Use of Fish Oil for Cardiovascular Health

[Sagnika]

Hello, my 70-year-old granny is interested in learning whether fish oil supplementation could help lower her cholesterol. She reports no significant medical history but says she is interested in doing things that can keep her healthy. She eats well, exercises regularly, and takes several supplements that, she has read, can promote her health. A friend introduced her to fish oil, saying it might improve her heart health and lower her cholesterol, but she would like more information before deciding whether there are real benefits. Her physician indicated that she had borderline high cholesterol and that he would give her a trial of dietary modification for 3 months to determine whether this alone might address her issue. Can anybody recommend or suggest anything?

[Mukund]

@Sagnika Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish and some nuts and seeds, may have many beneficial effects, from reducing cholesterol and elevated triglycerides to improving symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Although fish oil products exist over the counter as dietary supplements, there are several FDA-approved fish oil products approved for use in treating hypertriglyceridemia. Fish oil may reduce elevated triglycerides, but the evidence regarding its efficacy in reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and total cholesterol levels has been conflicting. Most tips for living with mitral valve regurgitation suggest that fish oil does not reduce elevated cholesterol and may even further increase elevated LDL levels in patients with hyperlipidemia. In your granny's case, emphasize the effects of her lifestyle in cholesterol reduction. A diet low in saturated and trans fats and high in fiber, as well as a regular exercise routine, can help reduce cholesterol levels.