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Fish Oil Supplements: Potential Risk of Stroke

Fish oil supplements, once deemed beneficial for overall health due to omega-3s, could carry potential risks of stroke and heart issues, according to a new study.

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by Michael Green

For quite a long time, fish oil supplements are popular among peoples because its rich omega-three fatty acids and considered to be beneficial for heart health, brain function and overall health. However, one paper published recently shows that fish oil supplements may increase the risk of stroke and heart issues. 

 

Overview of the Study

The study guided by the researchers from Harvard University and Brigham and Women's Hospital, analyzed over 25,000 participants who have not gotten angiocardiopathy before the study began. The researchers followed their health conditions almost 12 years and recorded the fish oil supplements data they used. To our surprise, study found compared to the people not eat fish oil supplements, they showed extra 18% risks of getting stroke, and extra 8% risks of heart issues. These results are clear comparison with its benefits we think before. 


 

Why Fish Oil Supplements Cause This Problem

So, why fish oil supplements have this uncontemplated side effects? The researchers proposed several possible explanations.

  1. Uncertain qualities of fish oil supplements: There are a variety of fish oil supplements in the market with different kinds of qualities. Some products of inferior quality may be filled with pollutants, such as heavy metals and polychlorinated biphenyl, which will be harmful to our health.

  2. Dose and type of omega-3 fatty acids: Not all omega-3 fatty acids are the same.Omega-3 fatty acids have two main ingredients, EPA and DHA, they have different effects in health. Besides, extra omega-3 fatty acids may result in hemodilution and increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke.

  3. Individual difference: Everybody shows different reactions to omega-3 fatty acids. Some may be more sensitive to omega-3 fatty acids and more likely to have untoward effects.


Suggestions We Should Know

The study results reminds us that we should be cautious and careful before eating fish oil supplements, here are some suggestions:

  1. Consult a doctor: Before taking any supplements, please consult your doctor, especially when you have some potential health problems.

  2. Choose those with superior qualities: Purchase third party certified fish oil supplements to ensure their quality and purity.

  3. Care for the dose: Strictly follow the dose recommended on the tag, don’t take extra dose, moderation is the key.

  4. Consider other sources: If you worry about the risk of fish oil supplements, you can switch your methods, a lot of food is full of omega-3 fatty acids, such as Fat-rich fish, flaxseed, and chia seeds.



Conclusion

To sum up, fish oil supplements may increase the risks of stroke and heart issues, which aroused 

much public attention and commotion. Therefore, you should not only know the benefits of them

, but also needs to notices their downsides and drawbacks. Before making any decision, do remember to consult your doctor and carefully weigh the pros and cons.

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