Omega-3 Helps Circulation … by Aiding Relaxation

It’s now common knowledge that omega-3 fatty acids are integral to cardiovascular health, while yet another study has been released that goes further to explore just why fish-oil is so good for us. In a study of twenty-five healthy subjects (12 men, 13 women) an omega-3 (long-chain) enriched meal reduced arterial stiffness compared to a normal meal. This effect was almost instant, occurring minutes after eating, demonstrating that these miracle-foods can influence your body’s communication systems and chemical messengers, as well as making sure we’re made up of the right stuff. A significant treatment effect was also seen on circulating fatty acid concentrations.

What can you do?

Although these findings were observed following eating a meal, rather than taking a supplement, many people dislike oily fish – 74% of the UK population, apparently (according to a government survey). A simple solution is to supplement with a flavoured oil or a capsule form of fish-oils. You’re looking for a high l;evel of EPA to exert the maximum effect on chemical signalling.

Reference
Chong, M. F. F., S. Lockyer, et al."Long chain n – 3 PUFA-rich meal reduced postprandial measures of arterial stiffness." Clinical Nutrition In Press, Corrected Proof.