Do Omega 3 Supplements Really Work?

Results from hundreds of clinical trials indicate that omega-3 supplementation is effective at treating or aiding in the treatment of many cardiovascular diseases. The scientific evidence is so solid that in his article, "Practical Applications of Fish Oil in Primary Care," Dr. Robert Oh advises physicians to not only use the supplements to treat disease, but to recommend them to prevent the onset of cardiovascular problems.

Cardiovascular Health

The benefits of omega-3 supplementation are touted by experts in the field of cardiology. For example, Oh says that a 1 g daily of omega-3 can reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death. According the Mayo Clinic, several trials on humans demonstrate that omega-3 supplements are effective at reducing blood pressure and improving heart health. Dr. Carl Lavine, a former chairman of the College of Cardiology, is enthusiastic about the effectiveness of omega-3 in improving cardiovascular health. In "Future Cardiology," Lavine touts the benefits of omega-3 and asserts that it continues to gain credibility and will one day hold a central role in cardiology.

Anti-inflammatory Effect

The primary effect of omega-3 supplements is their anti-inflammatory influence on the body. According to Dr. Maggie Covington of The University of Maryland School of Medicine, omega-3 supplements reduce enzymes in the body that create inflammation. Essentially, when inflammation is reduced, bodily systems function more effectively. The anti-inflammatory effect of omega-3 is the reason it is sometimes recommended to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

Dosing Difficulty

As extensive as the research is, a serious problem remains. Optimal dosage levels remain unclear. Recommended dosage levels, and adjusting for individual patient differences, have not been extensively studied. Too much supplementation can lead to new problems or complicate existing problems and low dosage may have little, if any, effect. Effective yet safe dosage levels remain a trial-and-error process. Lavine remains hopeful, however, saying that continued research using small studies that vary the dosage will eventually establish recommend dosing. The real barrier, according to Lavine, is funding. "Typically, there are not a lot of people who will be able to give out $100 million to carry out a trial unless they really think they will gain something from it."

Cautions

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration considers it safe to take up to 3 g of fish oil daily. Nonetheless, caution is advised for those with diabetes. The Mayo Clinic reports adverse effects are unlikely, but fish oil supplements can increase blood sugar levels. The clinic also advises those with hemophilia to consult a physician before using omega-3 supplements, as the supplements "may increase the risk of bleeding.". Other common problems are stomach upset and burping . Always consult a health-care provider before attempting to treat any condition with nutritional supplements.