Fish oil lower cholesterol
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Fish Oil and Cholesterol: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Fish Oil and Cholesterol
Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), is widely recognized for its cardiovascular benefits. However, its impact on cholesterol levels, particularly in individuals with hyperlipidemia, remains a topic of extensive research. This article synthesizes findings from multiple studies to provide a clear understanding of how fish oil affects cholesterol levels.
Fish Oil and Triglycerides
Significant Reduction in Triglycerides
Numerous studies have consistently shown that fish oil supplementation leads to a significant reduction in fasting blood triglyceride (TG) levels. A meta-analysis of 47 studies highlighted that an average daily intake of 3.25 grams of EPA and DHA resulted in a clinically significant reduction in TG levels by 0.34 mmol/L . Similarly, another study involving patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) associated with hyperlipidemia reported a decrease in TG levels by 0.58 mmol/L after three months of fish oil supplementation . These findings are corroborated by additional research indicating that both fish diets and fish oil supplements can lower fasting and postprandial TG concentrations .
Fish Oil and Total Cholesterol
No Significant Change in Total Cholesterol
The impact of fish oil on total cholesterol levels appears to be minimal. The meta-analysis of 47 studies found no significant change in total cholesterol levels with fish oil supplementation . This is supported by a randomized controlled trial which showed that fish oil did not lower plasma cholesterol in men with hypercholesterolemia . Another study also confirmed that fish oil supplementation did not significantly alter total cholesterol levels in hypertriglyceridemic patients .
Fish Oil and LDL Cholesterol
Slight Increase in LDL Cholesterol
While fish oil effectively reduces triglycerides, it has been associated with a slight increase in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. The meta-analysis reported a minor increase in LDL cholesterol by 0.06 mmol/L . This finding is echoed by a study on hypertriglyceridemic patients, which observed an increase in LDL cholesterol levels from 3.7 to 4.25 mmol/L after fish oil supplementation . Another study noted a 9.1% increase in LDL cholesterol in men with hypercholesterolemia .
Fish Oil and HDL Cholesterol
Minimal Impact on HDL Cholesterol
The effect of fish oil on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is generally minimal. The meta-analysis indicated a very slight increase in HDL cholesterol by 0.01 mmol/L . Similarly, a study involving hypertriglyceridemic patients found no significant changes in HDL cholesterol levels . However, some research suggests that fish oil may increase the HDL2/HDL3 cholesterol ratio, indicating a potential improvement in HDL quality rather than quantity .
Special Considerations: Cetoleic Acid and Omega-11 Fatty Acids
Potential Benefits of Cetoleic Acid
Recent research has explored the effects of cetoleic acid (CA), a long-chain monounsaturated fatty acid found in certain fish oils, on cholesterol levels. A meta-analysis of studies on rodents showed that CA-rich fish oils significantly lowered circulating total cholesterol concentrations . This suggests that specific components of fish oil, such as CA, may offer additional cholesterol-lowering benefits.
Omega-11 Fatty Acids
A study on saury oil, rich in omega-11 long-chain monounsaturated fatty acids, demonstrated beneficial effects on plasma lipids, including a reduction in LDL particle counts and an increase in HDL particle size . These findings highlight the potential of omega-11 fatty acids in improving lipid profiles.
Conclusion
Fish oil supplementation is effective in significantly reducing triglyceride levels, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. However, its impact on total and LDL cholesterol is less favorable, with minimal changes in total cholesterol and a slight increase in LDL cholesterol. The effects on HDL cholesterol are generally minimal. Specific components of fish oil, such as cetoleic acid and omega-11 fatty acids, may offer additional benefits and warrant further investigation. Overall, while fish oil is beneficial for lowering triglycerides, its effects on cholesterol require careful consideration and monitoring.
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