More Evidence that Fish Protects Against Cardio Disease

An analysis of several large studies involving participants from more than 60 countries, lead by researchers from McMaster University and published in JAMA Internal Medicine, has found that eating fatty fish regularly can help prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) in high-risk individuals, such as those who already have heart disease or stroke.

People who have had or who were at high risk for CVD reduced their risk of heart attack, stroke or heart failure by 16% if they ate at least two servings of fatty fish per week. They also showed an 18% lower risk of dying from any cause over the 8 year long study period than those who consumed one serving or less per month.

The critical ingredient is omega-3 fatty acids, which researchers found was associated with a lower risk of major CVD events such as heart attacks and strokes. "There is a significant protective benefit of fish consumption in people with cardiovascular disease," said lead co-author Andrew Mente, associate professor of research methods, evidence, and impact at McMaster and a principal investigator at the Population Health Research Institute.

To reduce the risk of exposure to high levels of mercury sometimes found in fatty fish stick to salmon, sardines and canned light tuna.