Researchers recruited 51 adults into a randomized, double-blind,
placebo-controlled study on omega-3 fats and heart disease risk
factors. The participants were randomly selected to drink
fortified dairy products that provided 3 grams of omega-3 fats
per day or regular dairy. After 15 weeks, the participants had a
10-week washout period during which they did not receive either
dairy product. After the washout period, the participants were
crossed over to the other group for another 15 weeks. Blood
levels of omega-3 fats, the ratio of omega-3 to other fats,
total cholesterol, and triglycerides were measured before,
during, and after the study. At the end of the 15-week period of
consuming omega-3-fortified dairy, the researchers noted
significant improvements in cardiovascular risk factors, as
measured in blood levels: - Omega-3 fatty acids increased - The
ratio of arachidonic acid (AA, a less-healthy fat) to omega-3s
improved - Total cholesterol levels decreased - Triglyceride
levels decreased Know your fats T