Omega-3s lower blood pressure!

Well, looks like those Omega-3s have done it again. Every time I turn around it seems yet another study has been conducted on the benefits of consuming foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Recent studies have linked Omega-3s to heart health and possible weight loss. The article du jour covers a study comparing the eating habits and blood pressure of over 4500 adults.

As one might suspect, those participants who consumed foods containing Omega-3s had slightly lower blood pressure. Although that might not seem significant, Dr. Hirotsugu Ueshima of the study was quick to point out that "With blood pressure, every millimeter counts." He added that the effect of the Omega-3s was cumulative. According to Dr. Ueshima, "The effect of each nutrient is small but independent so together they can add up to a substantial impact on blood pressure."

Foods such as fatty fish, walnuts, flax seed oil and canola oil all contain Omega-3 fatty acids. It was noted in the article that consuming such foods along with a limited salt and alcohol consumption and avoiding weight gain would make a big difference.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can lead to stroke, heart failure, heart attack, failing kidneys and loss of vision.