Omega-3 fatty acids lower heart disease and dementia risk markers

Monday, May 09, 2011 by: John Phillip
Tags: omega-3 fatty acids, heart disease, health news

(NewsTarget) Researchers publishing in the journal Nutrition show that Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and natural foods including nuts and seeds can lower levels of dangerous homocysteine, an amino acid linked with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and dementia. Reviewing data from eleven trials including more than 720 study participants, scientists found that introducing Omega-3 fats from dietary or supplemental sources was associated with significantly lowered levels of plasma homocysteine. Homocysteine is a known atherogenic marker contributing to increased risk of heart disease and heart attack and most recently is implicated in the development of Alzheimer`s dementia. Based on conclusive evidence provided by this meta-study and by volumes of research over the past decade, most health conscious people should include Omega-3 fats in their diet or supplemental regime to lower chronic disease risk factors.

Higher levels of homocysteine have been implicated with increased risk from heart disease since the observation that children with elevated levels of the amino acid were at dramatically increased risk from heart disease at an earlier age. B vitamins effectively lower homocysteine saturation levels in the blood by providing methyl groups that cause the compound to be converted to an inert substance that is passed from the body.

The result of this meta-analysis provides evidence that Omega-3 fats effectively lower homocysteine levels by deactivating an enzyme that is necessary in the formation of the dangerous amino acid. Omega-3 fats also improve vascular function by improving LDL and HDL cholesterol lipid ratios. The DHA form of the long-chain fat is also shown to lower the risk of thrombosis (blood clots) while reducing blood pressure and heart rate in subjects at high risk for cardiovascular disease.

Researchers publishing in The Journal of Neuroscience found that DHA boosts levels of a specific protein (LR11) that helps to naturally dissolve plaque tangles in the brain before they can disrupt normal electrical and neurotransmitter functions. Scientists believe that DHA is a nature-supplied nutrient that can help lower the risk of developing this devastating disease, especially when consumed or supplemented from an early age.

It comes as no surprise to natural health practitioners that Omega-3 fats promote vibrant health and dramatically lower the risk of chronic illnesses. Omega-3 fatty acids have been an integral part of the human diet for countless generations, and they are incorporated into cell wall structures throughout the body. Omega-3 fats have been displaced in our regular diet in favor of inflammatory Omega-6 fats, causing systemic inflammation and disease. Nutritional experts from the referenced meta-analysis found that .2 to 6 grams of Omega-3 fats consumed daily provide critical support for optimal health and chronic disease reduction.

Article References:
http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Research...
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21501950
http://www.bmj.com/content/341/bmj.c6273.ful...
http://www.wellnessresources.com/health/arti...
http://www.jneurosci.org/content/27/52/14299...

About the author

John Phillip is a Health Researcher and Author who writes regularly on the cutting edge use of diet, lifestyle modifications and targeted supplementation to enhance and improve the quality and length of life. John is the author of 'Your Healthy Weight Loss Plan', a comprehensive EBook explaining how to use Diet, Exercise, Mind and Targeted Supplementation to achieve your weight loss goal. Visit My Optimal Health Resource to continue reading the latest health news updates, and to download your Free 48 page copy of 'Your Healthy Weight Loss Plan'.