Microblog: Feed Your Heart its Preferred Fuel Source – Fatty Acids

Did you know that the heart’s preferred source of energy is fatty acids?⠀

💧One of the reasons is due to the fact that lipids require more oxygen to burn but they are cheaper to store as they do not need water for storage.⠀

🧳The body can essentially store an endless amount of lipids which then becomes an everlasting energy source.⠀

👤An average person has enough energy stored as fat to allow basal metabolism for weeks to months. In fact, many of the organs, including the liver uses fat when possible. This is impossible with glucose.⠀

💔In the case of heart failure, since the oxygen supply fails (needed with fats), the tissues switch to using glucose (glycolysis).⠀

🛡Essential fatty acids are known for their role in preventing heart disease by reducing risk factors and keeping our heart healthy and strong. In fact, a higher intake of essential fatty acids has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25161045).⠀

🐟Omega 3s have been shown to reduce triglycerides, blood pressure and the buildup of plaque in the arteries. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18561722).⠀

📚Studies show that omega 6 fatty acids may also lower some heart disease risk factors, such as blood pressure, total cholesterol and bad LDL cholesterol. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18606902).⠀

♥️This Valentine’s Day, eat the foods that take care of your heart.