When people think about heart health, cholesterol numbers often take centre stage. However, cardiovascular risk is not determined by cholesterol alone. One of the most important underlying factors is the gradual build-up of fatty deposits, known as atherosclerotic plaque, within the arteries. This process develops silently over many years and plays a central role in heart disease, stroke, and circulation problems.
In recent years, omega-3 fatty acids have attracted significant attention for their potential role in supporting cardiovascular health. Beyond their well-known effects on triglycerides and inflammation, researchers have explored whether omega-3s may influence the development and progression of arterial plaque itself. This has led many people to ask a very specific and often searched question:
Does omega-3 reduce artery plaque?
This article examines what arterial plaque is, how it forms, and what current scientific research suggests about omega-3 fatty acids and plaque development. Drawing on peer-reviewed studies and long-standing nutritional science, it provides a clear, evidence-aware overview to help readers make informed decisions as part of a broader heart-healthy lifestyle.
What Is Arterial Plaque and Why Does It Matter?
Arterial plaque is a build-up of fats, cholesterol, calcium, and inflammatory cells that accumulates along the inner walls of arteries. Over time, this build-up can cause arteries to narrow and stiffen, a process known as atherosclerosis. When blood flow is restricted, the heart must work harder to circulate oxygen-rich blood around the body.
Plaque is not simply a passive storage of fat. It is biologically active and closely linked to inflammation within the blood vessel wall. Unstable plaques are particularly dangerous because they can rupture, triggering blood clots that may lead to heart attacks or strokes. This is why modern cardiovascular research focuses not only on cholesterol levels, but also on plaque stability, inflammation, and arterial function.
Because plaque develops gradually, lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, smoking status, and long-term nutrient intake play a significant role in determining how quickly atherosclerosis progresses. This is where omega-3 fatty acids have become a key area of interest.
Understanding Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of polyunsaturated fats that are essential for human health. The most researched forms in relation to heart health are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which are found primarily in oily fish and high-quality fish oil supplements.
EPA and DHA play structural and functional roles in cell membranes, including those that line blood vessels. They are also involved in the production of signalling molecules that help regulate inflammation, blood clotting, and vascular tone. These mechanisms help explain why omega-3s are consistently associated with cardiovascular support in population studies.
Over decades of working with cardiovascular-focused nutritional support, we have seen consistent interest in omega-3s as part of long-term heart health strategies. Recognising their role as part of a balanced nutritional approach to heart and circulatory wellbeing. However, responsible guidance requires looking closely at what the research actually shows, rather than overstating benefits.
Does Omega-3 Reduce Artery Plaque?
The short answer is that omega-3 fatty acids are not a direct treatment for existing arterial plaque, nor do they “dissolve” plaque in the way that popular media headlines sometimes suggest. However, research indicates that omega-3s may influence several biological processes that affect how plaque develops and behaves over time.
A key area of interest is inflammation. Chronic low-grade inflammation is central to plaque progression and instability. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to support the body’s natural anti-inflammatory pathways, which may help slow plaque development and promote a more stable arterial environment.
A 2015 review published in Atherosclerosis examined the relationship between omega-3 intake and plaque characteristics. The authors concluded that EPA and DHA may help reduce inflammatory activity within plaques and improve markers associated with plaque stability, rather than dramatically shrinking plaque size itself.
This distinction is important. From a cardiovascular risk perspective, stabilising plaque and reducing inflammatory stress may be just as significant as reducing plaque volume.
What the Clinical Research Shows
Several clinical and imaging studies have explored how omega-3 supplementation influences arterial health. A notable study published in Circulation investigated patients with coronary artery disease who were given EPA alongside standard medical care. Imaging showed changes consistent with reduced plaque inflammation and improved plaque stability.
Another well-cited study published in European Heart Journal used advanced imaging techniques to assess coronary plaques. The researchers observed that higher blood levels of EPA were associated with plaques that were less likely to rupture, suggesting a protective effect on arterial integrity.
Importantly, these studies do not suggest that omega-3s replace medical treatment. Instead, they support the idea that omega-3 fatty acids can play a complementary role alongside conventional approaches, diet, and lifestyle measures.
For readers interested in reviewing the original research, the studies can be found here:
- Calder PC et al. Omega-3 fatty acids and atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis (2015).
- Budoff MJ et al. Effect of EPA on coronary plaque. European Heart Journal (2019).
How Omega-3s Fit Into a Heart-Healthy Strategy
Rather than viewing omega-3s as a single solution, they are best understood as one component of a broader cardiovascular support strategy. Their primary contributions relate to inflammation balance, triglyceride regulation, endothelial function, and plaque stability.
This aligns with guidance from organisations such as the NHS and the British Heart Foundation, which emphasise dietary patterns rich in oily fish as part of heart-healthy eating. Omega-3 intake from food or supplements is positioned as supportive, not curative.
For readers who are considering omega-3 intake as part of a long-term, heart-conscious lifestyle, the source and formulation of omega-3s matters. At Dulwich Health, omega-3 supplements are formulated with this principle in mind. They are intended to complement a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and appropriate medical care, not replace them.
Who May Benefit From Omega-3 Supplementation?
Omega-3 supplementation is commonly considered by individuals who have low oily fish intake, elevated triglycerides, or a family history of cardiovascular disease. It may also appeal to those focusing on long-term heart and circulatory support as part of healthy ageing.
As with any supplement, individual needs vary. People taking medication, managing diagnosed cardiovascular conditions, or preparing for medical procedures should seek professional guidance before introducing omega-3 supplements.
Responsible Use and Professional Guidance
Omega-3 fatty acids are widely studied and generally well tolerated, but they are not a substitute for medical treatment. They should be used responsibly, within recommended intakes, and as part of an overall lifestyle approach to cardiovascular health.
