(23-05-11) Omega-3 fatty acids lower heart disease and dementia risk markers

by John Phillip


(NaturalNews) Researchers publishing in the journal Nutrition show that Omega-
3 fatty acids found in fish and natural foods including nuts and seeds can
lower levels of dangerous homocysteine, an amino acid linked with increased
risk of cardiovascular disease and dementia. Reviewing data from eleven trials
including more than 720 study participants, scientists found that introducing
Omega-3 fats from dietary or supplemental sources was associated with
significantly lowered levels of plasma homocysteine. Homocysteine is a known
atherogenic marker contributing to increased risk of heart disease and heart
attack and most recently is implicated in the development of Alzheimer`s
dementia. Based on conclusive evidence provided by this meta-study and by
volumes of research over the past decade, most health conscious people should
include Omega-3 fats in their diet or supplemental regime to lower chronic
disease risk factors.

Higher levels of homocysteine have been implicated with increased risk from
heart disease since the observation that children with elevated levels of the
amino acid were at dramatically increased risk from heart disease at an earlier
age. B vitamins effectively lower homocysteine saturation levels in the blood
by providing methyl groups that cause the compound to be converted to an inert
substance that is passed from the body.

The result of this meta-analysis provides evidence that Omega-3 fats
effectively lower homocysteine levels by deactivating an enzyme that is
necessary in the formation of the dangerous amino acid. Omega-3 fats also
improve vascular function by improving LDL and HDL cholesterol lipid ratios.
The DHA form of the long-chain fat is also shown to lower the risk of
thrombosis (blood clots) while reducing blood pressure and heart rate in
subjects at high risk for cardiovascular disease.

Researchers publishing in The Journal of Neuroscience found that DHA boosts
levels of a specific protein (LR11) that helps to naturally dissolve plaque
tangles in the brain before they can disrupt normal electrical and
neurotransmitter functions. Scientists believe that DHA is a nature-supplied
nutrient that can help lower the risk of developing this devastating disease,
especially when consumed or supplemented from an early age.

It comes as no surprise to natural health practitioners that Omega-3 fats
promote vibrant health and dramatically lower the risk of chronic illnesses.
Omega-3 fatty acids have been an integral part of the human diet for countless
generations, and they are incorporated into cell wall structures throughout the
body. Omega-3 fats have been displaced in our regular diet in favor of
inflammatory Omega-6 fats, causing systemic inflammation and disease.
Nutritional experts from the referenced meta-analysis found that .2 to 6 grams
of Omega-3 fats consumed daily provide critical support for optimal health and
chronic disease reduction.

Article References:
http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com...
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/...
http://www.bmj.com/content/341/bmj....
http://www.wellnessresources.com/he...
http://www.jneurosci.org/content/27...

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