A new study conducted in Columbus, Ohio suggests that taking fish oil supplements may have varying effects on heart health. The study found that regular use of fish oil supplements could potentially increase the risk of heart attack and stroke among healthy individuals. However, for those with existing heart disease, fish oil consumption was shown to slow down the progression of cardiovascular disease and reduce the risk of mortality.
The research analyzed data from over 415,000 participants aged 40 to 69 from the UK Biobank study. The study, published in The BMJ (British Medical Journal), highlighted the complexities of the relationship between fish oil supplements and heart health. According to Dr. Jim Liu, a cardiologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, there is still a lot of uncertainty surrounding the benefits of fish oil in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Tanya Freirich, a registered dietitian nutritionist, also noted that the study revealed slightly different associations between fish oil consumption and the risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke in healthy individuals versus those with cardiovascular disease. She recommended getting omega 3s from food sources like fatty fish, flaxseed, and nuts, rather than relying solely on supplements.
Michelle Routhenstein, a preventive cardiology dietitian based in New York, emphasized that more is not always better when it comes to fish oil supplements. She suggested consulting with a registered dietitian specializing in heart disease to determine the right dosage and sources of omega 3 fatty acids for individual health needs.
Overall, the study underscores the importance of personalized nutrition recommendations and highlights the need for further research to better understand the impact of fish oil supplements on heart health. It is essential to consult healthcare providers before making significant changes to dietary supplements to ensure optimal health outcomes.