Did you know that you could eat sardines every day for several months and never have to open the same artistically designed tin twice? There is even a subculture of sardine enthusiasts who collect various tins and then blog about them.

But sardines' virtues extend beyond their coveted taste and packaging.

A recent in-depth review of 40 clinical trials involving more than 135,000 participants shows just how smart it is to eat foods like sardines that are rich in the omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).

The study, which was published in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings, found that EPA and DHA supplementation — with an average daily dose of 1,220 mg — reduced the risk of fatal heart attacks by 35% and heart disease associated deaths by 9%. Supplementation also reduced the overall incidence of heart attacks by 13% and heart disease by 10%.

Other studies have found these two omega-3s also lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, macular degeneration, and certain cancers.

As with every nutrient, the best source for EPA and DHA is food. Fatty fish such as salmon, anchovies, and sardines are loaded with them. Sardines deliver 2,000 mg in each 3-ounce serving.

But even if you're incorporating these foods into your diet, you probably aren't getting enough omega-3s. Ask your doctor if a supplement of fish or algal oil (900 mg at least) is right for you, especially if you're at increased risk for cardiovascular disease.