London, UK – A recent study published in BMJ Medicine suggests that while fish oil supplements may increase the risk of developing a heart condition or stroke for some individuals, they could reduce the likelihood of a heart attack for those already diagnosed with cardiovascular disease.
Fish oil, known for being a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, has long been recommended by healthcare professionals to help prevent cardiovascular disease. However, the study conducted by researchers from China, the US, the UK, and Denmark, found varying effects of fish oil supplementation on different groups of participants.
The research, which tracked over 400,000 participants in the UK Biobank for an average of 12 years, examined the associations between fish oil supplements and conditions such as atrial fibrillation, heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and death in individuals with and without known cardiovascular disease.
Results from the study indicated that regular use of fish oil supplements was linked to a 13% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation and a 5% higher risk of stroke among individuals without prior cardiovascular disease. However, for those with existing heart conditions, the supplements showed potential benefits, including a 15% lower risk of progressing from atrial fibrillation to a heart attack, and a 9% lower risk of moving from heart failure to death.
Despite these findings, researchers noted that the effects of omega-3 supplementation were not consistent across all demographics. Women and non-smokers, for example, showed increased risks of developing heart-related conditions when taking fish oil supplements. On the other hand, older individuals and men with pre-existing heart conditions demonstrated a more positive response to supplementation.
The authors of the study emphasized that the research was observational, and no definitive conclusions could be drawn about the cause-and-effect relationship between fish oil supplements and heart conditions. Additionally, the study highlighted the lack of information about the specific dosage and formulation of the supplements used by participants, suggesting that individual responses to fish oil supplementation may vary.
Tracy Parker, a senior dietitian at the British Heart Foundation, emphasized the importance of a well-rounded diet over relying solely on supplements like fish oil. Parker highlighted the benefits of a traditional Mediterranean diet, which has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke through its emphasis on fish and plant-based foods while limiting red meat consumption.
In conclusion, while fish oil supplements may offer benefits for individuals with cardiovascular disease, the study underscores the importance of a holistic approach to heart health that includes a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Further research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between fish oil supplementation and heart conditions.