#538: Can Fish Oil Supplementation Increase Risk of Irregular Heart Rhythms?

Omega-3 fatty acids are often viewed as beneficial or, at worst, neutral supplements when it comes to supporting cardiovascular health, lowering triglycerides, and offering anti-inflammatory effects. Much of the focus in recent years has centered on understanding how significant these benefits are, particularly for heart health, with many studies highlighting the potential for omega-3s to play a positive role in reducing cardiovascular risk. However, an emerging concern has complicated the conversation around omega-3 supplementation.

Several large trials, including the REDUCE-IT and STRENGTH trials, have suggested that omega-3 supplementation might be linked to an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF), a common cardiac arrhythmia characterized by an irregular and often rapid heart rate. These findings have sparked debate over whether omega-3s could contribute to this potentially serious heart condition, leaving clinicians and health-conscious individuals uncertain about the safety of these supplements.

However, not all the research supports this elevated risk. This discrepancy raises important questions about how we interpret the data from various studies, the design of those trials, and whether other factors might be influencing these results.

Understanding this issue in depth is crucial for making informed decisions about omega-3 supplementation and its potential risks and benefits. In this episode we walk through the studies and the key points to consider.

Timestamps:

• 00:30 Updates on Alan’s upcoming study
• 05:06 Atrial Fibrillation and Omega-3
• 14:52 RCTs and AFib: Key Studies
• 29:14 Meta-Analyses and Dose-Response
• 46:46 Practical Implications and Recommendations
• 53:53 Key Ideas Segment (Premium-only)

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