Omega 3 supplements do not reduce risk of heart disease, stroke, or death, finds review

A systematic review of evidence on omega 3 supplements has challenged the belief that they reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, or death.

The new Cochrane review1 combined the results of 79 randomised trials involving 112 059 people and assessed the effects of consuming additional omega 3 fat, compared with usual or lower omega 3, on diseases of the heart and circulation. Some of the participants were healthy while others had existing conditions.

Twenty five studies were assessed as highly trustworthy because they were well designed and conducted. These covered the three main types of omega 3 fatty acids: alphalinolenic acid (ALA), which is normally found in fats from plant foods, such as nuts and seeds; …