Long-chain omega 3 fatty acids, blood lipids and cardiovascular risk reduction

Increasing evidence suggests that omega 3 fatty acids derived from fish and fish oils may play a protective role in coronary heart disease and its man y complications, through a variety of actions, including effects on lipids, blood pressure. cardiac and vascular function, prostanoids, coagulation an d immunological responses. Interesting differences between the effects of h ighly purified eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid are emerging, which may be relevant in the choice of omega 3 fatty acid for incorporatio n into food products. On the basis of our current knowledge, we believe it is justified to recommend, particularly to high-risk populations, an increa sed dietary intake of omega 3 fatty acids through the consumption of fish, Curr Opin Lipidol 12:11-17. (C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.