Although the body can convert Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA) to EPA and DHA, this process is inefficient, so obtaining these nutrients through diet is crucial for optimal neurological health.
Predominantly, fish oil has been linked to a healthier heart, thanks to the Danish Greenland Eskimo study in the 1970s. In those with cardiovascular disease (CVD), omega-3s help reduce triglycerides, inflammation, and atherosclerosis, thus preventing blockage of the coronary artery, among other important functions.
While the use of fish oil supplements soared with the growing evidence of benefits in heart, brain and skin health, scientists have recently made another surprising discovery that warrants attention from the public.
The latest study published by a reputable journal – BMJ Medicine just last month (May 2024) highlighted two important findings:
- Regular use of fish oil for primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases may negatively affect healthy individuals.
- Those who benefit most from fish oil or omega-3 supplements are those with a history of cardiovascular disease.
The study examined information from more than 400,000 individuals aged 40 to 69 years, enrolled in the UK Biobank, a longitudinal health study in the United Kingdom.
Among healthy persons without pre-existing heart conditions, regular use of fish oil supplements was linked to a 13% increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF) and a 5% higher risk of stroke.
However, among patients with existing heart disease, the use of fish oil supplements was linked to a 15% reduced risk of a heart attack, as well as a 9% decreased risk of dying from heart failure.
This study is the latest to add to a string of studies in recent years which have reported an increased risk of atrial fibrillation amidst earlier beneficial findings.
One of the reasons for the conflicting observations was attributed to different doses used – where higher doses (1-1.5g) were associated with harm. At the same time, it’s important to recognize the study’s limitations: inadequate data on fish oil supplement dose and formulation, and a study population that is predominantly Caucasian population.
While the benefits of omega-3s in patients with cardiovascular disease remain strong, healthy persons without prior events may want to reconsider high doses of supplements due to these findings.
To date, there isn’t a universally agreed dosage of fish oil supplements for healthy individuals. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends eating oily fish at least twice a week for general health, and 1 g/day of EPA/DHA for those with heart disease.
As maintaining sufficient omega-3 levels is still crucial for the body, there are many dietary alternatives beyond fish oil supplements. Oily fish like tuna, sardines, salmon, mackerel, and herring are top sources, which can be easily incorporated into a balanced diet.
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