Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (fish oil) and cardioprotective benefits

Abstract

The omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are found in seafood (especially fatty fish) and supplements. The lipid content and fatty acid profile vary greatly among different fish species. Fish oil supplements are generally safe, and the risk of toxicity with methylmercury, an environmental toxin found in fish, is minimal .A wide range of studies show an inverse relationship between marine n-3 fatty acids (EPA + DHA) consumption and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), including myocardial infarction and stroke.

Omega-3 fatty acids are cardioprotective mainly due to the modulation of a number of known risk factors for CVD: improving endothelial function, lowering blood pressure and lowering triglycerides. In this review we examine the various studies that have evaluated the role of fish oil in cardiovascular disease.