or other anti-coagulants, make sure you let your doctor know if you intend to take fish oils. It's probably not a good idea to thin your blood too much and therefore you should be monitored by a qualified medical professional in such cases.