Heart disease may be related to a deficiency that not many people are aware of.
Currently, more than three-quarters of the world’s population falls short of omega-3 intake, a nutrient deficiency that can increase the risk of heart disease, cognitive decline, inflammation and vision problems.
This is evident from an analysis published in Nutrition Research Reviews, in which researchers from the University of East Anglia, the University of Southampton and Holland & Barrett analyzed omega-3 intake patterns in multiple countries and age groups.
The study found that 76% of people worldwide do not meet recommended levels of two omega-3 fats essential for heart health: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
According to researchers, most adults should aim for at least 250 milligrams of EPA and DHA per day, although actual intake is much lower in many regions.
In a conversation with Fox News digitalMichelle Routhenstein, a New York-based preventive cardiology dietitian at Entirely Nourished, spoke about the health implications of low omega-3 intake.
Low omega-3 levels can have a noticeable impact on heart health, cognitive function and inflammation throughout the body, the expert confirmed.
Low intake can also increase the risk of heart attacks and sudden cardiac death, she added.
“The richest dietary sources of EPA and DHA are oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, trout and anchovies,” Routhenstein said. Fox News digital before concluding: “Levels around 8% are associated with lower cardiovascular risk, while levels below around 4% are considered low.”
