By Life Quotes, Inc. Staff

A Northwestern University study has found that heart failure patients whose conditions are stabilized through standard treatments can further improve their condition by taking fish oil supplements.

Dr. Mihai Gheorghiade, co-author of the study, hopes that the findings open the possibility of “natural therapy in the management of heart failure.”

The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, showed the results of a one year observation of 133 patients being treated for heart failure.

At the end of the year, those who had been treated with 2 grams of Omega-3 fatty acid supplements in addition to standard treatment showed a 5.4 percent higher increase in heart function over those who were given a placebo. Those being treated with the supplements also experienced increases in blood oxygen levels and exercise stamina, while the placebo group saw decreases in both areas.

Though the study shows that the use of this supplement could possibly extend the lives of those who have endured heart failure, the results are not conclusive. Heart related diseases remain the number one cause of death in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and those at high risk for heart disorders should consider investing in a life insurance policy to provide for their families in the event of their death.

This article was originally published by Life Quotes, Inc.