White fish like cod can help heart health too, say researchers – Fishupdate.com

White fish like cod can help heart health too, say researchers Published:  25 July, 2012

POPULAR white fish species like cod may contain more health-giving Omega-3 benefits  than previously thought, new research from Norway has found.

Most fish contains Omega-3, but the highest concentrations are usually to be found in oily varieties such as salmon, mackerel and sardines. Because of this most doctors and nutritionists recommend that oily fish should be eaten at least once a week, along with white fish, for good heart health. However, a recent new study of lean fish such as cod can increase the levels of Omega-3 fatty acids in the blood. The research was headed by Vibeke Counter-Hansen at the Centre for controlled dietary studies at University College in Oslo and Akershus, also in Norway. The study found that although lean fish contain small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids compared with oily fish like salmon, we found that the cod reduces the level of triglycerides.

The research group has studied the health effects of omega-3 fatty acids in humans both normal and high weight people. The team measured blood markers and body composition, in addition to gene expression.

Thirty young, normal weight and healthy subjects participated in the experiment where participants were randomly divided into groups. One group got the salmon, one got the cod, and a control group received potato.

After fifteen days with a daily intake of 150 grams, they saw that both salmon and cod reduced triglycerides in the blood, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular (heart) disease. The researchers said it was interesting that cod could have such an effect in a short period of time.  The findings also supported previous research showing that consumption of cod has positive health effects.