Protecting your heart is so critical.
And given that heart disease is America’s #1 killer, you would think that protecting your heart is complicated. We are here to answer your questions.
But not so for most Americans whose bodies are out of nutritional balance. Our bodies are chronically inflamed, and we are beginning to see the health effects, including increased incidence of heart disease.
The most frequently asked question first: What can omega-3 fish oil do to help protect your heart?
An ultra-purified, concentrated omega-3 fish oil supplement, like PharmaOmega Cardio, can provide your heart with powerful protection against heart disease. Omega-3 fish oil has been proven to reduce triglycerides, normalize blood pressure, promote healthy blood vessels and circulation, improve heart rhythm, reduce progression of plaque, improve overall function of the heart muscle, reduce inflammation, and improve nerve function and nerve transmission. And equally important, omega-3 fish oil can help improve longevity and overall quality of life.
Do you have a question about omega-3 fish oil and heart health?
Click here to submit your question to our expert Wellness Coaching staff, or browse below to read the answers to questions submitted by other people just like you.
Will omega-3 fish oil promote heart health, even if I am at risk for a heart attack?
Will omega-3 fish oil help my cholesterol levels?
Is omega-3 fish oil safe to take for someone who has diabetes and coronary artery disease?
How will the omega-3 fish oil interact with prescription medications?
I am taking Lipitor. Is it okay for me to take omega-3 fish oil?
Is PharmaOmega safe to take with Coumadin?
My doctor has me on a diuretic for my heart disease. Is omega-3 fish oil okay for me to take?
I’m on a beta-blocker. Can I take omega-3 fish oil?
Is omega-3 fish oil better than Lipitor for cholesterol?
Q: Will omega-3 fish oil promote heart health, even if I am at risk for a heart attack?
A: Omega-3s are essential for heart health, whether you are at risk or not. They have been shown to promote a number of heart-healthy effects including, but not limited to: reducing triglyceride levels; raising levels of HDL (“good") cholesterol; reducing levels of homocysteine; reducing blood pressure; and slowing the progression of atherosclerosis. It is always advisable to inform your doctor of changes to your dietary regimen though, especially if you are at risk for heart-related conditions.
Q: Will omega-3 fish oil help my cholesterol levels?
A: Omega-3 does improve the body´s cholesterol levels. Improvement is the result of increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol, and reducing triglyceride levels in the bloodstream. Additionally, omega-3 has been shown to improve the functioning of the liver, which is where the body produces cholesterol. If cholesterol or triglyceride levels are an issue for you, it is suggested that you inform your doctor of your diet and supplementation choices.
Q: Is omega-3 fish oil safe to take for someone who has diabetes and coronary artery disease?
A: Omega-3 is safe for someone who has diabetes and/or coronary artery disease to take. Recent research indicates that omega-3 has a beneficial effect on insulin sensitivity, and omega-3's profound benefits on heart health are well documented.
Q: How will the omega-3 fish oil interact with prescription heart medications?
A: Omega-3 fats from fish (EPA and DHA) are a natural part of a normal, healthy diet. Everyone needs to eat some omega-3 fat. In general, EPA and DHA do not interfere with medications. There is concern of risk with taking higher doses of omega-3s with blood thinning medications. In some instances, however, omega-3s help medications work better. After all, omega-3s improve your nutritional status. We advise that you tell your healthcare practitioner that you are taking dietary supplements, especially when taking medication.
Q: I am taking Lipitor. Is it okay for me to take omega-3 fish oil?
A: Omega-3 fats have proven benefits for circulation and blood lipids, such as cholesterol and triglycerides. Research in humans has shown that purified omega-3 fish oil supplements (e.g. PharmaOmega Cardio) (link to the Cardio detail page) can be taken along with medications such as Lipitor, often with an additive benefit, such as healthier cholesterol and lower triglycerides. Be sure to tell your doctor what supplements you are taking.
Q: Is PharmaOmega safe to take with Coumadin?
A: Some studies have shown that omega-3 fish oil can increase bleeding times, although typically not to an unsafe extent. Therefore, to be safe, if you are taking an anticoagulant (blood thinner) like Coumadin, have your physician periodically check your clotting times to ensure that they remain at acceptable levels.
Q: My doctor has me on a diuretic for my heart disease. Is omega-3 fish oil okay for me to take?
A: Omega-3 fish oil is highly beneficial to those who have, or are at risk for, heart disease. If you are currently taking a diuretic like HydroDiuril or Lozol, be sure to consult your doctor as dosage levels of the medication may need to be adjusted when used in conjunction with omega-3 supplements.
Q: I’m on a beta-blocker. Can I take omega-3 fish oil?
A: Fish oil supplements have been shown to benefit those who suffer from high blood pressure or hypertension. Therefore, if you have been prescribed a beta-blocker like Tenormin or Lopressor for hypertension, high blood pressure, angina, chest pain or heart attack, omega-3 supplements can have an additive benefit. As always, consult your physician before making changes to your diet or health regimen.
Q: Is omega-3 fish oil better than Lipitor for cholesterol?
A: In published research, concentrated omega-3 supplements have been shown to effectively complement these types of medications. Fish oil improves overall blood lipids, improves blood pressure and reduces triglycerides. In addition, omega-3 fish oil (EPA and DHA) promotes better circulation and overall heart health.
Click here to submit your question to our expert Wellness Coaching staff.