The Good & Bad Of Omega 3 Fish Oils

More than four decades ago, Danish scientists speculated that the extraordinarily low rate of heart disease among Greenland's Inuits was related to their high consumption of fish. Since then more than 7,000 clinical trials from around the world have discovered that fish oil is effective at treating cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis and psychiatric disorders such as bipolar, ADHD and depression. Like most advances in medicine, omega-3 is not without potential problems and reasons for concern.

Cardiovascular Disease

According to "The Journal of the American Board of Family Practice", the strongest evidence is the benefits of fish oil in treating cardiovascular disease. Fish oil enriched diets lead to reduced risk of heart attack and coronary artery disease. Although the evidence is compelling a serious weakness remains. As Dr. Robert Oh says in his article "Practical Applications of Fish Oil in Primary Care," a serious gap in the research is the lack of clarity in the optimal intake levels for effective treatment. Additionally, since one of the possible effects is to thin the blood, fish oil is not always a recommend treatment for some cardiovascular diseases.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

"The Journal of the American Board of Family Practice" also reports that fish oil is effective at treating Rheumatoid Arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory effect on joints. These results are consistent in clinical trials with the best results coming at twelve months from consuming 2.8 g of fish oil daily. At the 2.8 daily dosages, fish oil is also effective at reducing tender joints and the duration of morning stiffness. Possible side effects at this dosage level, however, include reduced clotting action of the blood and increased blood sugar levels in diabetics.

Psychiatric Disorders

In the "Alternative Medical Review" Dr. Parris Kidd says fish oil is beneficial in treating several psychiatric disorders including depression, attention-deficit disorder, and bipolar disorder. The biochemical mechanism underlying these results, however, is still poorly understood. Additionally, clinical results are not consistent, and effective dosage levels also remain unclear.

Contamination Concerns

Although a lack of clarity in dosage and possible side-effects distract from all the good news about fish oil, a concern often expressed is of contamination. Jointly the "Food and Drug Administration" and the "Environmental Protection Agency" released a statement advising consumers to be aware of possible toxins in fish and fish-products. However, the statement urges people to continue to consume safe fish for the proven health benefits. Concerns about contamination have been addressed by many companies selling fish oil supplements. Most now use a purifying process to eliminate any possible toxins.