Clinical trial results involving fish oil (omega-3) supplements have been mixed. Some studies even show that they may be harmful to your health.
For example, VITAL, a study of nearly 26,000 American adults ages 50 and older with no history of heart disease, stroke, or cancer, found the following. Taking 1 gram of omega-3 supplements per day did not significantly reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular disease. But when scientists compared those who ate more fish before taking the supplements with those who ate less fish, they found that higher amounts of omega-3 were associated with a statistically significant 19% reduction in the incidence of serious cardiovascular disease.
When the researchers focused on heart attacks, they found a statistically significant 28% reduction in heart attack risk in adults taking omega-3s compared to placebo in the overall study population. Among those who initially ate small fish, the risk was reduced by 40%. The biggest benefits of taking omega-3 supplements in reducing the likelihood of a heart attack were seen in those who ate little fish, African Americans (77% reduction), and those with two or more risk factors for heart disease (44% reduction). .
But the problem is that there is still a lot we don’t know about the health benefits of omega-3, or fish oil. For example, it is not known which prescription forms of omega-3 or fish oil supplements actually combat heart disease and other cardiovascular diseases, which fatty acids in fish oil are responsible for its purported heart-healthy effects, and what mechanisms are at play.
Additionally, some research suggests that fish oil supplements have potential risks. This is pollution with heavy metals (mercury); Oxidation of the oil found in fish oil capsules can increase the likelihood of arteries becoming clogged. High doses of prescription omega-3 and fish oil supplements may increase the risk of atrial fibrillation, which causes the heart to beat faster and increases the risk of bleeding.
News materials cannot be equated with a doctor’s prescription. Consult an expert before making a decision.
Source: Ferra
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