Heart Association Endorses Omega-3

The Dallas, Texas-based American Heart Association (AHA) has updated its recommendations on the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids for heart health. AHA's Scientific Statement, titled Fish Consumption, Fish Oil, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Cardiovascular Disease, was published in the November 19, 2002, edition of Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association. The statement outlines the findings of a report that examined the cardiovascular health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids—docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)—from plant and fish sources. In the report AHA also notes that over consumption of the healthy fatty acid has been linked with excessive bleeding.

Since 2000, AHA has recommended that healthy people eat two servings of omega-3-containing fish per week. Some plant foods, such as nuts, beans and seeds, also contain omega-3. People with excessive triglycerides should consume more omega-3. The AHA says that many people, including those with excessive triglycerides, do not consume enough omega-3.

Boston-based investment firm Adams, Harkness & Hill (AHH) concludes in a Nov. 20 report that the AHA's statement will bode well for microalgae-products maker Martek Biosciences Corp. (NasdaqNM: MATK), which produces vegetarian, pure DHA ingredients and supplements. In response to the Heart Association statement, AHH reiterated its Strong Buy rating for MATK.