Washington, Mar 11 (ANI): Increasing the dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids, whether from dietary sources or fish oil supplements reduces the risk of coronary artery disease, suggests a researcher.

Omega fatty acids are known to benefit cardiovascular system. Dr James OKeefe, a cardiologist from the Mid America Heart Institute in Kansas City, Mo., through a randomised trail highlighted the protective effects and dosing associated with the use of these fatty acids.

The two omega-3 fatty acids, known as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) found in fish oils provide protection against artery disease.

The study was conducted over 32,000 participants, who randomly received omega-3 fatty acid supplements containing DHA and EPA or to act as controls.

These trials showed reductions in cardiovascular events of 19 percent to 45 percent, said OKeefe

Overall, these findings suggest that intake of omega-3 fatty acids, whether from dietary sources or fish oil supplements, should be increased, especially in those with or at risk for coronary artery disease, he added.

While suggesting amount of fish oil to be incorporate into the diets, Dr. OKeefe said that people with coronary artery disease should consume about 1 gram per day, while people without disease should consume at least 500 milligrams (mg) per day.

Patients with high triglyceride levels can benefit from treatment with 3 to 4 grams daily of DHA and EPA. Research shows that this dosage lowers triglyceride levels by 20 to 50 percent, he said.

He also said that combination of omega-3 fatty acids and a statin, cholesterol-lowering medications is an effective way to improve lipid levels and cardiovascular health ahead of the benefits provided by statin therapy alone.

The report appears in the March issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings. (ANI)