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The use of omega-3 oils in the reduction of cholesterol and in the subsequent reduction in plaque formation and heart disease is well established. This is true for vegans and non-vegans alike. While most people believe that omega-3 oils have sources only in fish oils, there are ways to obtain the same protection against elevated cholesterol using plant sources. For example, perilla oil (or flaxseed oil) has been shown to increase the levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in the body. The red microalgae species, Porphyridium crentum, contains significant amounts of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The primary source of omega-3 fatty acids in plant and nut sources is that of alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), which exerts a beneficial effect on the body by converting to eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid inside the human body. For those interested in supplementing their diet with EPA using plant sources, consider a product which is extracted from microalgae or those that contain ALA, which ultimately provides you with the EPA you may need for an elevated cholesterol.

Chris Traxler, MD

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