Omega-3s and Irregular Heart Beat
05/17/12 0 Comments | Posted by renewlifesupport in Fish Oils, Oil Supplements
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their heart-health benefits. From the reduction of triglyceride levels, balance of inflammation, and prevention of coronary events in people with heart disease to the improvement of abnormal cholesterol, omega-3 fatty acids found in fish affect the heart in many ways.
A recent study published in the journal Circulation adds to the support of omega-3s for the heart. The study found that the highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids were associated with a 29 percent reduction in the risk of atrial fibrillation, the most common form of heart arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, in older individuals.
The study was an observational study that needs further investigation to confirm the association. Because the study examined prevention, rather than treatment, of heart arrhythmia, it has the potential to lead to very important research. The researchers stated, “Given the aging of the population, the significant and growing public health burden of atrial fibrillation, and the limited treatment options once atrial fibrillation develops, our results highlight the need to investigate atrial physiological and arrhythmic mechanisms affected by total and individual [omega-3 fatty acids] and to test the efficacy of [omega-3 fatty acids] for preventing new onset of atrial fibrillation among older adults in a randomized intervention.”
Heart arrhythmia is just one of an array of cardiovascular diseases—the number one killer of Americans. If you can find ways to prevent heart disease by addressing proper nutrition, then why not include an omega-3 supplement into your diet?
Fish Oil for Muscles
05/9/12 0 Comments | Posted by renewlifesupport in Fish Oils, Oil Supplements
When omega-3 fish oil comes to mind, heart health is usually the first benefit attributed to it. Brain health and joint health are a close second and third. Did you know that omega-3s may also be helpful for your muscles?
According to a recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, regular fish oil consumption, in conjunction with strength training, improved muscle force and function in elderly women. The study involved 45 women about 64-years-old, all assigned to a strength training program. Fifteen women received a standard fish oil supplement containing 400 milligrams EPA and 300 milligrams DHA during the 90 days of strength training, and 15 women received the fish oil for 60 days before strength training as well as throughout the strength training. Fifteen of the women strength trained but did not take fish oil supplements.
All women experienced improvements in muscle force and function, but the women taking omega-3 fish oil saw even greater effects than the women not taking it. The results of this study may be particularly important for aging women. Not only does strength training help build bone, but muscular strength is also important for stability as we age. The researchers stated, “The use of fish oil supplementation in addition to strength training potentiates the neuromuscular system, enhancing the muscle strength and the functional capacity in elderly women. Thus, fish oil may be an attractive supplement for the elderly to maximize their neuromuscular responses to strength training, which is important to life quality.”
If you are not taking fish oil already for its array of health benefits, consider it. Improved muscle function is one small benefit in addition to many others you may gain from this amazing nutrient.