
Eating oily fish can reduce inflammation in your arteries and cut your heart attack risk
We all know of the benefits of fish on our health, but a recent study has highlighted a huge protective effect it issues on our health and blood vessels. It turns out that eating oily fish twice per week can really cut the risk of suffering a heart attack or a stroke. These findings were the result of a study developed by the American Heart Association (AHA).
Oily fish has dozens of benefits for heart health
Sixteen years ago, AHA released its first guidelines regarding the consumption of oily fish and heart health. Since then, science has evolved, and we have acquired more means to detect the beneficial effect of seafood. Given the fatty acids it contains, researchers have found some more healthy connections. Therefore, oily fish is great not only against heart attacks, but also against other cardiac events.
As a result, AHA decided to perform some new studies and update its guidelines according to the new findings. This way, the new recommendations indicate eating fish twice per week, in portions of 3.5 ounces each. However, for its effect to be complete, it’s better if you consume it non-fried. Also, make sure you choose oily fish, like mackerel, tuna, salmon, herring, sardines, or trout. These varieties have plenty of fatty acids and omega 3.
Avoid fried fish, as it loses the beneficial properties of omega 3
The link between oily fish and heart benefits comes from the great anti-inflammatory properties of omega 3. These acids prevent arteries from getting thicker and keep cholesterol and other fats from forming deposits on their walls. On top of that, researchers discovered some new benefits of omega 3. These fats improve the communication between cells, which is essential for the well-being of the heart.
Of course, an overly healthy diet is a lot more likely to improve your heart health. However, even eating oily fish from time to time can do the trick. What you need to keep in mind is that you need to avoid fried fish. By avoiding a diet rich in such products, you may cut your heart attack risk by 50 percent. The AHA study on the benefits of oily fish was published in the journal Circulation.
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