Vital - distributed monthly within the Detroit Free Press & The Detroit News. Also available free in hundreds of local racks
Advertisement
Advertisement
Eat Omega-3s for Heart Health
Fish, nuts and other great sources of fatty acids
Question: How important are omega-3 fatty acids when it comes to fighting heart disease? – Sue, Clarkston
Answer: Great question, Sue! The answer is, they’re very helpful. Research shows omega-3 fatty acids can help decrease the risk of arrhythmias, which can lead to sudden cardiac death, decrease triglyceride levels, decrease the rate of artery clogging plaque and slightly lower blood pressure. “The consumption of these fatty acids (omega- 3s) has been shown to be helpful in reducing the risk of death secondary to abnormal heart rhythm and cancer,” says Mukarram Siddiqui, M.D., of DMC Sinai-Grace Hospital.
The best source of omega-3s comes from fish such as salmon, tuna, trout and herring. Fish is full of protein and low in saturated fat. Omega-3 fatty acids are also found in nuts and green vegetables. But be sure to choose your foods wisely.
Foods enhanced with omega- 3s, such as eggs, vegetable oil, cereal, yogurt and milk, won’t give you as much of the fatty acid as you think. So how much should you eat?
A new study found people who ate about 11 ounces of fish per week reduced their risk of an irregular heartbeat by almost 30%. It’s recommended that patients without a history of heart disease eat fish at least twice a week. Patients with coronary heart disease are advised to add a couple more servings a week.
Those people not getting enough omega-3 fatty acids from their foods can try supplements. I personally take Res-Q 1250. It’s an omega-3 marine oil with a high-grade EPA and DHA formulation. But remember to consult your doctor before adding any new supplement to your diet.
As always, nutrition is critical, but so is exercise. Your heart is the most important muscle in your body; you need to exercise to keep it in shape – because all I want for you and your family is that you seize the moment of each and every day.
Fitness expert Peter Nielsen answers your questions every month in Vital. For more of Peter Nielsen’s health, fitness and nutrition tips, check out Peter’s nationally syndicated health and fitness show Peter’s Principles on WDIV-TV. You can also listen to Peter’s radio show weekdays at 11:25 a.m. and his weekly show Sunday at 3 p.m. on WJR-AM 760. To reach Peter’s health clubs, call 248.855.0345; for more information on Peter’s show or his products, go to www.peternielsen.com. Have a question for Peter? E-mail it to cmnelson@dnps.com or nielsenfit@aol.com.