Should You Consider an Omega-3 Supplement?

Omega-3 supplements are among the most popular supplements taken regularly by Americans, with an estimated 10% of the population taking the vitamin regularly. Yet, research suggests that not everyone will benefit from them. Here’s a closer look at who may benefit from an omega-3 regimen.

In November 2018, researchers presented their findings from the VITAL study at the American Heart Association’s annual meeting. In the trial, more than 25,800 healthy adults were put on a daily Vitamin D and Omega-3 regimen, with a goal of determining whether omega-3 would help to prevent cardiovascular events. Their findings didn’t present one answer across the board, however.

According to the study’s lead author, some groups did benefit from the vitamin, while others didn’t. The supplement didn’t reduce the risk of cardiovascular events overall, but there was a 28% reduction in heart attacks. It didn’t appear to prevent heart issues in healthy people overall, but participants who had less than 1.5 servings of fish per week did experience benefits, including a 40% reduction in heart attacks. African American participants saw the largest benefit, with a 77% reduction in heart attacks, which the study’s lead author says must be investigated further.

A subsequent study, REDUCE-IT, looked at adults who were middle-aged or older and had significant risk factors for cardiovascular events, including elevated triglyceride levels. Participants were given either a high-dose, prescription omega-3 medication, or a placebo. In participants who took the medication versus the placebo, there was a 25% reduction in the risk of dying from heart disease or experiencing a cardiovascular event.

High-dose omega-3 supplements aren’t always recommended, as they do present certain medical risks. Nonetheless, the study author says that for people who are at risk of cardiac events, the benefits of the supplement appear to outweigh its risks.

In general, omega-3 supplements should be reviewed by a medical provider to determine if a patient would benefit and at what dose. Practioner-grade supplements are recommended and if you are interested in learning more, please visit https://stemedix.com/vitamins/ or contact us today.