New Study Links Omega-3s to Heart Health

Recently published research investigated the omega-3 index in patients with heart failure to explore association and potential prediction of risk. The omega-3 index is the sum of EPA and DHA in erythrocyte membranes. Blood samples from 899 subjects with systolic heart failure were analyzed for fatty acid composition. The authors concluded, “Our results show a marked depletion of omega-3 fatty acids in patients hospitalized for decompensated heart failure (suggested target range 8-11%). Although the O3-I was associated with a panel of established risk indicators in heart failure, it did not predict mortality risk.” In a previous study from last year, authors had suggested that although  omega-3 PUFA supplements might be beneficial in HF [heart failure] patients, especially in DCM [dilated cardiomyopathy]patients, further studies were needed.

Although this new study did not directly show a connection between omega-3 levels and mortality from heart failure, an earlier study did. The authors point out that omega-3 fatty acid concentrations are low in patients with coronary heart disease, and that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids improves outcomes in cardiac patients. This study looked at 109 patients with both heart failure and major depressive disorder and heart failure. They found that, “The results suggest that low plasma omega-3 FA is a significant factor for reduced survival in HF [heart failure] patients with MDD [major depressive disorder].”

Evidence continues to increase showing the benefit of omega-3 fatty acids for cardiovascular health. Another, earlier meta-analysis of studies addressing omega-3 fatty acids and heart failure found that the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids decreased the risk for heart failure, simply eating fish lowered heart failure risk.

“In general, there is growing evidence that supplementation with omega-3 PUFAs positively impacts established pathophysiological targets in HF and has potential therapeutic utility for HF patients.”

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