Too little fish oil hurts your heart

by The News International
(Sunday, April 11, 2010 - Pakistan)

Doctors have identified a new risk factor for heart disease, according to an article in the July issue of Preventive Medicine. The Omega-3 Index measures the levels of the most heart-healthy omega-3 oils, gained mostly by eating fish or taking fish oil supplements.

Research has shown that an Omega-3 Index of 8 percent to 10 percent reduces a person?s relative risk of death from coronary heart disease by 40 percent, and from sudden cardiac death by 90 percent.

However, lower levels of omega-3 oils in a person?s body can increase the risk of heart disease, said researchers at St. Luke?s Mid-America Heart Institute in Kansas City.

We are designed to thrive on a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids, but most Americans eat far too little fish to reap any benefits from the omega-3 oils,? lead researcher Dr. William Harris said in a prepared statement.

Even those who regularly eat fish or take fish oil supplements may not be getting enough for their unique, individual needs.?

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