Fish oil reduces blood pressure swings and helps control stress

The intake of Omega 3 EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) reduces the variations in blood pressure associated with stress. This is the conclusion of a study published in the journal Biological Psychology, the result of work by researchers from Allegheny College in Meadville, United States. The news confirms the benefits of these nutrients for cardiovascular health.

Stress, heart, and Omega-3

Excessive reactivity of the cardiovascular system to stressful situations is a risk factor for the development of  cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, an exaggerated response also increases the likelihood that these diseases will be fatal. In fact, accumulated stress leads to:

- excessive demand for blood from the circulatory system;

- reduced blood flow to cells;

- increased inflammation levels.

All these factors cause damage to the cardiovascular system. An unbalanced diet can also have harmful effects on the heart and blood vessels. A typical diet of modern Western countries, rich in Omega-6 fatty acids but poor in Omega-3, seriously endangers cardiovascular health.

Omega-3 to protect heart and arteries

Several studies have shown that Omega-3 fatty acids can improve the activity of the cardiovascular system. For this reason, researchers at Allegheny College decided to analyze the effect of administering these nutrients on cardiovascular function. The 34 participants in the study, all young and healthy, were randomly assigned to one of two groups:

- participants in the first group took a mixture equal to 1.4 grams of Omega-3 EPA and DHA for 21 days;

- participants in the second group were given a placebo without these fatty acids.

The scientists then assigned all individuals arithmetic exercises consisting of serial subtractions starting from a four-digit number. During the tests, cardiovascular system function parameters were evaluated. In particular, the response of the heart and arteries to mental stress situations, such as those occurring during these exercises, was measured. Based on the collected data, researchers concluded that EPA and DHA intake, but not the placebo, reduces the blood pressure reactivity to stress.

Omega-3 to protect the heart from stress

According to the authors, this research shows that the intake of Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce cardiovascular activity variations associated with stress. The discovery adds new details to the picture of Omega-3 benefits for the heart, which include control of blood fat levels, antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory action, and the reduction of risk of dangerous events such as heart attack.