OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS MAY HELP TO REDUCE THE PHYSICAL HARM CAUSED BY SMOKING

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Omega-3Fatty Acids May Help Reduce Physical Harm Caused By Smoking

 According to a new study presented at the recent World Congress of Cardiology organized by the World Heart Federation, omega-3 fatty acids may help to reduce the physical harm caused by smoking.

The study, carried out in Greece, assessed the effect of four-week oral treatment with 2 g/day of omega-3 fatty acids on the arterial wall properties of cigarette smokers. The results showed that short-term treatment with omega-3 fatty acids improves arterial stiffness and moderates the acute smoking-induced impairment of vascular elastic properties in smokers.  

“These findings suggest that omega-3 fatty acids inhibit the detrimental effects of smoking on arterial function, which is an independent prognostic marker of cardiovascular risk,” said Dr. Gerasimos Siasos, University of Athens Medical School, 1st Department of Cardiology, “Hippokration” Hospital.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Atherosclerotic

“The cardioprotective effects of omega-3 fatty acids appear to be due to a synergism between multiple, intricate mechanisms involving anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic effects.  Furthermore, AHA recommends that people without documented history of coronary heart disease should consume a variety of fish (preferably oily – rich in omega-3 fatty acids) at least twice per week.”

“The World Heart Federation strongly encourages all smokers to quit,” said Dr Kathryn Taubert, Chief Science Officer at the World Heart Federation.

Only Way to Protect Yourself

“The only way to protect your body from the harmful effects of tobacco is to stop smoking.  We encourage all people, both smokers and non-smokers, to eat healthy diets, which includes foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids.” 

Acknowledgement by the Zestzfulness Team

The above story is based on the April 20, 2012 news release by the World Heart Federation.

The World Heart Federation is dedicated to leading the global fight against heart disease and stroke with a focus on low- and middle-income countries via a united community of more than 200 member organizations. With its members, the World Heart Federation works to build global commitment to addressing cardiovascular health at the policy level, generates and exchanges ideas, shares best practice, advances scientific knowledge and promotes knowledge transfer to tackle cardiovascular disease – the world’s number one killer.