For heart failure patients whose condition is controlled with standard care, omega-3 fatty acid fish oil supplements appear to improve their condition even more, according to a study at Northwestern University.
“Adding n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, even in patients that had a major improvement (on standard treatment), showed a further improvement in heart function and exercise capacity,” said study co-author Dr. Mihai Gheorghiade, a professor of cardiology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine.
Gheorghiade cautioned that this study is not conclusive, but nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids might extend life and quality of life for these patients.
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.
The American Heart Association also recommends that people get omega-3 fatty acids for heart health, with at least two servings a week of fatty fish, such as tuna, sardines or salmon, mackerel, herring or lake trout.
Heart related diseases remain the number one cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. In addition, 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.
Keep in mind that life insurance premiums are currently at an industry all-time low, which makes getting coverage even more affordable.