More Good News for Fish Eaters

Young women may reduce their risk of heart disease simply by eating more fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, according to new research. Nearly 50,000 women of childbearing age participated in the study. Those who seldom or never ate fish had 50 percent more cardiovascular problems over an eight-year period than those who consumed it regularly. Compared to those who ate omega-3-rich fish weekly, the risk was 90 percent higher for women who rarely or never ate it. The most common fish consumed by women in the study were cod, salmon, herring, and mackerel.

“Women who eat fish should find the results encouraging, but it is important to emphasize that to obtain the greatest benefit from fish and fish oils, women should follow the dietary recommendations to eat fish as a main meal at least twice a week,” said lead researcher Marin Strom, PhD.