The common pill doesn’t need to cost a lot – but can make a major difference to your health
Health experts say there is one particularly helpful nutrient that could lower cholesterol and lessen your risk of cancer and some age-related conditions, like Alzheimer’s disease. Omega-3 fatty acids have many benefits for the body – from head to toe.
One pharmacist says most people would benefit from increasing their intake of the nutrient, but issued a warning at the same time. Ashley O’Dubháin claimed these essential fatty acids could boost neurological function and the immune system.
Their biggest benefit is helping heal our hearts and protect against the risk of a fatal heart attack or stroke with cholesterol-lowering ingredients. Most people don’t get enough omega-3 fatty acids in their diet, Ashley says.
So, the qualified pharmacist suggests people get their blood tested by a doctor to check if they would benefit from an omega-3 supplement to compensate. He added that it could help solve lots of those common health issues.
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, can help lower triglyceride levels in the blood, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Research also supports that they may modestly increase HDL “good” cholesterol.
Omega-3s may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering triglycerides and potentially increasing HDL. Some studies suggest they may also help with blood pressure and blood clots and potentially reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death.
But people have been warned that it’s not a silver bullet against cholesterol, and in the wrong amount, it can make matters worse. Some research indicates that high doses of omega-3s, particularly those rich in DHA, might slightly increase LDL ‘bad’ cholesterol levels.
Beyond heart health, omega-3s may help lower your risk of developing other conditions. According to the Cleveland Clinic, this essential nutrient could help ward off some forms of cancer, including breast cancer. Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
The pills are fairly cheap to obtain. Holland and Barrett sells a pack of 60 capsules for £12.99 (22p per capsule). Other places, such as Amazon and most supermarkets, sell them as well.
If a supplement isn’t something you want to consider, there are other ways to boost your omega-3 levels naturally. Specific types of omega-3s include DHA, EPA (found in seafood), and ALA (found in plants). Some foods that can help you add omega-3s to your diet include fatty fish (salmon and mackerel). You could also try adding some flaxseed and chia seeds to your diet.
Speak to your doctor first to check if you would benefit from omega-3 supplements before adding them to your diet. This is especially important if you have an underlying health condition or are taking medications.
