By: April Graff, MS, RD, LD. Hy-Vee Dietitian

Do you want to increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids?

The consumption of omega-3s reduces inflammation within our body, especially in our blood levels. Adding additional food and supplements with omega-3 can:

• Reduce triglycerides: Triglycerides are fats that circulate in our blood and narrow our arteries, which increases our risk of stroke, heart attack and even pancreatitis. Research has found that omega-3 fats may reduce triglycerides up to 50%. The American Heart Association recommends omega-3 fish oil supplements to help lower high triglycerides.
• Decrease blood pressure: With elevated blood pressure, your risk of heart attack, heart failure and kidney failure increase. Omega-3 supplements can affect cardiovascular health in a positive manner. Adding omega-3 supplements has shown to decrease both systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) blood pressure.
• Provide immune system support: Adding in an omega-3 supplement may reduce inflammation within the body, which is connected with chronic disease overall. An omega-3 supplement may also have a beneficial effect in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, along with a possible decrease in the risk of breast cancer and colorectal cancer.

Omega-3 fats are beneficial in so many ways, and there is even research showing that intake can improve cognitive function and provide a decreased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Recipe link: Grilled Salmon and Asparagus Salad | Hy-Vee

Want to know if your Omega-3 level is optimal? Sign up for your free screening: https://app.hy-veehealthyyou.com/appointments/embed_appt?dietitian_id=609757&require_offering=true&immediate_checkout=true&offering_id=123183&hide_package_images=false&primary_color=3F3F3F