Atherosclerosis and the Omega-3 Index
A recent study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition reveals a concerning trend: patients in the early stages of atherosclerosis tend to have low Omega-3 Index levels. The Omega-3 Index measures the percentage of EPA and DHA—key long-chain omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil—in red blood cells, serving as a reliable biomarker for cardiovascular health.
One early sign of heart disease is coronary artery calcification (CAC)—calcium deposits that accumulate on arterial walls, narrowing blood vessels and increasing the risk of cardiovascular events. CAC is considered one of the best non-invasive markers for heart disease risk and is commonly measured using CT scans and Agatston scoring.
In this study, researchers assessed CAC progression and Omega-3 Index levels among 71 patients. While demographic and medical variables such as age, gender, medication use, and cardiovascular risk factors remained consistent across participants, those with lower Omega-3 Index values showed a significant association with early-stage CAC, suggesting that omega-3 deficiency may contribute to early atherosclerosis.
How EPA and DHA Impact Heart Health
Previous studies have established that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, help prevent vascular calcification on a cellular level. These fatty acids are known to:
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Improve endothelial function
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Promote vasodilation
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Reduce oxidative stress and inflammation
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Stabilize plaque and slow its development
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Lower blood vessel stiffness
Ballstad Omega-3, rich in purified EPA and DHA, offers a premium supplement solution for those looking to support their heart health naturally and effectively.
Omega-3s and Aortic Calcification
A separate population-based study, published in Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases, further supports the link between omega-3 status and vascular health. Among over 1,000 men aged 40–49 across diverse ethnic groups, researchers found a significant inverse relationship between EPA/DHA levels and aortic calcification. Notably, this association was more strongly influenced by DHA.
These findings underscore the importance of monitoring omega-3 levels, especially for men at risk of cardiovascular disease.
Peripheral Artery Disease and Omega-3 Deficiency
Another study published in Lipids examined individuals with peripheral artery disease (PAD)—a condition where plaque buildup reduces blood flow in the leg arteries. Comparing 145 PAD patients with 34 controls, researchers discovered a notably lower Omega-3 Index in PAD patients (5% vs. 6%). Each 1% decrease in the Omega-3 Index was linked to a 39% increase in PAD risk.
These results suggest that omega-3 deficiency is prevalent among PAD patients and could play a critical role in the disease’s progression. Ballstad Omega-3 offers a convenient and reliable way to increase EPA and DHA levels and potentially reduce the risk of vascular complications.
Omega-3 Supplements and Heart Health: What the Meta-Analyses Say
Two comprehensive reviews published in 2018 offer mixed—but ultimately encouraging—insights into omega-3 supplementation:
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A Cochrane Review involving 86 trials found that omega-3 supplements reduced coronary heart disease mortality by 8% and coronary events by 9%.
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The British Journal of Cancer published a simultaneous review indicating that omega-3 intake had minimal impact on cancer incidence.
While these findings suggest modest cardiovascular benefits from fish oil supplements, they reinforce the importance of long-term omega-3 intake, especially for heart health.
Balancing Risks and Benefits
Researchers estimate that for every 1,000 people taking omega-3 supplements for four years:
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3 will avoid dying from heart disease
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6 will avoid a coronary event
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3 may develop prostate cancer
Though these figures are small, the net cardiovascular benefit of omega-3s outweighs the risks, particularly for individuals with low Omega-3 Index levels. Importantly, most studies reflect the effects of fish oil supplements—not dietary intake of oily fish, which provides a broader nutritional profile.
Omega-3s and Environmental Responsibility
As the popularity of omega-3 supplements grows, some researchers have raised concerns about industrial fishing and environmental sustainability. Fortunately, premium brands like Ballstad Omega-3 prioritize purity, sustainability, and responsible sourcing, offering a clean and effective product that supports your heart without compromising the planet.
Optimize Heart Health Through Omega-3s
From early-stage atherosclerosis to peripheral artery disease, a growing body of research highlights the critical role omega-3 fatty acids play in cardiovascular wellness. Maintaining a healthy Omega-3 Index through diet or supplementation—especially with high-quality options like Ballstad Omega-3—may reduce your risk of arterial calcification and improve long-term heart health.
To protect your heart, consider taking an Omega-3 Index test and adopting a targeted approach to boosting your EPA and DHA intake. Your cardiovascular system will thank you.
Credit: OmegaQuant Website
