Recent studies have raised concerns about potential side effects of Omega-3 supplements on individuals without existing health issues.
From iron to Vitamin D, the supplements industry has seen remarkable growth, with the Smithfield Agency projecting an annual increase of 6.53 percent from 2024 to 2029.
In 2024, the revenue generated from the influx of supplement customers, including myself, is expected to reach $0.78 billion (£585 million).
But how effective are these small capsules?
Concerns have also been voiced regarding Vitamin D, a supplement recommended by the NHS for daily intake, with advisories to cease consumption if certain symptoms arise emerge.
Moreover, a 2024 study has illuminated troubling side effects potentially linked to Omega-3 supplements.
Supplements such as fish or flaxseed oil provide the body with Omega-3, a fatty acid found in certain fish (Getty Stock Images)
What is Omega-3?
Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in creating brain cells, promoting heart health, and reducing inflammation.
As the body cannot produce these acids on its own, they can be obtained from fish like salmon and mackerel, or from plant sources such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
The NHS recommends consuming two portions of fish weekly.
Omega-3 supplements, including Cod Liver Oil and Flaxseed Oil, are also popular for enhancing Omega levels.
What are the concerning side effects of Omega-3?
Given the essential nature of healthy fats in our diet, one might assume that Omega-3 supplements are a safe choice.
However, recent research indicates that there may be alarming side effects associated with these supplements.
A study conducted at Sun Yat-Sen University in China and published in the BMJ discovered correlations between Omega-3 intake and an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), heart attack, stroke, and heart failure among healthy adults.
The study, which analyzed data from 400,000 participants in the UK Biobank over 12 years, revealed that healthy individuals without known heart conditions experienced a 13 percent higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation and a five percent increase in stroke risk after regular fish oil use.
One study suggested a link between Omega-3 supplements and an increased risk in heart issues in otherwise healthy people (Getty Stock Images)
Interestingly, the findings were different for adults with existing heart conditions; these individuals showed a 15 percent reduction in the risk of a heart attack after having atrial fibrillation, and a nine percent lower likelihood of dying from heart failure compared to those who did not consume Omega-3 supplements.
Should we be concerned about Omega-3 supplements?
In response to this research, the British Heart Foundation issued a statement.
The foundation acknowledged that while the study indicates a link between fish oil consumption and heightened heart condition risks in healthy individuals, it does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
Moreover, details regarding the specific types of fish oil supplements and the frequency of consumption among participants were not documented.
