Increasing your consumption of fish could help protect your arteries from fatty build-up, according to new research.
Scientists at Columbia University Medical Center investigated how omega-3 fatty acids found in certain types of fish can prevent the accumulation of fat in the hearts major artery.
Dr. Richard J. Deckelbaum and colleagues divided mice into three groups: one received a balanced diet, the second was given a diet high in saturated fat and the third ate a high-fish diet.
They found that fish oils had the ability to block cholesterol buildup in arteries by inhibiting the entrance of LDL cholesterol.
The researchers propose the effect is connected to the way that fatty acids can significantly reduce a molecule that traps “bad” cholesterol in the arterial wall.
Tuna, sardines and salmon are three types of fish with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
For optimal arterial health, you can also take nutritional supplements containing the same long-chain fatty acids EPA and DHA that are present in cold-water fish, Decklebaum added.