For many people, fish oil supplements are part of their health routine. I know that I have a bottle sitting in my vitamin cabinet. These supplements offer omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA which can lower blood pressure and triglycerides. But according to Medical XPress, fish oil supplements could be detrimental for patients with high blood lipids. A new study, published in the European Heart Journal – Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy, shares that these supplements could actually increase the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) within this group.
Omega-3 Fish Oil Research
In the past, researchers have questioned whether omega-3 fatty acids could increase the risk of AF. Since those with AF are 5x more likely than other groups to have a stroke, this knowledge is crucial to improve patient outcomes. So, for this study, researchers utilized a meta-analysis of prior trials to determine whether or not this assertion is true.
Altogether, researchers evaluated data from five clinical trials. All of the trials explored the intersection between omega-3 fish oil supplements and heart health. Overall, data was sourced from 50,277 patients. During these trials, patients received either fish oil supplements (0.84-4g) or a placebo. Follow-up data spanned from 2 to 7.4 years.
Ultimately, this meta-analysis showed that fish oil supplements significantly raised the risk of developing AF. Thus, those who have cardiovascular disease, or who are at risk of developing cardiovascular issues, should most likely steer clear of fish oil supplements.
Atrial Fibrillation (AF)
When the two upper heart chambers begin experiencing chaotic electrical signals, atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs. This irregular and rapid heartbeat can have extremely detrimental health effects. For example, patients with AF have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular complications, heart failure, or stroke. Heart damage or defects, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, stimulant exposure, viral infections, stress, and sleep apnea can cause AF.
Altogether, there are four forms of AF. First, occasional or paroxysmal AF occurs when symptoms come and go. Symptoms may last for a few minutes or hours, but then the symptoms stop. Next, persistent AF happens when the heart rhythm does not return to normal without external treatment. Then there is long-standing persistent AF, which causes continuous symptoms. Those with this form may experience symptoms for over a year. Finally, permanent AF occurs when the heart rhythm cannot be reverted back to normal. This form requires medication to mitigate symptoms and improve patient outcomes. Symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness and/or dizziness
- General fatigue
- Heart palpitations
- Confusion
- Shortness of breath and/or difficulty breathing
- Exercise intolerance
- Chest pain
- Anxiety
- General weakness
- “Fluttering” in the chest
