Popular fish oil supplements face scrutiny over potential health risks

Fish oil supplements are touted to have many benefits, like better heart, brain, eye, joint and skin health.

Despite these potential benefits, there have been concerns about the safety and efficacy of these supplements, especially in high doses.

The supplements are under scrutiny as researchers uncovered potential risks associated with their usage.

“For individuals that are already meeting the recommended daily allowance, there’s no evidence that more is better, even for bone health or fracture reduction, in that, we shouldn’t be pushing individuals to be taking more beyond the recommended daily allowance,” said Dr. Erin Michos, a preventative cardiologist.

A 2021 study linked high doses of fish oil to an increased risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke, particularly in individuals taking statins.

Concerns have also been raised about its potential impact on heart attacks and death.

“Forty-six percent of Americans are taking supplements, and the data for, both calcium supplements and many other types of supplements and multivitamins, you know, it’s not clear, at all, for any kind of cancer benefit or cardiovascular benefit,” said Dr. Michos. “So many individuals are taking these, when many well-done clinical trials have shown that these supplements are no better than placebo. Patients should really discuss with their doctors, you know, do they need them, review their dietary intake and try to make a concerted effort to, you know, meet that recommended daily allowance.”

Doctor’s said it is crucial for consumers to understand that while Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for overall health, they can be obtained through a balanced diet.

Contributors to this news report include: Adahlia Thomas, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.