Fish oil benefits the heart and cardiovascular system in many ways. According to MedlinePlus, the supplement decreases triglyceride levels, a substance in the blood closely related to cholesterol. Fish oil also reduces your risk of atherosclerosis and blood clots leading to heart attacks or strokes. According to some clinical trials, the supplement may increase heart arrhythmia. Before taking fish oil, discuss with your medical doctor to see if fish oil is the correct medication for your cardiovascular symptoms, such as heart irregularities.
Definition
A heart arrhythmia occurs when the heart does not beat in correct rhythm and becomes irregular. Your heart may beat too fast, too slow or off-beat, states MayoClinic.com. Because fish oil supplements are closely related to the same conditions a heart arrhythmia may cause, some people may believe taking fish oil will benefit the condition.
Heart Patients
Fish oil is a natural blood thinner, and may stop a blood clot from building that leads to a stroke or heart attack. The American Heart Association recommends people with high triglycerides or heart disease to take the supplement. Still, caution is advised if you suffer from heart palpitation or rhythm problems.
Defibrillator Precautions
Heart patients with extremely irregular heart beats are at risk of suffering from a stroke or heart attack. A small electrical device called a defibrillator is installed in the heart to keep the heart's electrical pulses coordinated and on track. This procedure only occurs in patients with extreme irregularities. According to MayoClinic.com, heart irregularities are not always dangerous or need to be treated. However, patients with defibrillators are advised against taking fish oil supplements, reports ScienceDaily.com. Patients with implanted defibrillator devices actually had an increase in heart rhythm abnormalities, states the website.
Additional Heart Arrhythmia Safety
If you suffer from heart irregularities, it is important to to understand what other herbs and supplements to avoid besides fish oil. NYU Langone Medical Center states coffee may actually increase heart stimulation and palpitations. Avoid drinking large amounts of coffee, tea and other beverages with caffeine. Herbs also containing caffeine include guarana and cola nut, states the website. The supplement creatine may occasional increase heart palpitations.
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