Research

Hormonal

Reducing the dietary omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio from typical Western levels (15:1) to 4:1 or lower significantly reduces total mortality and cardiovascular disease risk.

To lower your risk of heart disease and total mortality, change your cooking oils. Replace corn, soybean, or sunflower oils (high in omega-6) with olive oil and canola oil (higher in omega-3). Aim for a ratio of 4 parts omega-6 to 1 part omega-3. This involves eating more plants, nuts, and legumes while reducing processed foods high in seed oils.

GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
In the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, a ratio of 4/1 was associated with a 70% decrease in total mortality.
Artemis P. Simopoulos · Food Reviews International · 2004

Why this rating

Based on multiple cited intervention trials (Lyon Heart Study, GISSI, Indo-Mediterranean) showing significant mortality reductions.

Source

Omega-6/Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acid Ratio and Chronic Diseases

Artemis P. Simopoulos · Food Reviews International · 2004

DOI 10.1081/fri-120028831

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DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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