Chapter 10 Fish, n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Cardiovascular Disease Flashcards
Discuss the evidence concerning the relationship between the intake of fish and fish oil and the risk of cardiovascular disease
observational studies suggest that fish intake and or n-3 PUFA protects against coronary heart disease.
some studies unfortunately have shown no association between fish consumption and CHD risk.
AHA has indicated that perhaps n-3 PUFA is protective in those that have high risk of CHD and also in those when fish consumption is habitually low. 10.4.1
What are the suggested mechanisms by which fish oil may be protective against heart disease?
Fish especially oily fish are high in fatty acids DHA and EPA
Discuss the effects of n-3 fatty acids on health, other than cardiovascular disease.
n-3 general effects on health
-reduced thrombosis and hemostasis
-reduced atherosclerosis plaque growth and -increased plaque stability
-improved endothelial function
-reduced inflammatory response
as well as the CVD effects
-reduced triglycerides
-lowered BP
-decreased risk of arrythmias
10.4.5
also positive association between EPA ad DHA with prostate and breast cancer in vitro
positive association with RA (rheumatoid arthritis)
Diabetes–increased intake of n-3 PUFA may be associated with and increased risk of type 2 diabetes by lowering cholesterol BUT raising LDL-C
outline current opinion concerning the effect of n-3 fatty acids on Alzheimer’s disease and the
risk of cancer. 10.6.2 and 10.6.3
EPA and DHA have consistently been shown to inhibit the proliferation of breast and prostate cancer cell lines in vitro.
Also a positive association with alzhemier’s disease
discuss special concerns that apply to pregnant women in relation to the consumption of fish 10.6.1
frequent consumption of fish esp during third trimester is impt for optimal fetal brain and retina development.
however there is a risk of mercury toxicity
