Dietary fish and their fish oil supplement counterparts contain a number of beneficial, cardio-protective nutrients including the essential fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Omega-3, rich in EPA and DHA, possesses a triglyceride lowering effect and studies show that it has a positive influence on atherosclerosis.

Third, in the event that statin medications must be prescribed by a health professional to lower cholesterol levels, certain supplements can help balance drug-induced nutrient depletions and deficiencies while contributing to the risk reduction of other cardiovascular diseases. Statin drugs work by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol. However, clinical evidence reveals that their use also reduces CoQ10 levels in the body, resulting in a wide range of problems including fatigue, muscle pain and weakness. Supplementing with CoQ10 can help counteract drug side effects. As well, emergent information now suggests that increasing the amount of dietary omega-3 fatty acids and reducing the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio may also help statins work more effectively. And, a recent study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions has found that combining cholesterol-lowering drugs with a daily supplement of EPA from omega-3 fish oil reduces the incidence of sudden cardiac death, heart attacks and unstable angina, as well as the rate of surgeries to reopen blocked arteries.

Much of the Western world is at risk for cardiovascular disease, largely due to our sedentary lifestyle and less than optimal diet rampant in high animal protein and short in fruit, vegetables and fibre intake. For many, simply increasing exercise activities and improving upon unhealthy nutritional habits through wholesome eating and supportive supplementation will benefit their health greatly.

Source: NUTRITION HOUSE CANADA INC.