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What You Should Know about Omega-3 Fatty Acids Eating a well-balanced diet is one of the best ways to promote heart health. An essential element of any nutritious diet, omega-3 fatty acids can lower high cholesterol and promote positive overall health. commonly found in fish. Based on studies of populations that consume high quantities of fish, researchers have found these acids play a vital role in lowering some types of "bad" cholesterol levels and can have the same impact as some triglyceride-lowering medications. Even when consumed in moderation, omega-3 fatty acids have the potential to offer a number of cardiovascular benefits. O "Regular consumption of EPA and DHA can reduce high blood pressure and triglycerides, while raising good cholesterol levels," explains Jonathan Vafai, MD, FACC, cardiologist with Heart Specialists of Central Jersey and on the medical staff at CentraState Medical Center. "By eating at least two servings of oily fish per week, it is easy to incorporate the recommended 250 mg per day of these fatty acids." For individuals whose diets aren't high in fish, nutritional supplements can provide the boost of fatty acids without the need to consume seafood. Taking at least 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids daily can contribute to keeping your heart and body healthy. For information about cardiology services or to find a CentraState cardiologist to meet your health needs, visit www.centrastate.com and select "Cardiology Services." To find a CentraState dietitian, call (732) 308-0570. HD Meet the Doc: Jonathan Vafai, MD Jonathan Vafai, MD Medical specialty: Consultative cardiology and noninvasive diagnostic testing Medical school: New York University School of Medicine Residency: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Boston, MA Cardiology fellowship: North Shore-LIJ Health System; Manhasset, NY Board certifi cations: Internal medicine, cardiology, and nuclear cardiology What led you to the medical fi eld? My father is a physician, and I had a strong interest in science and technology. Following in the family footsteps and pursuing these interests eventually led me to medicine. What interested you in cardiology in particular? I have always been fascinated by the study of the heart. I also fi nd caring for patients with cardiac problems to be very fulfi lling. Whether I am caring for a person with an acute problem, or helping see them through a chronic illness, I enjoy getting to know my patients and their families and tailoring therapy appropriately. What brought you to Monmouth County? I grew up in Middlesex, NJ, and had a strong desire to live and work near where I grew up. When the opportunity to move closer to home arose, I knew I had to take it. Offi ce: Heart Specialists of Central Jersey, LLP 901 West Main Street, Suite 205 Freehold, NJ 07728 (732) 866-0800 www.heart-nj.com www.centrastate.com November/December 2011 mega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are most 9 GOT A MINUTE?