... naturally
A recent study in Japan resulted in EPA (a fatty acid found in fish oil) being approved for the treatment of hyperlipidemia and peripheral artery disease, and in Europe, for reduction of mortality after a heart attacks. [Read more…] about Fish Oil Supplements and Your Heart
Nearly every day, I am asked my opinion on a variety of nutritional supplements. It can be something to help stop smoking, lower cholesterol or lose weight. Often it will be about the various “menopausal products” that are on the market.
One of the things I frequently tell people is that whatever you buy, make sure it comes from a reputable company. Unfortunately, there are not really set standards when it comes to supplements. Or so I thought.
A new study was just published by the Archives of Ophthalmology which showed that smoking contributes to the risk of developing Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD).
ARMD is particularly disturbing because it is progressive, there is no known cure and no way to reverse the loss of vision. It tends to run in families – for example, it affects my mother as well as all of her siblings. It is also more common in women.
What can you do?
For further resources on ARMD:
For the last several years I’ve subscribed to a monthly newsletter for health care professionals that prescribe medications called Prescriber’s Letter (that was a surprise!).
I always like it because it gets beyond the hype that we all hear when a pharmaceutical rep comes to the office to educate us on their wares. This is one newsletter that does not even allow pharmaceutical company support, and they will often tell you what is wrong with the info we get from reps.
That said, the July issue of Prescriber’s Letter starts with some information on fish oil supplements.
It seems that mainstream medicine is finally taking Omega-3 fatty acids more seriously than before. (Western, mainstream medicine is slow and conservative!).
Here are some facts and recommendations:
Of course the pharmaceutical companies will be coming out with prescription medication that will contain omega 3s. However, if you can get your levels down with fish oil supplements, fiber, and proper eating¦you are ahead of the game.
Fish oils also seem to have antiplatelet and anti-inflammatory properties and a mild blood pressure lowering effect – all good things.
Be aware that flaxseed and some nuts which also contain omega-3s, alpha-linolenic acids (ALA), but it seems to be different that one ones found in fish.
Alpha-linolenic acid may also help decrease heart disease and arthrosclerosis (gunky vessels) but does not seem to affect triglycerides.
In order to boost levels of ALA try eating a handful of walnuts, almonds or pecans daily. If you’d rather, have 1-2 tablespoons/day of ground flaxseed or ½ to 1 teaspoon/day of flaxseed oil.
I personally use ground flaxseed on lots of things. I sprinkle it on oatmeal or other cereals, fruit salads, yogurt and cottage cheese dishes I make with fruit, etc. I even throw some in the blender when making up smoothies.
Another side note. When you are looking for supplements, make sure you are getting more Omega-3s. Many products have both O-3s and O-6s. You need only a few 6s. You want the O-3s. And, remember not all products are equal, and if you purchase a 90 day supply for $5.00 you probably paid for nothing.
Here you have it, another tool for you to use to decrease your risk of heart disease, which is the number one cause of death in women. You’re already quit smoking and are exercising – right?
Barbara C. Phillips, MN, NP
OlderWiserWomenâ„¢
This is just one of the very important reasons to eat foods high in antioxidants as well as take antioxidant supplements on a daily basis.
But see for yourself – just click on the link below to check out the study.
BBC NEWS | Health | Antioxidants a key to ‘long life’
To your long life!
Barbara C. Phillips, NP
www.OlderWiserWomen.com