While it may strike some people as surprising, one of the most effective ways to combat cholesterol levels in the blood is by eating a food high in oil: fish oil. Countless studies, including some backed by the American Heart Association have linked the consumption of fish oil to the reduction in high levels of cholesterol. In addition, a regular supplementation of fish oil, coupled with a healthy diet and exercise, can help keep the levels low. Here is why.

Fish oil is naturally high in omega 3 fatty acids. These super foods work to aid nearly any bodily process imaginable. Among their array of physical and mental health benefits, the omega 3 compounds in fish oil play an integral role in helping maintain a healthy blood pressure. The helpful acids in the fish oil carry out a three pronged attack against cholesterol. First, they prevent the buildup of triglycerides. Second, they encourage the development of high density lipoproteins, or "good" cholesterol. Finally, they help to prevent harmful blood clotting and actually thin the blood.

One of the key factors often leading to heat disease (and heart attacks, for that matter) is high cholesterol levels. The leading cause for high cholesterol levels is the abundance of triglycerides in the blood. This is especially true with women. Tests have shown that women taking fish oil supplements were able to lower their triglyceride levels up to 35%. This is enough to significantly reduce the chances of a heart attack.

In addition to reducing the amount of harmful triglycerides, fish oil encourages the levels of high density lipoproteins. This "good" cholesterol helps the body balance the overall cholesterol levels in the blood. Studies have shown that fish oil can help raise high density lipoprotein levels in women and men up to 30%.

While maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is certainly an important part of preventing heart disease and other cardiovascular occurrences, some heart attack and stroke victims did not have particularly high levels of triglycerides. The fact is, what actually causes these dreadful cardiovascular occurrences is when clots in the blood block the blood flow to either the heart of the brain. One of the most remarkable characteristics of the omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil is their ability to reduce clotting and even thin the blood. Studies have shown that an addition of fish oil as a daily supplement reduces the risk of a heart attack by 50%.

With all of these benefits, it is no wonder so many cardiovascular physicians recommend fish oil to their patients. However, since most of its benefits are preventative, why not start using omega 3 fish oil today and start saving your heart?