Fats for Good Cholesterol

Having high blood levels of the omega-3 fats EPA and DHA improves cholesterol and triglycerides, and reduces risk for heart disease, according to a study of 276 Australian women and men between the ages of 65 and 95. The study, published in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, used a blood test called the omega-3 index, which measures omega-3 levels in red blood cells. The test is well validated as a marker of heart health and is available through health practitioners. Fish oil and algal sources of EPA and DHA can improve levels.