Here's a really simple way to help lower your cholesterol: fish oil. I know you may have heard various claims about this on the news or in a magazine, but I'm here to tell you that it's true. Let me explain.

As you probably already know, there are two major lipoproteins in cholesterol: HDL (high-density) and LDL (low-density). High-density is considered "good" while low-density is considered "bad". Here's why: low-density lipoproteins are taken up by receptors on various cells, which means that they stick around to various parts of the body, such as your arteries. Overtime, the accumulation of it can lead to clogged arteries and other deadly heart problems.

On the other hand, HDL works like Pacman, picking up cells such as LDL and transporting them either to other fat cells in the body or directly to the liver, thereby keeping the "bad" lipoproteins from clogging arteries and causing other problems. Therefore, high levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease while low levels are associated with a higher risk, and vice versa for LDL.

So where does fish oil come in?

First, the fatty acids found in oily fish are very effective at preventing clumpiness and stickiness in the blood, therefore increasing blood flow throughout the body, including the arteries.

Second, the DHA present in omega 3 fatty acids has been proven to lower the levels of small, dense particles of low-density lipoproteins, which are associated with heart disease.

Third, while total high-density levels remain unchanged by omega 3 supplements, larger, more buoyant particles are increased, which is beneficial to cardiovascular health.

There have been numerous studies done about the link between the fatty acids found in fish oil and lowered cholesterol, however that's not the only health benefit of omega 3 fatty acids. It's also linked to lowered triglycerides, lowered blood pressure, reduced heart irregularities such as arrhythmia, and decreased circulatory problems as well as numerous other benefits for overall health.



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