[Potential value of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the prevention of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases]

Arch Mal Coeur Vaiss. 1992 Jun;85(6):899-904.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Several epidemiological studies have shown decreased cardiovascular mortality and a lower incidence of coronary artery disease in subjects with high dietary intakes of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. It has since been shown that Omega-3 fatty acids have a number of beneficial effects in the prevention of atherosclerosis in man: reduction of blood pressure, modifications of lipoprotein metabolism, modifications of haemostasis (increased bleeding time and reduced platelet aggregation), decreased plasma fibrinogen, modifications of the metabolism of arachidonic acid and its derivatives (decreased thromboxane and leukotriene synthesis, increased prostacyclin synthesis). Therefore, Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have several beneficial effects on the presumed mechanisms of atherogenesis and/or its complications: they could represent an original and seductive solution to the problem of prevention of cardiovascular disease.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Arteriosclerosis / prevention & control*
  • Blood Pressure
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Eicosanoids / metabolism
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / therapeutic use*
  • Hemostasis
  • Humans
  • Triglycerides / blood

Substances

  • Eicosanoids
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Triglycerides