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Omega-3 fatty acids
supplement Under reviewOmega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that play essential roles in maintaining body temperature and reducing inflammation. There are two main dietary sources: marine sources (fish and seafood) provide EPA and DHA, while plant sources (such as flaxseed) provide ALA. These long-chain omega-3 fatty acids influence cell and tissue physiology and how cells respond to external signals, making them fundamental to optimal health. Omega-3s work through multiple mechanisms to support cardiovascular health, including reducing triglyceride levels, raising HDL cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing platelet aggregation. DHA has particular importance for brain and eye structure and function, especially early in life. Beyond cardiovascular benefits, omega-3s may help reduce symptoms of asthma, depression, and certain autoimmune conditions by modulating inflammatory responses.
Research summary
Clinical research demonstrates that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, provide cardiovascular protection through both primary and secondary prevention of cardiac disease. A 2020 Cochrane Review of 86 randomized controlled trials found that doses ranging from 0.5 to over 5 g/day reduced triglyceride levels by approximately 15% and slightly decreased cardiovascular mortality and coronary heart disease events. Secondary prevention trials show that 850 mg/day of combined EPA and DHA can reduce coronary heart disease events by 25% and sudden cardiac death by 45%. However, clinical trial results on omega-3 supplement benefits show mixed outcomes, with some studies demonstrating cardiovascular protection while others show no benefit, potentially due to variations in dosage, formulation, and study populations. Research on inflammation reduction in specific populations has yielded inconsistent results.
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