Heart Healthy Oils

Heart healthy oils found in omega-3s benefit the heart in many ways including lowered blood pressure, stabilized heart rate, clot formation reduction, inflammation protection and prevention of life-threatening arrhythmias (1).

The essential, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids seem to have a stabilizing effect on the heart.  They can lower heart rate and reduce the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms.  Omega-3 fatty acids enter the cell membrane, making communication between cells fluid and effortless.  There’s strong evidence that omega-3s assist in lowering blood pressure.  In addition, omega-3 fatty acids may help inhibit the growth of arterial plaque thus helping to reduce heart disease.

Sweet and Sour Salmon

Abundance of omega-3s in this sweet and sour salmon dish are considered heart healthy.  In fact, salmon is one of the best sources of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Click Here for Recipe

Suggested Daily Amount of Omega-3:

A person's total amount of Omega-3 fatty acids should be 1200mg daily, consisting approximately 580-600mg of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 460-480mg of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

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The heart healthy oils found in omega-3 fatty acids are one of the most anti-inflammatory molecules and inflammation is a major contributor to almost every degenerative disease.  The omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), also have positive effects on blood lipids and help reduce triglycerides (2) - a blood fat that’s linked to heart disease.  Triglyceride levels can also be brought down with exercise, by drinking less alcohol, and cutting back on sweets and refined carbohydrates. 

Since the body cannot make omega-3 fatty acids on its own, it is essential to get them from the diet or supplements.  Many food products now boast that they have added omega-3 to support various aspects of heart health.  But please be aware that the amount of omega-3s these products contain may be minimal. They may contain the ALA form of omega-3, which hasn't yet shown the same health benefits as EPA and DHA.  For a measured dose of omega-3, taking fish oil supplements may be more reliable.  Consider supplements and for details on this product, along with information on how to receive an Amazon e-card, please contact us at: support@HeartHealthyRecipes.com

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Additional Benefits of Omega-3s:

Studies Show Omega-3s May Relieve Anxiety & Depression

The essential omega-3 fatty acids may also help alleviate anxiety (3) and depression (4,5), along with helping mental acuity and attention deficient disorder (6). Remembering that the body does not produce omega-3s on its own, the American Psychiatric Association recommends the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation for depression (7).  Also, the benefits of inflammation reduction that omega-3s provide may benefit asthma suffers as well.

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Ways to Increase Heart Healthy Oils:

·         Consuming healthy oils that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids such as walnuts, olive oil, flaxseeds, flaxseed oil and grape seed oil.

·         Eating salmon, tuna, trout, herring, mackerel - but note may contain mercury - consider ultra-pure Omega-3 supplements.

·         Increasing daily servings of fruits and vegetables - especially peas, beans and green leafy vegetables.

·         Avoid saturated fat and choose lean, low-fat meat instead.

·         Avoid unhealthy oils including corn, safflower, sunflower, soybean, canola and cottonseed oils - instead consume monounsaturated oils such as olive oil, flaxseed oil and grape seed oil.

·         Decrease intake of trans-fatty acids by cutting back on margarine, vegetable shortening, commercial pastries, deep fried food, prepared snacks, mixes and convenience food. 

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Medical Disclaimer:  HeartHealthyRecipes.com website offers informational service only and the information contained in this website is not intended as professional medical advice.  The content in this website should not be used solely during a medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health care provider regarding any course of medical treatment.