Does Omega 3 Raise HDL?
Lipids function as membrane components in animals. These are primarily composed of phospholipids that participate in the transport of triacylglycerols and cholesterol. Triacylglycerols are esters formed by glycerol and fatty acids. The essential types of fatty acids include linolenic acid, linoleic acid and arachidonic acid.
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What is HDL?
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Lipids linked to proteins are called lipoproteins. The most common lipoprotein is high-density lipoprotein (HDL). It transfers excess cholesterols from tissues to the liver for excretion.
Importance of HDL
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HDL is acknowledged as the "good cholesterol" because it lowers the total serum cholesterol level in our body, thus preventing atherogenesis.
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What is Omega 3?
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Omega 3 is also known as linolenic acid, which is a long, polyunsaturated fatty acid. It is an essential fatty acid, which means humans can't synthesize it.
Omega-3 Formation
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Omega 3 is formed by hydrolyzing triacylglycerol and undergoing a beta-oxidation cycle. Nutritionist have found that fish or fish oils have essential fatty acids, which is why we are being urged to substitute fish for red meat.
Benefits from Omega 3
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Omega 3 lowers plasma cholesterol level and, thus, prevents the development of atherosclerotic plaque. It also lowers triacylglycerol or fats, therefore, preventing obesity. With that said, Omega 3 does increase HDL because it produces the same "good cholesterol" effect on our body.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Fish and fish oils are good source of omega-3 fatty acids. (Image by Michelle McKee)
