Fish Oil CAUSES A-Fib? (Don’t Take the Bait!)
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted June 15, 2024
You’ve undoubtedly seen the recent “shocking” fish-oil news by now.
The disturbing headlines claiming fish oil supplements cause atrial fibrillation (A-fib) or heart disease have been plastered practically everywhere you look.
I’ve written about the heart BENEFITS of these supplements many times before, and now, some study has come along and concluded, “Oh, by the way, they might be giving you an irregular heartbeat.”
Talk about confusing.
But before you chuck your fish oil bottle in the trash, let’s take a closer look at this study and what it REALLY means.
First, it’s an observational study, meaning the researchers just asked a bunch of people what they eat and what supplements they take and then sat back and watched for a decade.
Imagine all the issues that can crop up with that approach.
To start, people’s memories are unreliable and habits change. There’s no way to know whether those taking a supplement were consistent the entire time or the quality or dosage of those supplements. We don’t even know for sure if some folks who weren’t taking them started.
And since no actual blood levels were measured, we have no solid data.
Now, to be clear, some studies already suggest that going overboard on fish oil can lead to some funky heart rhythms. Which makes sense, of course.
But here’s the thing… the A-fib risk isn’t earth-shattering. We’re not talking about everyone who takes fish oil suddenly having their hearts go haywire. It’s a relatively small risk.
Here’s the real kicker: even if someone in the study did end up with an irregular heartbeat, their overall risk of dying is still DECREASED.
Let that sink in for a moment.
They might have had a little extra flutter in their chest, but they were still less likely to die than those who weren’t taking fish oil.
So, while it’s not a situation you want to be in, it’s a heck of a lot different than the picture those sensationalized headlines painted.
So, should you toss your fish oil supplements in the garbage and never look back? Absolutely not!
The benefits of fish oil supplements still far outweigh any potential risks. This was one observational study. The overwhelming majority of clinical evidence finds fish oil beneficial.
The key here is moderation. Don’t go popping fish oil supplements like they’re candy.
Buy a high-quality brand you can trust, keep them in a cool, dark place (consider refrigerating them unless their label instructions say different), stick to the recommended dosage, and, of course, check with your doctor to be sure they’re right for you.
Don’t let misleading headlines reel you in and scare you away from something that could be doing your heart and brain a world of good!
P.S. “SKIP” atrial fibrillation with these three heart hacks.
Source:
Chen G, Qian Z, Zhang J, et al., Regular use of fish oil supplements and course of cardiovascular diseases: prospective cohort study, BMJ Medicine 2024;3:e000451.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
The $1000 Weight-Loss Secret Your Body Makes for FREE
Weight-loss drugs Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have become household names. These injectable GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs have captured widespread attention, with celebrity endorsements and social media success stories highlighting their dramatic results. But here’s what those glossy headlines aren’t telling you… GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone released by your gut. It acts as...
Brain Fog? Your Thermostat Could Be the SURPRISING Culprit
Cranking up the heat in winter or blasting the AC in summer can send your utility bills soaring. So, it’s no surprise that many of us choose to grit our teeth and endure it. But that could be a huge mistake. New research reveals that extreme indoor temperatures don’t just make you uncomfortable—they could be...
Nature's Powerful COVID-19 Defense REVEALED
While Big Pharma scrambles to cash in on new COVID-19 treatments, Mother Nature already has powerful allies waiting in the wings. A groundbreaking review in the journal Nutrients revealed a secret that Big Pharma won’t advertise—common herbs and supplements could ease mild COVID-19 symptoms. And the best part? You won’t need a prescription or to...
Women, Don’t Ignore These 5 Signs!
I’ve spent decades in medicine, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that women are tough as nails. They’re pros at pushing through discomfort and brushing off warning signs. But that strength can also be their biggest health risk. Feeling tired? Well, of course—after all, you’re juggling a million things! Short of breath? It...
5 Warning Signs Men Should NEVER Ignore!
Men—listen up. I know you pride yourself on being tough. You insist on pushing through and refuse to make a fuss about “every little ache and pain.” But here’s the cold, hard truth… That tough guy act? It could KILL you. As a doctor I get an unwanted first-row seat to some hard-learned lessons. Hardly...
Mailbag: Is Your Gut Secretly Attacking Your Joints?
“Can a leaky gut cause sudden onset arthritis? My wife has developed arthritis over a 2-month period that is almost debilitating at this point, and she has constant diarrhea. Are these symptoms connected in some way?” -Leaky and Lost Hi Lost, When my patients ask me about leaky gut, my answer is always the same: “It’s...
“Brain Brew” SLASHES Dementia Risk
If you’re a regular Living Well Daily reader, you know I’m a coffee fan. There are plenty of good reasons to stay that way. In fact, I shared a reason just last week. But I’ve also made room in my life for another hot beverage—and that’s green tea. Now, new research suggests it was a...
Nature's New Mood Booster? (It's Already in Your Kitchen!)
Scientists uncovered something surprising hiding in plain sight in our kitchens. And it might turn out to be nature’s answer to fighting depression. The best part? You’re probably already eating it… Let’s find out. An exciting new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders reveals that naturally occurring spermidine could help keep the blues...
Coffee Mug Hack Could Head Off Cancer
If you’re a coffee lover, it doesn’t get much better than that first cup of morning coffee. But before you reach for your favorite mug, I have some news that might make that java taste EVEN better. A new study finds your coffee habit could protect you from one of the world’s most common cancers…...
WALK Away from Cancer? Study Says “Yes!”
When you’re battling cancer, the LAST thing you need is more questionable advice. Yet a parade of well-meaning folks will insist you must do everything from running marathons to moving to a Greek island in order to outsmart the disease. But what if something as simple as a daily walk could give you the extra...