Global heart health under threat due to nutrient gap

Heart disease may be linked to a deficiency not many are aware of.

As of now, more than three-quarters of the global population is falling short on omega-3 intake, a nutrient gap that may increase the risk of heart disease, cognitive decline, inflammation and vision problems.

This is according to an analysis published in Nutrition Research Reviews, in which researchers from the University of East Anglia, the University of Southampton and Holland & Barrett analyzed omega-3 intake patterns across multiple countries and age groups.

The review found that 76% of people worldwide are not meeting the recommended levels of two omega-3 fats that are essential for heart health: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

According to researchers, most adults should aim for at least 250 milligrams of EPA and DHA per day, though actual intake is far lower in many regions.

In a conversation with Fox News Digital, Michelle Routhenstein, a New York–based preventive cardiology dietitian at Entirely Nourished, spoke of the health implications of low omega-3 intake.

Low omega-3 levels can have a noticeable impact on heart health, cognitive function and inflammation throughout the body, the expert confirmed.

Low intake can also increase the risk of heart attacks and sudden cardiac death, she added.

"The richest dietary sources of EPA and DHA are oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, trout and anchovies," Routhenstein told Fox News Digital before concluding, "Levels around 8% are associated with lower cardiovascular risk, while levels below approximately 4% are considered low.”