For years, fish oil supplements have been touted as a panacea for everything from heart and brain health to joint relief and immune system boosts.
Their allure rests primarily on the omega-3 fatty acids they contain—EPA and DHA.
However, a new study from UT Southwestern Medical School questions the claims made on the labels of these supplements and whether they deliver what they promise.
The Research: Labeling Discrepancies
The study, led by Joanna Assadourian, a fourth-year medical student, closely scrutinized fish oil supplement labels.
The researchers found that nearly 74% of the 2,819 supplements analyzed made at least one health claim, but only 19% had FDA-approved qualified health claims.
The most common assertions were those related to promoting cardiovascular health.
Dosage Uncertainties
The study also revealed variations in the daily doses of EPA and DHA across supplements, creating confusion for consumers.
The lack of established dietary recommendations for these fatty acids further complicates matters.
The Truth About Cardiovascular Health
Recent large-scale, randomized trials, including VITAL and the U.K.’s ASCEND, have shown that fish oil supplements do not significantly prevent heart disease in the general population.
“If they are taking fish oil to try to avoid heart disease, then they can stop taking it because it’s not helping them,” says Dr. Ann Marie Navar, co-author of the study.
Consult Healthcare Professionals, Not Labels
According to the study authors, supplement labels can be misleading, even for savvy consumers. As Assadourian suggests, the best course of action is to consult with healthcare providers for personalized advice.
Alternative Health Investments
Navar and Assadourian recommend focusing on proven methods for improving health, such as consuming fresh vegetables, exercising, or medication for blood pressure or cholesterol.
The Whole Food Advantage
Connie Diekman, a food and nutrition consultant, notes that while seafood consumption has health benefits, it’s not necessarily due to the oil alone.
The overall nutrients found in fish, and how they interact, might be what’s offering the health advantages.
Fish as a Dietary Option
For those not fond of fish, Diekman suggests starting with a less-fatty option to ease into the flavor. She also recommends cooking techniques and pairing with other foods to make the taste more palatable.
Final Thoughts
The American Heart Association advises consuming fish twice a week, especially fatty fish. However, if you’re among those who opt for fish oil supplements instead, it might be time to reassess.
With ongoing debates and inconclusive evidence, consumer education and regulatory changes seem increasingly vital.
The new research calls for stricter labeling regulations to prevent misinformation, urging consumers to be more vigilant and consult healthcare professionals for health-related advice.
If you care about nutrition, please read studies about how Mediterranean diet could protect your brain health, and the best time to take vitamins to prevent heart disease.
For more information about nutrition, please see recent studies that olive oil may help you live longer, and vitamin D could help lower the risk of autoimmune diseases.
The research findings can be found in JAMA Cardiology.
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