Fish oil is often used as a supplement to reduce cardiovascular risk, but recent research has found that it may actually increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in individuals with good cardiovascular health. A study conducted in China revealed that individuals without known cardiovascular disease who regularly took fish oil supplements had a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation and stroke compared to those who did not take fish oil. However, the study also showed benefits of fish oil supplements for individuals with preexisting cardiovascular conditions.
Dr. Adedapo Adeyinka Iluyomade, a preventative cardiologist, emphasized the importance of tailoring recommendations for fish oil supplements to individual patient profiles. He suggested that fish oil may be more beneficial for patients with preexisting cardiovascular conditions rather than for primary prevention in the general population. The study, which was published in BMJ Medicine, analyzed data from 415,737 individuals in the UK Biobank, of which about a third took fish oil supplements.
The study revealed that individuals with cardiovascular disease who took fish oil supplements had a lower risk of progressing from atrial fibrillation to a heart attack and from heart failure to death. However, the risk of transitioning from good health to heart attack, stroke, or heart failure was higher among women and non-smokers who took fish oil supplements. The protective effect of fish oil was found to be greater in men and older participants. Dr. Rohit Vuppuluri, a cardiologist, recommended using prescription-grade fish oil for medical treatment to ensure quality and efficacy.
Despite the mixed findings on the benefits of fish oil, experts agree that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil have anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve lipid profiles. Dr. Iluyomade recommended a daily intake of at least 500mg of omega-3s from sources like fatty fish, omega-3 supplements, or a combination of both. Elana Natker, a registered dietitian, stressed the need for further human clinical studies to establish a causal relationship between omega-3s and cardiovascular events. She highlighted the importance of consuming fish oil in appropriate doses to minimize potential risks.