Benefits
Healthy triglycerides
Omega-3 fatty acids reliably lower triglycerides, one of the best-established benefits of EPA and DHA for heart health.
Brain and mood support
DHA is a major structural fat in the brain, and omega-3s are studied for supporting cognition and mood.
Anti-inflammatory support
EPA and DHA shift the body toward a less inflammatory balance, supporting joints, heart, and overall health.
Mechanism of action
Membrane incorporation
EPA and DHA are built into cell membranes throughout the body, improving membrane function in the heart, brain, and eyes.
Eicosanoid balance
Omega-3s are converted into specialized signaling molecules (resolvins and prostaglandins) that help resolve inflammation.
Clinical trials
Cochrane systematic review of omega-3 fatty acids for prevention of cardiovascular disease. (Abdelhamid et al. 2020, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews)
Adults across many large trials.
Omega-3 supplementation reduced triglycerides; the review found only small effects on overall cardiovascular events, so expectations for heart-attack prevention should be modest.