| | | I don’t recall if Davis warned about high daily doses of fish oil (more than 4 grams) increasing the risk for atrial fibrillation significantly.
Per Google AI search:
Fish oil supplements, particularly at high doses (over 1 gram per day), have been linked to an
increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AFib) in healthy individuals.
However, for people who already have existing cardiovascular disease or AFib, fish oil supplements may offer some benefits and could reduce the risk of other major cardiovascular events or death.
Key Considerations
- Risk vs. Benefit for Healthy Individuals: For generally healthy people, regular fish oil use has been associated with a slightly higher relative risk of developing AFib and stroke, but the absolute risk remains small. Most experts and health organizations, such as the American Heart Association (AHA), recommend obtaining omega-3 fatty acids from dietary sources (eating fish several times a week) rather than relying on supplements for primary prevention of heart disease.
- Risk vs. Benefit for Patients with Heart Disease: In patients with established cardiovascular conditions, the anti-inflammatory and triglyceride-lowering benefits of fish oil may outweigh the increased risk of AFib, potentially slowing disease progression.
- Dose-Dependent Risk: The risk of developing AFib appears to be dose-dependent. Studies have shown that doses of omega-3s greater than 1 gram per day significantly increase the risk compared to lower doses.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Due to the complex and sometimes conflicting study results, it is crucial to consult a cardiologist or primary care provider before starting fish oil supplements. They can help determine the potential benefits and risks based on your specific health profile and existing conditions.
- Dietary Sources are Preferred: Eating fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and herring one to two times a week is consistently linked to better heart health and a lower risk of heart disease and AFib without the associated risks of high-dose supplements.
In summary, while high doses of fish oil pills may pose a risk for developing AFib, especially for healthy individuals, they might offer benefits for those with existing heart conditions. Medical guidance is essential for making an informed decision about supplementation. |
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