Heart disease is the number one killer of Americans. There are many factors that predispose an individual to suffer from one or more of the many forms of heart disease, but it's been proven that diet plays a key role in both triggering and preventing this kind of disorder.

The obvious triggers are food high in saturated fats that directly affect your hearts ability to pump blood effectively throughout the circulatory system. Deposits of cholesterol within the blood vessels impede the normal flow of blood and can even detach and cause a pulmonary embolism, stroke or heart attack. A very simple yet effective way to prevent cholesterol from depositing in the first place is the daily use of fish oil.

Fish oil has repeatedly been shown in epidemiological and clinical trials to reduce the incidence of heart disease by lowering cholesterol. Large-scale epidemiological studies suggest that all individuals at risk for coronary heart disease can benefit from the consumption of fish oil due to its elevated content of omega 3 fatty acids.

In fact, everyone without exception can improve their health with fish oil by following some extremely uncomplicated guidelines.

People without documented coronary heart disease, should eat a variety of fish at least twice a week. Preferably, choose oily fish such as sardines, mackerel or salmon which are very high in beneficial fatty acids. In conjunction with this dietary change, other foods rich in alpha-linoleic acid such as flax seeds, walnut or soybean oil can be selected for added benefit.

For those whose coronary heart disease has been documented, EPA and DHA are essential nutrients to include in the diet. These are Omega 3 fatty acids that are responsible for nerve function, stable mood, optimal circulation and even weight loss. A high quality supplement should be introduced in the diet preferably after consultation with a physician.

For those individuals who are looking to decrease the amount of damaging cholesterol in their system, 2 to 4 grams daily of EPA & DHA will successfully lower their existing levels. Again, look for the best, highest quality supplement available in order to achieve the desired effect.

It is important to remember that the American Heart Association recommends at least two servings of fish per week. It also urges individuals to include other food sources high in alpha-linoleic acid such as flax or walnuts that can improve the health of the general population.

Remember to eat a wide variety of fish to minimize exposure to environmental pollutants such as heavy metals.

It is crucial to seek out the highest quality fish oil supplement when trying to implement these dietary changes. Cod liver oil, for example, has excessive levels of Vitamin A and D that could potentially create problems in children and young adults. In addition, since the liver acts as a filter for unwanted substances ingested by the fish, cod liver oil is more likely to contain contaminants such as PBCs.

Always look for unrefined, free of impurities, wild caught and environmentally safe fish oil.




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