Omega-3 fatty acid supplements can help promote heart
healing after a cardiac arrest, says a new study. High doses of omega-3 fatty
acids, derived from fish oil, can make your heart healthy if taken for six
months after a cardiac arrest. This essential nutrient reduces scarring of
heart muscles and increases the heart’s ability to pump blood, according to a
new research.
After a heart attack, the shape and function of the
heart alter. This condition is referred as post-heart attack remodeling. It is
linked with poor prognosis and could lead to death due to heart failure. There
are no specific interventions to prevent this remodeling.
Previous studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids (extracted
from fish oil) increased the survival rate of patients who have the history of
heart attack. However, the role of this nutrient in improving the structure and
function of the heart was idiopathic.
In a new study, researchers have found that a daily
dose of omega-3 fatty acids (4gms) for six months helped in improving the
overall structure and function of the heart in patients with the history of
cardiac arrest. The findings revealed that this nutrient is safe and effective
in ameliorating post-heart attack remodeling. This can reduce the incidence of death
due to heart failure.
Furthermore, experts suggest that omega-3 fatty acids help
the heart to contract better and reduce scarring or fibrosis. Researchers also
found that this nutrient has anti-inflammatory properties.
The study was conducted on 360 heart attack survivors.
Half of them were give high doses of omega-3 fatty acids, while remaining were
kept on placebo. All the patients were under physician’s observation and care. Patients
who were given omega-3 supplements showed remarkable improvement in their heart
function. Moreover, they found it to be safe and effective.
Considering these findings, it seems logical that
people who take omega-3 supplements
can have a lower risk of cardiac arrest or heart failure. However, it is better
to talk to a medical professional before taking any supplement.
