Omega-3 fatty acids are good for your heart
For heart health, it’s OK to go fat. Fish oil fat, that is. Though all of us could include more fish in our diets, people at risk for or with coronary artery disease should eat about one gram of fish oil each day. That’s about three ounces of wild salmon. If you’re healthy, shoot for 500 milligrams of fish oil a day. The American Heart Association recommends two servings of fatty fish at least twice a week.
Why Fish Oil Is So Good for You
Studies show the omega-3 fatty acids in fish (and fish oil) can lessen the risk of developing heart disease. In fact, just one fish meal a week has been associated with a 52 percent lower risk for sudden cardiac death. The omega-3s prevent heart arrhythmias, slow the buildup of plaque in arteries, lower triglycerides and blood pressure.
What Kind of Fish Oil Is Best?
Fish that is baked or broiled is, of course, healthier. Fried or butter-battered fish doesn’t have the same healthy benefits. Pregnant women should eat two fatty fish meals each week, but they should avoid king mackerel, shark, swordfish and tilefish, all of which could contain mercury.
Allergic to fish or don’t like it? Talk to your doctor about supplements.
