Nutritional deficiencies are linked to heart disease risk for millions, a new study warns

Global omega-3 deficiency affects 76% of people worldwide, significantly increasing the risks of heart disease, cognitive decline and chronic inflammation.

A new study warns that nutritional deficiencies are linked to the risk of heart disease for millions of people

More than three-quarters of the global population is falling short on omega-3 intake, a nutrient gap that may increase the risk of heart disease, cognitive decline, inflammation and vision problems.

This is according to research published in Nutrition Research Review, in which researchers from the University of East Anglia, the University of Southampton and Holland & Barrett compared omega-3 consumption patterns in different countries and different generations.

The review found that 76% of people worldwide do not meet recommended levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), two omega-3 fats essential for heart health.

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The analysis took into account recommendations from global health authorities and assessed how closely populations follow them.

Most adults aim for at least 250 mg of EPA and DHA per day. This is despite the fact that actual intakes are much lower in many regions.

To explore the health implications of low omega-3 intake, Fox News Digital spoke with Michelle Rutenstein, a preventive cardiology dietitian at New York-based Whole Nutrition.

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The expert emphasized that low levels of omega-3 can have a significant impact on heart health, cognition, and inflammation throughout the body.

Low intake can also increase the risk of heart attacks and sudden cardiac death, she added.It is also associated with higher triglycerides, irregular heart rhythms and plaque in the arteries.

Inadequate omega-3 levels are also associated with changes in brain function, including accelerated cognitive decline, increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and increased depression.

Routhenstein noted that low levels can also worsen inflammation in autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis and can negatively affect eye health, as omega-3 plays a key role in the retina.

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To boost your omega-3 levels, experts say it's important to understand how much you need and where to get it.

"Foods rich in EPA and DHA are fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, trout and anchovies," Routhenstein told Fox News Digital.

Many people benefit from eating fatty fish more often, often three to four times a week, Routhenstein noted.For people who do not eat fish regularly, supplements can help increase EPA and DHA to healthier levels.

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For those taking omega-3 supplements, dosage should be based on lab results, medications, omega-3 levels and general health history, Routhenstein said.Moderate, quality-controlled supplements are considered safe for most people.

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There is also some evidence to support the formula power of OMEGA-3 products.

“High doses of EPA, such as 4 grams of icosapent ethyl per day, have been shown to reduce major cardiovascular events in certain high-risk populations, but similar doses of the EPA/DHA mixture have not always shown the same benefit,” Routhenstein said.

Testing omega-3 levels can also help determine whether intake is sufficient.The omega-3 index, a blood test that measures EPA and DHA in red blood cells, is considered one of the most reliable ways to diagnose the condition.

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"A level of about 8% is associated with reduced heart risk, while a level of less than about 4% is considered low," Ruthenstein said.

Understanding baseline levels can help you make more personalized decisions about diet and supplementation.

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Those who are unsure of their omega-3 status or whether supplementation is appropriate should speak with a health professional to determine the best approach.

Original article source: Nutritional deficiencies linked to heart disease risk for millions, new study warns