Dominik D. Alexander, PhD, MSPH and colleagues have recently published a meta-Analysis of randomized controlled trials and prospective cohort studies of Eicosapentaenoic and Docosahexaenoic long-chain Omega-3 fatty acid consumption and coronary heart disease risk. This well-designed study was published in the first issue of the Mayo Clinic Proceedings journal for 2017. The authors analyzed 18 randomized controlled studies and 16 prospective cohort studies conducted between 1947 and 2015. They concluded that omega 3 fatty acids supplementation is not associated with a statistically significant heart health improvement. However, in high risk population, namely patients with elevated low density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides, omega 3 fatty acids resulted in significant reduction in heart related disease events.
Obesity and type 2 diabetes are major risk factors for Heart disease in the United States. Poor diet and sedentary lifestyle are fueling the twin obesity-diabetes epidemic. Our modern processed diet is poor in omega 3 fatty acid and rich in omega 6 fatty acids. High insulin levels secondary to high sugar and refined carbohydrate consumption in the setting of low omega 3 fatty acids increase the conversion of omega 6 fatty acids to arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is a central player in cellular inflammation. Chronic inflammation is associated with aging, cardio-vascular disease, cancer development, dementia … The addition of omega 3 fatty acids to our diet as well as the regular consumption of seafood while avoiding processed and refined carbohydrates especially in the obese population is highly recommended.

If you are overweight, suffer from high cholesterol or triglyceride levels, and if you have diabetes or pre-diabetes, let the addition of omega 3 fatty acids to your diet be your new year resolution. Small dietary changes in your everyday life can have great effect on your longevity and health. Your best wealth is your health. Start investing in your health today. For more questions and if you desire additional dietary recommendations, please do hesitate to contact our nutritionist at Houston Weight Loss Surgery Center.