Fish oil supplements, widely recognized for their heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, have become a popular choice to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. About 20% of adults over age 60 take the supplements regularly.
But a new study has raised concerns about the safety of the supplements for individuals with no preexisting heart conditions. The research suggests that regular use of fish oil supplements may increase the risk of first-time stroke and atrial fibrillation among those in good cardiovascular health.
Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, often described as a fluttering or pounding sensation in the chest. Dr. Andrew Freeman, director of cardiovascular prevention and wellness at National Jewish Health in Denver, commented on the study’s findings.
“Studies over the last 10 years have not been very positive for over-the-counter fish oil,” he told CNN. “Fish oil was either having no benefit or in some cases it may harm, such as with stroke and AFib. So that’s not new.”
The study, published in the journal BMJ Medicine, analyzed data from over 415,000 people ages 40 to 69 who participated in the U.K. Biobank, a long-term health study. Nearly one-third of the participants, who were followed for an average of 12 years, reported regular use of fish oil supplements.
The findings revealed that for people without heart issues, regular use of fish oil supplements was linked to a 13% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation and a 5% increased risk of having a stroke.
Dr. Freeman pointed out that over-the-counter fish oil products often suffer from issues related to purity and consistency, and may contain contaminants like heavy metals, such as mercury.
The study also found some potential benefits for those with existing heart conditions. Regular use of fish oil supplements was associated with a 15% lower risk of progressing from atrial fibrillation to a heart attack and a 9% lower risk of progressing from heart failure to death.
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