The Benefits of Omega-3 Fats for Stabilizing and Remodeling Atherosclerosis

The majority of acute coronary syndromes are caused by the rupture of plaques rendered vulnerable by oxidized lipids, inflammation, and a thin fibrous cap with reduced collagen and smooth muscle cell content.2 Thus, stabilizing and reversing vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques can help to prevent cardiovascular events. In this regard, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids have a plethora of data for stabilizing vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques as well as reversing atherosclerosis. This review paper will summarize the observational data as well as animal and human studies supporting such a role and further discuss the current controversies around omega-3 supplementation.