Improvement of coronary vasomotion with eicosapentaenoic acid does not inhibit acetylcholine-induced coronary vasospasm in patients with variant angina.
We examined how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a key ingredient found in fish oil, impacts chest pain in patients with variant angina. Our study followed 22 individuals with this condition, where we infused acetylcholine, a substance known to cause coronary vasospasm, both before and after a four-month course of EPA treatment (1.8 g/day for 12 patients).
In the group that did not receive EPA, we observed no changes in how their coronary arteries responded to acetylcholine over time. However, for those treated with EPA, the results were quite intriguing. In non-spastic areas, the response shifted from vasoconstriction (narrowing) to vasodilation (widening). This indicates a notable improvement in how these arteries are functioning.
Yet, when it came to spastic sites where vasospasm had occurred, the coronary arteries remained responsive to acetylcholine, and the vasospasm persisted despite the EPA treatment. Thus, while EPA enhanced coronary responsiveness in some areas, it did not eliminate the acetylcholine-induced coronary vasospasms associated with variant angina.
Read More
8
Eicosapentaenoic acid may reduce chest pain
[Study of in vitro thromboxane A2 generation by platelets of patients with first-time appearing angina pectoris under the effect of fish diet].
We explored how an eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)-rich diet influences the generation of thromboxane A2 (TxA2) in patients experiencing first-time angina pectoris. TxA2 plays a crucial role in promoting blood clotting and causing spasms of the blood vessels, both of which are key issues in coronary heart diseases.
Our study compared the effects of an EPA-rich diet with a standard hospital diet on the ability of platelets to generate TxA2 when stimulated by ADP. Among the 12 patients with first angina, those who adhered to the standard hospital diet showed the capacity to produce TxA2 under these conditions. Conversely, those who consumed the EPA-rich diet did not exhibit this same generation of TxA2.
The findings suggest that the fish-based diet rich in EPA may positively affect platelet aggregation. We observed a reduced potential for harmful TxA2 generation in the patients on the EPA-rich diet, indicating a possible lower risk for vascular spasms associated with angina.
In conclusion, while more research is needed to confirm these effects, the initial results reveal that incorporating EPA into the diet might help alleviate some risks associated with chest pain due to its impact on platelet behavior.
Read More
8
Eicosapentaenoic acid shows potential
The long-term effect of dietary supplementation with fish lipid concentrate on serum lipids, bleeding time, platelets and angina.
We examined the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid—a key component in fish oil—on chest pain among 107 individuals over two years. Ninety-two of these participants had established heart disease or high cholesterol levels, while 15 did not have any history of heart problems.
Through this study, we found that serum triglyceride levels dropped quickly, suggesting a significant benefit for those dealing with high fat in the blood. While cholesterol levels decreased at a slower rate, intriguingly, the levels of good cholesterol (HDL) increased—often associated with better heart health.
Another notable finding was the lengthening of bleeding times and a reduced need for glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) tablets, which are often used to relieve angina attacks. This reduction in angina suggests that eicosapentaenoic acid might help alleviate chest pain by lowering the frequency of angina episodes and affecting platelet behavior, making them less likely to clump together.
However, it is essential to point out that while these changes promote heart health, this study did not compare the fish lipid concentrate with a placebo or an alternative treatment, leaving some of the isolated effects a little unclear. Overall, the trends observed are promising for heart disease management but should be interpreted with caution.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
7.5
Reduced joint pain
1 people found this helpful
No Cod Liver Oil taste! I've been taking this for a while now and I keep waiting for that awful flavour to start reappearing, but it doesn't! It's fantastic, plus the health benefits - I have noticed a reduction of joint pain with the CLO.
Read More
9
Minimal arthritis pain
Great product! This is an amazing item. I didn't start taking it for arthritis, but within two weeks my arthritis pain became only occasionally minimal. I have recommended this product to several people.
Read More
9
Removed my pain
Great for my autoimmune condition. It effectively removes my pain. I have tried many things.
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of fish oil and mustard oil in patients with suspected acute myocardial infarction: the Indian experiment of infarct survival--4.
We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to assess how eicosapentaenoic acid, found in fish oil, might impact chest pain in patients experiencing suspected acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Over one year, we compared outcomes among groups taking fish oil, mustard oil, and a placebo, all starting treatment roughly 18 hours after symptoms appeared.
Our findings highlighted that both fish oil and mustard oil groups experienced fewer overall cardiac events compared to the placebo group. However, while we did observe reductions in nonfatal infarctions and total cardiac deaths within the fish oil group, there was no similar reduction in chest pain or direct measures of angina specifically linked to these treatments.
Interestingly, the study indicated that levels of cardiac arrhythmias and left ventricular enlargement were also reduced in those taking fish oil and mustard oil compared to those on a placebo. While we saw some improvements in overall cardiac health, the direct effects on chest pain from taking eicosapentaenoic acid were not conclusively established in this trial.
Ultimately, although fish oil shows promise in improving various heart-related outcomes, the specific impact on chest pain wasn't distinctly proven through our study results. Further extensive research will be essential to draw firmer conclusions.
Read More
8
Eicosapentaenoic acid may reduce chest pain
[Study of in vitro thromboxane A2 generation by platelets of patients with first-time appearing angina pectoris under the effect of fish diet].
We explored how an eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)-rich diet influences the generation of thromboxane A2 (TxA2) in patients experiencing first-time angina pectoris. TxA2 plays a crucial role in promoting blood clotting and causing spasms of the blood vessels, both of which are key issues in coronary heart diseases.
Our study compared the effects of an EPA-rich diet with a standard hospital diet on the ability of platelets to generate TxA2 when stimulated by ADP. Among the 12 patients with first angina, those who adhered to the standard hospital diet showed the capacity to produce TxA2 under these conditions. Conversely, those who consumed the EPA-rich diet did not exhibit this same generation of TxA2.
The findings suggest that the fish-based diet rich in EPA may positively affect platelet aggregation. We observed a reduced potential for harmful TxA2 generation in the patients on the EPA-rich diet, indicating a possible lower risk for vascular spasms associated with angina.
In conclusion, while more research is needed to confirm these effects, the initial results reveal that incorporating EPA into the diet might help alleviate some risks associated with chest pain due to its impact on platelet behavior.
Read More
8
Eicosapentaenoic acid shows potential
The long-term effect of dietary supplementation with fish lipid concentrate on serum lipids, bleeding time, platelets and angina.
We examined the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid—a key component in fish oil—on chest pain among 107 individuals over two years. Ninety-two of these participants had established heart disease or high cholesterol levels, while 15 did not have any history of heart problems.
Through this study, we found that serum triglyceride levels dropped quickly, suggesting a significant benefit for those dealing with high fat in the blood. While cholesterol levels decreased at a slower rate, intriguingly, the levels of good cholesterol (HDL) increased—often associated with better heart health.
Another notable finding was the lengthening of bleeding times and a reduced need for glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) tablets, which are often used to relieve angina attacks. This reduction in angina suggests that eicosapentaenoic acid might help alleviate chest pain by lowering the frequency of angina episodes and affecting platelet behavior, making them less likely to clump together.
However, it is essential to point out that while these changes promote heart health, this study did not compare the fish lipid concentrate with a placebo or an alternative treatment, leaving some of the isolated effects a little unclear. Overall, the trends observed are promising for heart disease management but should be interpreted with caution.
Read More
7
Eicosapentaenoic acid and chest pain
Role of polyunsaturated fatty acids in Japanese patients with coronary spastic angina.
We explored how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, might play a role in managing chest pain, particularly for those suffering from coronary spastic angina (CSA). In our study, we looked at 406 patients who underwent an ergonovine tolerance test during coronary angiography to diagnose CSA.
The patients were divided into two age groups: young individuals (65 years or younger) and elderly individuals (older than 66). We found that for younger patients who tested positive for CSA, their serum levels of EPA were significantly higher compared to those without CSA. Specifically, the levels of EPA were 64.3 μg/mL in the CSA-positive group versus 49.4 μg/mL in the CSA-negative group, and this difference was statistically significant. Furthermore, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels also followed a similar pattern.
However, the same pattern did not hold for the elderly group, where the levels of these fatty acids did not show a clear relationship with CSA. Through our multivariate analysis, it became clear that higher levels of EPA and DHA were independently associated with CSA in younger patients, suggesting that these fatty acids may be influential in the pathophysiology of chest pain linked to CSA for this demographic.
Overall, while we demonstrated some intriguing links between EPA levels and chest pain in younger individuals, we found that these associations do not translate similarly for older adults.
Read More
7
Eicosapentaenoic acid aids plaque reduction
A randomized controlled trial of eicosapentaenoic acid in patients with coronary heart disease on statins.
We investigated whether adding eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) to high-dose pitavastatin could enhance coronary plaque regression and help manage chest pain in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). In a randomized controlled trial, 193 CHD patients who received percutaneous coronary intervention were divided into two groups: one received pitavastatin alone, while the other received both pitavastatin and EPA.
Over a period of 6 to 8 months, we observed that the combination of EPA and pitavastatin notably reduced coronary plaque volume compared to pitavastatin alone. This reduction was particularly significant for patients with stable angina pectoris (SAP), suggesting that EPA may have a more beneficial effect on chest pain in these patients.
However, despite the promising results for plaque reduction, the study did not report a direct decrease in the incidence of chest pain as a significant outcome measure. Overall, while EPA treatment appears to support coronary health and may be more effective for certain patients, the specific impact on chest pain requires further exploration.
No Cod Liver Oil taste! I've been taking this for a while now and I keep waiting for that awful flavour to start reappearing, but it doesn't! It's fantastic, plus the health benefits - I have noticed a reduction of joint pain with the CLO.
Read More
9
Minimal arthritis pain
Great product! This is an amazing item. I didn't start taking it for arthritis, but within two weeks my arthritis pain became only occasionally minimal. I have recommended this product to several people.
Read More
9
Removed my pain
Great for my autoimmune condition. It effectively removes my pain. I have tried many things.
Read More
7.5
Relieved pain
Firstly, the connection was quick and the yield was excellent, improving flexibility and relieving pain.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Chest pain is a broad term that refers to discomfort or pain felt in the chest area, and it can arise from a variety of causes. It can range from a sharp, stabbing sensation to a dull ache or pressure. Some common causes of chest pain include heart-related issues, such as angina or heart attacks, as well as non-cardiac conditions like acid reflux, musculoskeletal problems, or anxiety. Since chest pain can represent a serious condition, especially if it is sudden and severe, it's crucial to pay attention to accompanying symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea, which may warrant immediate medical attention.
If you're experiencing chest pain, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. They may perform tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause. Early identification of heart-related issues can be life-saving, while non-cardiac causes, though often less serious, still require appropriate assessment and treatment. Understanding the context and quality of the pain can help guide that conversation with your doctor, ensuring you receive the best care possible.
Cod liver oil is a nutritional supplement derived from the liver of codfish, primarily the Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). This oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, which are essential for heart and brain health. Additionally, cod liver oil is an excellent source of vitamins A and D, which play critical roles in immune function, vision, and bone health. Often available in liquid form or as softgel capsules, it has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to support overall wellness.
In recent years, cod liver oil has gained popularity as a supplement among health enthusiasts seeking to boost their intake of these vital nutrients. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before adding cod liver oil to your daily regimen, especially for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications. While it can offer considerable health benefits, potential vitamin toxicity and fish allergies are factors to consider. As always, sourcing high-quality cod liver oil from reputable brands ensures you are receiving a product that's free from harmful contaminants and delivers the intended health benefits.
While cod liver oil is renowned for its omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D content, there is limited scientific evidence directly linking it to alleviating chest pain. Cod liver oil is often taken for its potential cardiovascular benefits, as omega-3 fatty acids can help lower inflammation, improve heart health, and may reduce the risk of heart disease. However, chest pain can be a symptom of various underlying conditions, and it is crucial to address these issues with a healthcare professional rather than relying on supplements alone.
If you're experiencing chest pain, it's important to seek medical attention to determine the cause, as it can be indicative of serious health issues like heart disease. While incorporating cod liver oil into your diet may offer general health benefits, it should not be viewed as a specific remedy for chest pain. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you're dealing with symptoms related to heart health.
Based on user reviews, the onset of noticeable results from taking this supplement varies, but some users report improvements within just a couple of weeks. For instance, one reviewer mentioned that they experienced a significant reduction in arthritis pain after only two weeks of use, stating that their pain became "only occasionally minimal" during this time Read Review. Another user highlighted the effectiveness of the supplement for relieving pain associated with an autoimmune condition, suggesting that positive effects can manifest relatively quickly Read Review.
Overall, while individual experiences will vary, many users seem to notice beneficial effects within a time frame of one to two weeks, particularly regarding pain relief and improved joint function. If you're considering this supplement for chest pain, it may be worth monitoring your responses within a similar timeframe.
The scientific literature presents mixed evidence on the effectiveness of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in managing chest pain. One study indicated that higher serum levels of EPA were associated with coronary spastic angina (CSA) in younger patients, suggesting a potential influence in this demographic [1]. Yet, the same beneficial effects were not observed in older adults, highlighting that the age-related factors must be considered when assessing EPA's role in chest pain management.
Other research, including a randomized controlled trial, found that while combining EPA with statin treatment appeared to reduce coronary plaque volume in patients with coronary heart disease, it did not significantly correlate with a decrease in chest pain incidents [2]. Additionally, some studies noted no direct reduction in chest pain outcomes among those treated with EPA, suggesting that its primary benefits might not directly address chest pain relief [3], [6]. In summary, while certain studies hint at EPA's potential benefits for heart health and some aspects of chest pain, more extensive research is necessary to clarify its effectiveness specifically for alleviating chest pain.
According to user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in their symptoms after taking this supplement. For instance, one user noted a noticeable reduction in joint pain that accompanied their use of cod liver oil, praising it for both its taste-free formulation and health benefits Read Review. Another reviewer, who initially wasn't looking for arthritis relief, found that within two weeks, their arthritis pain had diminished to "only occasionally minimal" levels, indicating a rapid response to the supplement Read Review.
Additionally, users tackling autoimmune conditions have reported effective pain relief, suggesting a positive impact on overall comfort and well-being Read Review. Another review emphasizes improvements in flexibility and pain relief as well Read Review. While individual results may vary, these anecdotes suggest that users often experience beneficial effects ranging from reduced pain to improved mobility, typically within a short period of starting the supplement.
9
Minimal arthritis pain
Great product! This is an amazing item. I didn't start taking it for arthritis, but within two weeks my arthritis pain became only occasionally minimal. I have recommended this product to several people.
9
Removed my pain
Great for my autoimmune condition. It effectively removes my pain. I have tried many things.
7.5
Reduced joint pain
1 people found this helpful
No Cod Liver Oil taste! I've been taking this for a while now and I keep waiting for that awful flavour to start reappearing, but it doesn't! It's fantastic, plus the health benefits - I have noticed a reduction of joint pain with the CLO.
7.5
Relieved pain
Firstly, the connection was quick and the yield was excellent, improving flexibility and relieving pain.
7
Eicosapentaenoic acid and chest pain
Role of polyunsaturated fatty acids in Japanese patients with coronary spastic angina.
We explored how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, might play a role in managing chest pain, particularly for those suffering from coronary spastic angina (CSA). In our study, we looked at 406 patients who underwent an ergonovine tolerance test during coronary angiography to diagnose CSA.
The patients were divided into two age groups: young individuals (65 years or younger) and elderly individuals (older than 66). We found that for younger patients who tested positive for CSA, their serum levels of EPA were significantly higher compared to those without CSA. Specifically, the levels of EPA were 64.3 μg/mL in the CSA-positive group versus 49.4 μg/mL in the CSA-negative group, and this difference was statistically significant. Furthermore, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels also followed a similar pattern.
However, the same pattern did not hold for the elderly group, where the levels of these fatty acids did not show a clear relationship with CSA. Through our multivariate analysis, it became clear that higher levels of EPA and DHA were independently associated with CSA in younger patients, suggesting that these fatty acids may be influential in the pathophysiology of chest pain linked to CSA for this demographic.
Overall, while we demonstrated some intriguing links between EPA levels and chest pain in younger individuals, we found that these associations do not translate similarly for older adults.
7
Eicosapentaenoic acid aids plaque reduction
A randomized controlled trial of eicosapentaenoic acid in patients with coronary heart disease on statins.
We investigated whether adding eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) to high-dose pitavastatin could enhance coronary plaque regression and help manage chest pain in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). In a randomized controlled trial, 193 CHD patients who received percutaneous coronary intervention were divided into two groups: one received pitavastatin alone, while the other received both pitavastatin and EPA.
Over a period of 6 to 8 months, we observed that the combination of EPA and pitavastatin notably reduced coronary plaque volume compared to pitavastatin alone. This reduction was particularly significant for patients with stable angina pectoris (SAP), suggesting that EPA may have a more beneficial effect on chest pain in these patients.
However, despite the promising results for plaque reduction, the study did not report a direct decrease in the incidence of chest pain as a significant outcome measure. Overall, while EPA treatment appears to support coronary health and may be more effective for certain patients, the specific impact on chest pain requires further exploration.
8
Eicosapentaenoic acid’s effects inconclusive
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of fish oil and mustard oil in patients with suspected acute myocardial infarction: the Indian experiment of infarct survival--4.
We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to assess how eicosapentaenoic acid, found in fish oil, might impact chest pain in patients experiencing suspected acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Over one year, we compared outcomes among groups taking fish oil, mustard oil, and a placebo, all starting treatment roughly 18 hours after symptoms appeared.
Our findings highlighted that both fish oil and mustard oil groups experienced fewer overall cardiac events compared to the placebo group. However, while we did observe reductions in nonfatal infarctions and total cardiac deaths within the fish oil group, there was no similar reduction in chest pain or direct measures of angina specifically linked to these treatments.
Interestingly, the study indicated that levels of cardiac arrhythmias and left ventricular enlargement were also reduced in those taking fish oil and mustard oil compared to those on a placebo. While we saw some improvements in overall cardiac health, the direct effects on chest pain from taking eicosapentaenoic acid were not conclusively established in this trial.
Ultimately, although fish oil shows promise in improving various heart-related outcomes, the specific impact on chest pain wasn't distinctly proven through our study results. Further extensive research will be essential to draw firmer conclusions.
4
Fish oil effects on angina unclear
The effect of fish oil on lipids, coagulation and fibrinolysis in patients with angina pectoris.
We examined the effects of fish oil, particularly focusing on eicosapentaenoic acid, in patients with stable angina pectoris. In the study, participants first received a supplement of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids for four weeks. After this initial phase, they were randomly assigned to continue with the same oil or switch to fish oil, which included n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, for an additional 12 weeks.
Blood samples were collected before and after the 16 weeks of supplementation to look at changes in lipids, coagulation, and fibrinolysis. Although we found significant reductions in triglycerides and very low-density lipoproteins, we also saw an unexpected rise in total cholesterol levels from 5.9 to 6.7 mmol/L after taking fish oil.
It’s important to note that we observed a decrease in fibrinolytic activity at rest following the fish oil supplementation. Other measurements showed no statistically significant changes, which leads us to conclude that there isn't strong evidence to suggest that eicosapentaenoic acid directly alleviates chest pain in these patients. Therefore, we recommend caution with the uncontrolled use of fish oil supplements for patients experiencing stable angina pectoris.
References
Tawara K, Akioka H, Sato H, Sato T, Takahashi M, et al. Role of polyunsaturated fatty acids in Japanese patients with coronary spastic angina. J Cardiol. 2023;82:455. 10.1016/j.jjcc.2023.07.001
Watanabe T, Ando K, Daidoji H, Otaki Y, Sugawara S, et al. A randomized controlled trial of eicosapentaenoic acid in patients with coronary heart disease on statins. J Cardiol. 2017;70:537. 10.1016/j.jjcc.2017.07.007
Singh RB, Niaz MA, Sharma JP, Kumar R, Rastogi V, et al. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of fish oil and mustard oil in patients with suspected acute myocardial infarction: the Indian experiment of infarct survival--4. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther. 1997;11:485.
Yamamoto H, Yoshimura H, Noma M, Suzuki S, Kai H, et al. Improvement of coronary vasomotion with eicosapentaenoic acid does not inhibit acetylcholine-induced coronary vasospasm in patients with variant angina. Jpn Circ J. 1995;59:608.
Zykova VP, Perova NV, Kalinkina OM. [Study of in vitro thromboxane A2 generation by platelets of patients with first-time appearing angina pectoris under the effect of fish diet]. Kardiologiia. 1990;30:24.
Schmidt EB, Kristensen SD, Dyerberg J. The effect of fish oil on lipids, coagulation and fibrinolysis in patients with angina pectoris. Artery. 1988;15:316.
Kondo T, Ogawa K, Satake T, Kitazawa M, Taki K, et al. Plasma-free eicosapentaenoic acid/arachidonic acid ratio: a possible new coronary risk factor. Clin Cardiol. 1986;9:413.
Saynor R, Verel D, Gillott T. The long-term effect of dietary supplementation with fish lipid concentrate on serum lipids, bleeding time, platelets and angina. Atherosclerosis. 1984;50:3.