50+Guides
Wellness

Omega-3s and Heart Health After 50: What You Need to Know

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for adults over 50. Here's why omega-3 fatty acids may be one of the simplest steps you can take.

5

By 50Plus, 50PlusGuides.com

Published March 17, 2026 · 6 min read

Share
Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure
Omega-3s and Heart Health After 50: What You Need to Know

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, and risk increases significantly after 50. The good news is that many risk factors are modifiable — and nutrition plays a major role.

Among the most studied nutritional interventions for heart health are omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These essential fats aren't produced by your body — you must get them from food or supplements.

What the Research Shows

The American Heart Association has long recommended omega-3 fatty acids for cardiovascular support. Research has shown that adequate omega-3 intake may support healthy blood pressure levels, promote healthy triglyceride levels, support a healthy inflammatory response throughout the cardiovascular system, and contribute to overall heart rhythm regularity.

A landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that higher omega-3 intake was associated with a significant reduction in cardiovascular events among adults with elevated risk factors.

Food Sources vs. Supplements

The best food sources of EPA and DHA include fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and anchovies. The AHA recommends eating fish at least twice per week. However, many Americans don't meet this recommendation consistently — which is where supplementation can help fill the gap.

What We Recommend

Omega3 Prime from TriVita provides 1,000 mg of omega-3 fatty acids per serving, including 670 mg EPA and 125 mg DHA in just two easy-to-swallow soft gels. The fish oil is sourced from the oceans of Peru and undergoes stringent quality control to ensure purity and limit oxidation — which eliminates fishy odor and aftertaste.

What We Recommend

Omega3 Prime™

What we recommend

Omega3 Prime™

Premium fish oil providing 1,000 mg omega-3s per serving (670 mg EPA, 125 mg DHA). May support heart, joint, and brain health.

Shop Now — $24.99
Essential D™

What we recommend

Essential D™

Vitamin D3 with 5,000 IU per soft gel — the bioavailable form your body produces naturally. May support bone, cardiovascular, and immune health.

Shop Now — $14.99
VitaDaily™

What we recommend

VitaDaily™

Once-daily multivitamin with 24 vitamins and minerals including complete B complex. No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Shop Now — $14.99

The Bottom Line

Supporting your heart health after 50 involves many factors — regular exercise, stress management, a healthy diet, and appropriate medical care. Adding omega-3 fatty acids through diet and supplementation may be one of the simplest, most well-researched steps you can take.

As always, consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, particularly if you take blood-thinning medications or have existing cardiovascular conditions.

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products mentioned in this article are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
WellnessOver 50HealthWellness