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Diet rich in fish may support heart health, experts say

Category: Heart Health and Cholesterol

For individuals who have received unhealthy cholesterol test results, eating more fish may help them improve their heart health and avoid cardiovascular disease, according to a group of experts.

Cardiovascular researchers from across Europe met as part of the recent EuroPRevent 2012 conference. One discussion at the event focused entirely on the cardiovascular benefit of a diet rich in fish, which provides individuals with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids.

Philip Calder, a researcher from the University of Southampton in the UK, said evidence has shown that omega-3s can help reduce a person's chances of developing heart disease. Despite this, many people in the general public remain unaware of the importance of getting more omega-3-rich fish into their diet.

It is the job of physicians to explain to patients the benefits of eating more fish, Calder said. This may particularly benefit individuals who have risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol. Encouraging these individuals to eat more fish may have a positive effect on rates of heart disease.