Despite the billion-dollar industry and the supposed benefits, experts are cautioning Americans about fish oil supplements, stating that they may not be as great as they seem. According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UTSMC), around 80 percent of nearly 3,000 fish oil supplements analyzed made health claims that were not backed up by scientific evidence. These claims, such as supporting heart health, were found to be misleading to customers. Furthermore, the study suggested that consuming excessive amounts of fish oil, in an industry worth $2.3 billion globally, could potentially increase the risk of heart issues like atrial fibrillation. This irregular heartbeat condition could lead to stroke and heart failure.
Experts have emphasized that not all fish oil supplements are equal, and the lack of scientific foundation to the claims made by these supplements creates confusion for consumers. Around 80 percent of the supplements that made a health claim used structure/function claims, which describe a health effect like boosting heart health, but cannot be proven by studies or regulated by authorities like the FDA. Dr. Ann Marie Navr, a cardiologist at UTSMC and lead study author, stated that extensive research has shown that, for most people, over-the-counter fish oil supplements do not provide cardiovascular benefits, and high doses could even increase the risk of atrial fibrillation.
The study analyzed 2,819 fish oil supplement labels obtained from the National Institutes of Health Dietary Supplement Database. Out of these, 2,082 made at least one health claim. The study also compared the amounts of two key omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, in 255 of the supplements. These fatty acids have been shown to lower triglyceride levels and support immune function and fetal development. However, only one in ten supplements met the recommended daily amount of EPA and DHA to lower blood pressure.
In conclusion, experts warn that fish oil supplements may not live up to the health claims made by manufacturers. The lack of scientific evidence for these claims and the varying amounts of EPA and DHA in supplements make it confusing for consumers. It is advised to talk to a doctor about the supplements being taken and to be aware that the health benefits may not be as promising as they seem.
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