Study Found Omega 3 Fatty Acids Good For Heart Rate Recovery; 5 Foods You Can Add To Your Diet

We already know that Omega 3 fatty acids are good for heart health. But how does it influence the functioning of our heart was something not very clear till now. A new research came up with a breakthrough finding and established a link between high amount of omega 3 fatty acids and better heart rate. Earlier some studies have revealed that slow heart rate recovery (HRR) could lead to serious cardiovascular diseases including heart attack. So, it is essential to have optimal HRR for sound heart health.

Stephen W. Fares, co-author of the study published in the journal PLEFA said, "Previous studies have suggested that omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) can favorably influence cardiac autonomic tone. However, data regarding n-3 PUFA status and heart rate recovery (HRR) in healthy adults are sparse."

The research enrolled 13,912 patients at the Cooper Clinic, Dallas TX. HRR was calculated by subtracting the heart rate at 1, 3, and 5 min of an active recovery period from the maximal heart rate. Participants were categorised as having a low (<4%), normal (4-8%) or optimal (>8%) Omega-3 Index (O3I).

Higher categories of O3I were associated with greater HRR both men and women, with a steeper gradient in women. It was concluded that Omega-3 fatty acids and heart rate recovery are important for cardiovascular health.

(Also Read: Add These 5 Omega-3-Rich Foods To Your Diet For Longer and Softer Hair)

^{Omega 3 fatty acids may be good for heart health.} 

Here Are 5 Foods That Are Rich In Omega 3 Fatty Acids:

Fish

Fish is the first food recommended by doctors to increase the intake of Omega 3 fatty acids. Fatty and oily fish like salmon, mackerel, trout and sardine contain DHA and EPA - two kinds of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health.

Walnuts

Walnuts are always propagated by heart experts for heart diet. Walnuts are highly rich in antioxidants, omega-3, protein and iron. Eating just 2-3 walnuts a day can bring you immense health benefits.

Soybean

Use soybean oil in moderation for cooking your meals or drizzling on your salads. The heart-healthy fats including omega 3 in it is good for heart health. Alternatively, you can also include soybeans directly in your diet.

Seeds

Chia seeds, flax seeds and hemp seeds are excellent sources of Omega 3 fatty acids. Try to have about 1 tsp of them every day. Blend them in smoothies, or add to your breakfast cereals or salads or trail mix snack.

Brussel Sprouts

Vitamin K, vitamin C, antioxidants, fibre and, of course, Omega 3 fatty acids - all come together in this food and work wonders to improve heart function.

Make your diet heart-friendly by including these foods. (Note: These food suggestions are not included in the study.)
 

(This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)