PTINR.com
A fish story
Tuesday, August 1, 2006
PTINR.com Staff
Preliminary study showed a slight increase in atrial fibrillation for those consuming Omega-3 fish oil, other studies did not.
Omega 3 fatty acids, like those found in certain cold water fish have shown benefits to the heart as illustrated by the American Heart Association:
The ways that omega-3 fatty acids reduce CVD risk are still being studied. However, research has shown that they
- decrease risk of arrhythmias, which can lead to sudden cardiac death
- decrease triglyceride levels
- decrease growth rate of atherosclerotic plaque
- lower blood pressure (slightly) American Heart Association
Little in the way of side effects has been shown when recommended in-take of omega 3 fish oil or the fish equivalent is consumed. A study of 17,000 men taking the equivalent of five or more servings per week did show an increase of the common arrhythmia atrial fibrillation. The study authors cautioned against these findings and called the results “preliminary”.
Electrophysiologist investigators from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Medicine stated the benefit outweigh the risk and cautioned people not to stop eating fish. A Danish study of more than 48,000 patients was associated with in increase in new onset atrial fibrillation while a Cardiovascular Healthy Study of 4,815 patients over 65-years old showed a decrease in atrial fibrillation. A 7.1% incidence of new onset atrial fibrillation was found in only one study.
Atrial fibrillation places patients at increased risk of stroke. Experts support the continued use of omega 3 fatty acids through dietary in-take or in supplement form under the guidance of a qualified dietitian of through physician’s guidance.