Interní Med. 2007; 9(6): 262-264

Omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular diseases

MUDr. Michal Vrablík Ph.D

III. interní klinika VFN a 1. LF UK, Praha

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and their effect not only on cardiovascular system have been attracting attention of professionals and public already for many years. The result are thousands of articles and many books that focus especially on consummation of fish derived omega-3 fatty acids (to a lesser extent also plant derived fatty acids) and their effect on cardiovascular system. An increase in consummation of fish oil or supplements with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are components of most professional guidelines for prevention of cardiovascular events. In spite of large amount of information from laboratory, experimental and clinical studies many questions persist. What type and form of omega-3 fatty acids is the most beneficial for cardiovascular system? What is a suitable daily dose? What mechanism is the most important in prevention of stroke? What is tolerance of food supplements containing fish oil? We will try to find answers to some of these questions in the following text.

Keywords: omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil, cardiovascular disease, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid

Published: November 9, 2007  Show citation