Fish Oil - September 2009

Did you know…

Many studies support the power of fish oil?

A new review of research shows that omega-3 fatty acids derived from fish oils are beneficial for everyone.  Omega-3 fatty acids not only prevent heart disease but may also help treat it.

The studies include four trials with almost 40,000 participants that show benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in prevention of heart disease, in treatment after heart attack and also in heart failure patients.

In 2002, the American Heart Association issued a scientific statement endorsing omega-3 fatty acid intake, from fish or supplements. Dr. Carl Lavie, author of this review article states that 500 milligrams of fish oil a day or two servings of fish per week is adequate for most people.  For those with heart disease, the recommended amount is 800-1000 milligrams of fish oil supplements per day (or four to five servings of fish per week). For patients with high triglyceride levels, the recommended dose is 2,000- 4,000 milligrams per day.

Dr. Lavie recommends that clinicians consider prescribing omega-3 fatty acids (or fish oil supplements) to their patients.  He believes the research shows that it prevents death or hospitalization following heart failure and also improves health in those who have experienced a heart attack.  The FDA has approved omega-3’s for treatment of high triglyceride levels, and omega-3’s may reverse atherosclerosis and prevent heart rhythm disturbances.

What does CPC recommend?

Omega-3 fatty acids are needed for our bodies to work normally. Because essential fatty acids are not made in the body we need to get them from food or supplements.  There are several types of omega-3 fatty acids. The two most important ones -- EPA and DHA -- are primarily found in certain fish.ALA, another type of omega-3 fatty acid found in flaxseed and nuts, is also beneficial because it is partially converted into DHA and EPA in the body.  Experts say that DHA and especially EPA -- from fish and fish oil -- have better established heart health benefits than ALA. DHA and EPA are found only in fatty fish and algae; while flaxseed and plant sources of omega-3s provide ALA.

Fish high in DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids include anchovies, bluefish, herring, mackerel, salmon (wild has more omega-3s than farmed), sardines, sturgeon, lake trout, and tuna.  Good sources of ALA include walnuts, flax and flaxseed oil, canola oil, olive oil, and soybean oil.   While foods containing omega-3 fatty acids have health benefits, some -- like oils and nuts -- can be high in calories. So eat them in moderation.

Potentially harmful mercury is found in some species of fish. Mercury accumulates in fish meat more than in fish oil, and fish oil supplements appear to contain almost no mercury. Mercury is most harmful in young children and pregnant/nursing women. For these individuals, eating fish with higher mercury levels (eg, shark, swordfish, golden bass, and king mackerel) should be avoided; albacore tuna should be limited to 6 oz per week.

To ensure a heart healthy future, consider increasing your intake of these powerful omega-3 fatty acids, either through supplements or diet.  Be sure to talk with your doctor before starting any supplement.

This research was published in:  Aug. 11, 2009 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology