Fish and omega-3 fatty acids. If you keep up with the latest nutrition news, you may have a pretty good sense of what they offer. But, if you're like many people, you still can't tell your omega-3s from your omega-6s -- and you sure as heck can't pronounce eicosapentaenoic acid. That's OK. Our fishing expedition turned up some interesting facts to share about omega-3 fatty acids and fish.

At the risk of sounding like a certain 20-something socialite, HDL is hot! Advances in research have brought more attention to the blood lipid (or fat) we often call "good" cholesterol.

"Good" cholesterol doesn't refer to the cholesterol we eat in food, but to the high density lipoprotein cholesterol circulating in our blood. It's one of the blood fats measured in the lipid panel blood test doctors perform. And it's the component you want more of, because increasing HDL helps lower your risk of heart disease.

There are alternative treatments for lowering cholesterol naturally. But before you add any supplement or alternative therapy to your diet, talk to your doctor. Some supplements may interact with other medication you may be taking or have dangerous side effects.

Supplementing Your Heart Health: Omega-3,

Plant Sterols, and More

If you have high cholesterol, or if you're at high risk for heart disease and heart attack, you've likely had "the talk" with your doctor. For many people, making lifestyle changes is enough to lower cholesterol. Other people need medications like cholesterol-lowering statin drugs. Dietary supplements can be part of the prescription, too.
Of the $20 billion dollars spent yearly on herbs and supplements, those touted to improve heart health top the list. They range from fish oil and flaxseed oil to artichoke and garlic extracts.

Many people take vitamins and supplements to boost their heart health. Which supplements work best? How much should you take? Here are tips to help you shop wisely.

Heart-healthy foods are essential to a heart-healthy diet.
If you want to eat a heart-healthy diet but are not sure what foods you should buy, check out this heart-healthy kitchen essentials guide. From fruits and vegetables to whole grain goodness, learn what foods to keep on hand.

For people keeping track of their blood fats, triglycerides may be the new lipid to watch, researchers said. A recent study found that the percentage of U.S. adults with high triglycerides had doubled over the past three decades, likely driven by climbing obesity rates.

What Might Happen If Your High Cholesterol Level is Left Untreated?

Cholesterol and fats will continue to build a plaque formation as you age. Eventually, the possibility that your arteries will narrow to a point that a heart attack or stroke will occur increases. Also, hypertension, lack of physical activity, and smoking will exacerbate this process.