According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), "Clinical studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may be helpful in treating a variety of health conditions." You can find omega-3 in fish oil (including supplements) and certain plant/nut oils.

High Blood Pressure

Clinical studies show diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids can lower blood pressure in individuals suffering from hypertension. UMMC claims, "An analysis of 17 clinical studies using fish oil supplements found that supplementation with three or more grams of fish oil daily can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure in individuals with untreated hypertension."

High Cholesterol

"Fish oil supplements containing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have been reported in several large clinical studies to reduce low density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol and triglyceride levels," states UMMC.

Hypertriglyceridemia

MedlinePlus claims, "There is strong scientific evidence from human trials that omega-3 fatty acids from fish or fish oil supplements significantly reduce blood triglyceride levels." However, the American Heart Association published usage information for EPA and DHA because of the risk of bleeding from omega-3 fatty acids.

Heart Disease

UMMC states, "Clinical evidence suggests that EPA and DHA found in fish oil help reduce risk factors for heart disease including high cholesterol and high blood pressure." Similarly, clinical studies of heart attack survivors found that taking omega-3 supplements daily can reduce the risk of heart-related deaths.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

"Multiple randomized controlled trials report improvements in morning stiffness and joint tenderness with the regular intake of fish oil supplements for up to three months," states MedlinePlus. Added benefits of taking fish oil with an anti-inflammatory medication (like ibuprofen or aspirin) have also been reported.

Weight Loss

Many people who are overweight suffer from high cholesterol and diabetes from poor eating habits. UMMC claims, "Clinical studies suggest that overweight people who follow a weight loss program that includes exercise tend to achieve better control over their blood sugar and cholesterol levels when fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon, mackerel, and herring) is a staple in their low-fat diet."

Source:

MedlinePlus

University of Maryland Medical Center

More Information:

Omega-3 Supplements: An Introduction