Fish oil supplements may raise risk of stroke, heart issues, study suggests
Fish oil supplements have been a topic of recent studies regarding their impact on heart health. Research suggests that while fish oil supplements may increase the risk of developing heart conditions or strokes for individuals without prior cardiovascular disease, they could offer protective benefits for those already diagnosed with heart disease.
The study analyzed data from over 400,000 participants and found that regular fish oil supplement use was associated with a 13% increased risk of atrial fibrillation and a 5% heightened risk of stroke for individuals without known cardiovascular disease.
However, for patients with heart disease, fish oil supplements were linked to a 15% reduced risk of progressing from atrial fibrillation to a heart attack and a 9% lower risk of progressing from heart failure to death.
It’s important to note that the study was observational, and the authors caution against definitive causal conclusions. Additionally, experts recommend focusing on a balanced diet rich in omega-3 sources like fish and plant-based alternatives for heart health rather than relying solely on supplements.