Omega-3 fatty acids help the heart in a number of ways. They reduce inflammation in the blood vessels (and the rest of the body). At high doses, they also reduce the chance of abnormal heart rhythms and lower the level of fats in the blood called triglycerides. Finally, they can slow the buildup of plaque inside the blood vessels.
However, most research on omega-3s has studied their benefits for heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for good health. Try to eliminate them from your diet by eating roasted or baked fish, not fried. Fish oil supplements may be helpful if you have high triglyceride levels or rheumatoid arthritis.
