Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 25 Researches
7.3
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 100 Reviews
7.9
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Softgel
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Calories
15
Total Fat
1.5 g
2%**
Wild Caught Fish Oil Concentrate
1250 mg
†
Total Omega-3 Fatty Acids as TG
1055 mg
†
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
690 mg
†
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
310 mg
†
Other Omega-3 Fatty Acids
55 mg
†
Top Medical Research Studies
9
We explored the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, on heart disease through a significant study known as the VITAL trial. This study involved nearly 26,000 older adults in the U.S. and aimed to determine the effects of daily EPA supplementation on cardiovascular events over an average follow-up of 5.3 years.
Initially, the results from VITAL seemed to show that omega-3 supplementation had no significant effect on major cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. However, by applying Bayesian methods and considering prior research in the field, we observed a more nuanced outcome. Our analysis suggested that taking EPA regularly could significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease events, while not showing similar benefits for stroke.
This finding supports the use of omega-3 fatty acids as a preventive measure for heart health, especially regarding coronary events. Although we didn't find evidence of a benefit for all types of cardiovascular events, the enhanced understanding gained from this reanalysis contributes valuable insights for both clinicians and patients considering omega-3 supplementation for heart disease prevention.
Initially, the results from VITAL seemed to show that omega-3 supplementation had no significant effect on major cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. However, by applying Bayesian methods and considering prior research in the field, we observed a more nuanced outcome. Our analysis suggested that taking EPA regularly could significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease events, while not showing similar benefits for stroke.
This finding supports the use of omega-3 fatty acids as a preventive measure for heart health, especially regarding coronary events. Although we didn't find evidence of a benefit for all types of cardiovascular events, the enhanced understanding gained from this reanalysis contributes valuable insights for both clinicians and patients considering omega-3 supplementation for heart disease prevention.
Read More
9
We explored the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on heart disease, particularly diabetic cardiomyopathy (DC). This condition is a significant cause of heart failure, yet until now, effective treatment options have been limited. Our study focused on the protective role of EPA in diabetic mice induced by streptozotocin and high-fat diets.
Our findings indicate that EPA is beneficial in reducing the harmful M1-polarized macrophages in the heart. In laboratory tests, EPA showed the ability to protect heart cells from damage caused by these inflammatory cells by shifting the macrophage type from M1 to Mox, rather than to the M2 type. This is crucial since Mox polarization can help shield heart cells from the adverse effects of M1 macrophages.
Additionally, we discovered that a protein called heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) plays a crucial role in sustaining this protective Mox phenotype. EPA promotes HO-1 levels, which in turn helps reduce M1 polarization and its damaging effects on heart cells. Even more promising, EPA was shown to enhance Mox polarization in macrophages derived from diabetic patients, indicating its potential as a treatment strategy.
Overall, our research highlights EPA and macrophage Mox polarization as innovative approaches to combat diabetic cardiomyopathy, showcasing a new avenue in the fight against heart disease.
Our findings indicate that EPA is beneficial in reducing the harmful M1-polarized macrophages in the heart. In laboratory tests, EPA showed the ability to protect heart cells from damage caused by these inflammatory cells by shifting the macrophage type from M1 to Mox, rather than to the M2 type. This is crucial since Mox polarization can help shield heart cells from the adverse effects of M1 macrophages.
Additionally, we discovered that a protein called heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) plays a crucial role in sustaining this protective Mox phenotype. EPA promotes HO-1 levels, which in turn helps reduce M1 polarization and its damaging effects on heart cells. Even more promising, EPA was shown to enhance Mox polarization in macrophages derived from diabetic patients, indicating its potential as a treatment strategy.
Overall, our research highlights EPA and macrophage Mox polarization as innovative approaches to combat diabetic cardiomyopathy, showcasing a new avenue in the fight against heart disease.
Read More
8
We evaluated the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on heart disease, specifically focusing on its potential to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and cardiovascular mortality (CVD mortality). Through a systematic review and meta-analysis, we gathered insights from 10 prospective cohort studies involving a total of 310,955 participants over an average follow-up period of 8.7 years.
Our analysis revealed that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA, in the blood were associated with a lower risk of both SCD and CVD mortality. Specifically, we found that individuals with high circulating levels of EPA and other omega-3s had a significantly reduced hazard ratio of 0.55 for SCD compared to those with lower levels. This suggests a protective effect linked to increased EPA intake.
Furthermore, our sub-analysis indicated that higher percentages of EPA and another omega-3 called DHA in the blood also correlated with a reduced risk of adverse cardiac events. These findings highlight the promising role of EPA as a beneficial component in cardiovascular health strategies.
Overall, the evidence suggests that increasing our intake of EPA could serve as an effective measure to lessen the incidence of serious heart-related issues, making it a topic worth considering in future dietary recommendations.
Our analysis revealed that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA, in the blood were associated with a lower risk of both SCD and CVD mortality. Specifically, we found that individuals with high circulating levels of EPA and other omega-3s had a significantly reduced hazard ratio of 0.55 for SCD compared to those with lower levels. This suggests a protective effect linked to increased EPA intake.
Furthermore, our sub-analysis indicated that higher percentages of EPA and another omega-3 called DHA in the blood also correlated with a reduced risk of adverse cardiac events. These findings highlight the promising role of EPA as a beneficial component in cardiovascular health strategies.
Overall, the evidence suggests that increasing our intake of EPA could serve as an effective measure to lessen the incidence of serious heart-related issues, making it a topic worth considering in future dietary recommendations.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Reduced heart risks
6 people found this helpful
Awesome! I trust this brand, which has been reliable for years. My husband and I regularly take it to maintain our beauty, youth, and health, while significantly reducing the risk of heart disease. Symptoms of Omega-3 deficiencies are easily noticed, including dry skin and joint pain. Omega-3 significantly enhances blood circulation, brain function, and metabolism, besides having anti-inflammatory properties.
Read More
9
Heart health benefits
6 people found this helpful
Omega-3 provides numerous benefits including promoting heart health and reducing triglyceride levels. It’s also known for improving brain health and combatting depression, alongside delivering significant doses of DHA and EPA. Overall, it contributes to general well-being, allowing one to remain happy.
Read More
9
Highly recommended omega
6 people found this helpful
This is the best omega from the iHerb site. This brand is well-known for its quality. The effect is clear after taking it. I highly recommend it.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 25 Researches
7.3
- All Researches
9
We explored the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, on heart disease through a significant study known as the VITAL trial. This study involved nearly 26,000 older adults in the U.S. and aimed to determine the effects of daily EPA supplementation on cardiovascular events over an average follow-up of 5.3 years.
Initially, the results from VITAL seemed to show that omega-3 supplementation had no significant effect on major cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. However, by applying Bayesian methods and considering prior research in the field, we observed a more nuanced outcome. Our analysis suggested that taking EPA regularly could significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease events, while not showing similar benefits for stroke.
This finding supports the use of omega-3 fatty acids as a preventive measure for heart health, especially regarding coronary events. Although we didn't find evidence of a benefit for all types of cardiovascular events, the enhanced understanding gained from this reanalysis contributes valuable insights for both clinicians and patients considering omega-3 supplementation for heart disease prevention.
Initially, the results from VITAL seemed to show that omega-3 supplementation had no significant effect on major cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. However, by applying Bayesian methods and considering prior research in the field, we observed a more nuanced outcome. Our analysis suggested that taking EPA regularly could significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease events, while not showing similar benefits for stroke.
This finding supports the use of omega-3 fatty acids as a preventive measure for heart health, especially regarding coronary events. Although we didn't find evidence of a benefit for all types of cardiovascular events, the enhanced understanding gained from this reanalysis contributes valuable insights for both clinicians and patients considering omega-3 supplementation for heart disease prevention.
Read More
9
We explored how eicosapentaenoic acid (a type of omega-3 fatty acid) can play a role in improving heart health, particularly in individuals with heart failure. Our analysis involved a network meta-analysis of numerous randomized controlled trials, focusing on the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid on heart function.
The findings showed that high doses of omega-3 supplements, specifically between 2000 to 4000 mg per day, taken for at least a year, can significantly enhance left ventricular ejection fraction, which is an important measure of heart function. This is encouraging news for patients struggling with heart failure, as a better ejection fraction can lead to improved heart health.
We also observed improvements in peak oxygen consumption, offering further evidence of how eicosapentaenoic acid can boost cardiac performance. Importantly, we found no significant increases in dropout rates or overall mortality among those taking omega-3 supplements compared to those not taking them. This suggests that the benefits come without added risks.
Overall, our research underscores the potential of long-term, high-dose eicosapentaenoic acid supplementation as a supportive treatment option for heart failure patients, advocating for further studies to confirm these promising results and help refine treatment recommendations.
The findings showed that high doses of omega-3 supplements, specifically between 2000 to 4000 mg per day, taken for at least a year, can significantly enhance left ventricular ejection fraction, which is an important measure of heart function. This is encouraging news for patients struggling with heart failure, as a better ejection fraction can lead to improved heart health.
We also observed improvements in peak oxygen consumption, offering further evidence of how eicosapentaenoic acid can boost cardiac performance. Importantly, we found no significant increases in dropout rates or overall mortality among those taking omega-3 supplements compared to those not taking them. This suggests that the benefits come without added risks.
Overall, our research underscores the potential of long-term, high-dose eicosapentaenoic acid supplementation as a supportive treatment option for heart failure patients, advocating for further studies to confirm these promising results and help refine treatment recommendations.
Read More
9
We explored the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on heart disease, particularly diabetic cardiomyopathy (DC). This condition is a significant cause of heart failure, yet until now, effective treatment options have been limited. Our study focused on the protective role of EPA in diabetic mice induced by streptozotocin and high-fat diets.
Our findings indicate that EPA is beneficial in reducing the harmful M1-polarized macrophages in the heart. In laboratory tests, EPA showed the ability to protect heart cells from damage caused by these inflammatory cells by shifting the macrophage type from M1 to Mox, rather than to the M2 type. This is crucial since Mox polarization can help shield heart cells from the adverse effects of M1 macrophages.
Additionally, we discovered that a protein called heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) plays a crucial role in sustaining this protective Mox phenotype. EPA promotes HO-1 levels, which in turn helps reduce M1 polarization and its damaging effects on heart cells. Even more promising, EPA was shown to enhance Mox polarization in macrophages derived from diabetic patients, indicating its potential as a treatment strategy.
Overall, our research highlights EPA and macrophage Mox polarization as innovative approaches to combat diabetic cardiomyopathy, showcasing a new avenue in the fight against heart disease.
Our findings indicate that EPA is beneficial in reducing the harmful M1-polarized macrophages in the heart. In laboratory tests, EPA showed the ability to protect heart cells from damage caused by these inflammatory cells by shifting the macrophage type from M1 to Mox, rather than to the M2 type. This is crucial since Mox polarization can help shield heart cells from the adverse effects of M1 macrophages.
Additionally, we discovered that a protein called heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) plays a crucial role in sustaining this protective Mox phenotype. EPA promotes HO-1 levels, which in turn helps reduce M1 polarization and its damaging effects on heart cells. Even more promising, EPA was shown to enhance Mox polarization in macrophages derived from diabetic patients, indicating its potential as a treatment strategy.
Overall, our research highlights EPA and macrophage Mox polarization as innovative approaches to combat diabetic cardiomyopathy, showcasing a new avenue in the fight against heart disease.
Read More
9
We explored the connection between omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and coronary heart disease (CHD). Our analysis reviewed 36 observational studies that included both prospective and retrospective designs, offering a well-rounded look at how different omega-3 levels may impact heart health.
The results highlighted a clear trend: higher levels of various omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA, were associated with a reduced risk of developing CHD. We noted that groups with elevated omega-3 levels displayed lower relative risks—indicating that maintaining a sufficient intake of these fatty acids could be beneficial for heart health.
Interestingly, our findings revealed that patients with CHD had significantly lower omega-3 levels compared to healthier individuals. Moreover, specific subtypes of omega-3, such as EPA and DHA, demonstrated a particularly strong inverse relationship with both fatal and non-fatal heart disease events.
Overall, this analysis shows that omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, are linked to a decreased risk of CHD. Our findings support the idea that integrating these nutrients into our diets may provide protective benefits against heart disease.
The results highlighted a clear trend: higher levels of various omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA, were associated with a reduced risk of developing CHD. We noted that groups with elevated omega-3 levels displayed lower relative risks—indicating that maintaining a sufficient intake of these fatty acids could be beneficial for heart health.
Interestingly, our findings revealed that patients with CHD had significantly lower omega-3 levels compared to healthier individuals. Moreover, specific subtypes of omega-3, such as EPA and DHA, demonstrated a particularly strong inverse relationship with both fatal and non-fatal heart disease events.
Overall, this analysis shows that omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, are linked to a decreased risk of CHD. Our findings support the idea that integrating these nutrients into our diets may provide protective benefits against heart disease.
Read More
9
We explored how fish oil supplementation and higher levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, are linked to the risks of heart disease and other complications in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Analyzing data from over 20,000 participants, we found that those who used fish oil regularly experienced fewer macrovascular issues, like coronary heart disease, and microvascular problems, such as diabetic retinopathy.
Specifically, the study revealed that taking fish oil led to a 10% lower risk of macrovascular complications overall. Moreover, the likelihood of heart disease decreased by about 9% for those who took fish oil when compared to those who didn't.
The positive effects were partially attributed to improvements in lipid profiles and inflammation markers. Higher concentrations of plasma DHA were particularly influential; those in the top quartile had a 32% reduced risk of heart disease. Our findings suggest that incorporating fish oil supplements and DHA into one’s diet may help protect against heart-related complications for people managing diabetes.
Specifically, the study revealed that taking fish oil led to a 10% lower risk of macrovascular complications overall. Moreover, the likelihood of heart disease decreased by about 9% for those who took fish oil when compared to those who didn't.
The positive effects were partially attributed to improvements in lipid profiles and inflammation markers. Higher concentrations of plasma DHA were particularly influential; those in the top quartile had a 32% reduced risk of heart disease. Our findings suggest that incorporating fish oil supplements and DHA into one’s diet may help protect against heart-related complications for people managing diabetes.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 100 Reviews
7.9
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Reduced heart risks
6 people found this helpful
Awesome! I trust this brand, which has been reliable for years. My husband and I regularly take it to maintain our beauty, youth, and health, while significantly reducing the risk of heart disease. Symptoms of Omega-3 deficiencies are easily noticed, including dry skin and joint pain. Omega-3 significantly enhances blood circulation, brain function, and metabolism, besides having anti-inflammatory properties.
Read More
9
Heart health benefits
6 people found this helpful
Omega-3 provides numerous benefits including promoting heart health and reducing triglyceride levels. It’s also known for improving brain health and combatting depression, alongside delivering significant doses of DHA and EPA. Overall, it contributes to general well-being, allowing one to remain happy.
Read More
9
Highly recommended omega
6 people found this helpful
This is the best omega from the iHerb site. This brand is well-known for its quality. The effect is clear after taking it. I highly recommend it.
Read More
7.5
Lowered blood pressure
6 people found this helpful
Omega-3 fatty acids are excellent for heart health, lowering triglycerides and blood pressure, reducing blood clotting and the risks of stroke and heart failure. The quality is superb; one pill is enough, and I've reordered it already. The taste is pleasant and minimal, making it easy to consume.
Read More
8
Strengthened immunity
5 people found this helpful
One of the best omegas on iHerb! Great value for money and quality. It supports immunity, reduces the risk of heart disease, and improves brain function. The EPA/DHA ratio is nearly perfect. Since I don’t consume sea fish, I rely on capsules for my omega intake, ensuring I store them in the fridge. It’s best not to take on an empty stomach.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Enhances overall well-being
1 people found this helpful
Great! I’m very pleased with the results from taking this fish oil with Omega-3. After a few weeks, I noticed more energy, better mood, and improved concentration. Also, my skin looks healthier, and my hair and nails are stronger. Omega-3 supports heart and brain functionality, and I genuinely feel the difference. The capsules are easy to swallow and there’s no unpleasant fishy aftertaste. It’s now an essential part of my daily routine, and I recommend it to anyone who values their health!
9
Family benefit
4 people found this helpful
I purchased this for my mother with heart disease, and it has made a significant difference. We take one capsule daily with meals, and after three years of Omega 3, our entire family, including my mother, feels fantastic. This fish oil is the best I've tried.
9
Heart relief experienced
1 people found this helpful
One of the most effective omega-3 supplements! Thanks to its high dosage, I felt a difference almost immediately. A few days later, my heart no longer bothered me at night, and my joints felt better. I highly recommend this high-quality omega-3!
9
Supports cardiovascular health
2 people found this helpful
Omega-3 pills reduce cholesterol, triglycerides, and lipoprotein levels in the blood, and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. They significantly contribute to the development of the fetus, aiding in the brain, eyes, and nervous system growth. Research shows that sufficient Omega-3 intake may decrease prenatal depression in women.
9
Normalises cholesterol levels
1 people found this helpful
I love this company and often buy their vitamins as they truly work. The quality of this omega is top-notch. Each capsule contains the equivalent of three standard dosages. My cardiologist advised taking omega for lowering cholesterol and maintaining heart function. After a course of this omega, my cholesterol returned to normal. I also appreciate the packaging; it makes it easy to find my vitamins on the shelf.
9
Reduced heart risks
6 people found this helpful
Awesome! I trust this brand, which has been reliable for years. My husband and I regularly take it to maintain our beauty, youth, and health, while significantly reducing the risk of heart disease. Symptoms of Omega-3 deficiencies are easily noticed, including dry skin and joint pain. Omega-3 significantly enhances blood circulation, brain function, and metabolism, besides having anti-inflammatory properties.
10
Boosts heart health
2 people found this helpful
Omega-3 is the natural magic for heart and brain health! It boosts memory and improves both heart and joint health. Excellent quality, great taste, and no unpleasant odour. It provides important fatty acids, DHA and EPA, with extensive health benefits for the body and mind. I hope my comment helps you consider Omega-3 as part of your diet!
9
Family staple
1 people found this helpful
An excellent omega from a reputable manufacturer and one of the best on the site. This supplement should always be in your diet, best taken in courses, 2-3 times a year with breaks. I take one capsule daily with a fat-rich breakfast. Omega is a constant purchase for my family, positively impacting the heart, reducing overall inflammation, maintaining healthy skin and hair, and lowering bad cholesterol. The flavour is mild, the quality is high, and the capsule size is manageable.
9
We explored the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, on heart disease through a significant study known as the VITAL trial. This study involved nearly 26,000 older adults in the U.S. and aimed to determine the effects of daily EPA supplementation on cardiovascular events over an average follow-up of 5.3 years.
Initially, the results from VITAL seemed to show that omega-3 supplementation had no significant effect on major cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. However, by applying Bayesian methods and considering prior research in the field, we observed a more nuanced outcome. Our analysis suggested that taking EPA regularly could significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease events, while not showing similar benefits for stroke.
This finding supports the use of omega-3 fatty acids as a preventive measure for heart health, especially regarding coronary events. Although we didn't find evidence of a benefit for all types of cardiovascular events, the enhanced understanding gained from this reanalysis contributes valuable insights for both clinicians and patients considering omega-3 supplementation for heart disease prevention.
Initially, the results from VITAL seemed to show that omega-3 supplementation had no significant effect on major cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. However, by applying Bayesian methods and considering prior research in the field, we observed a more nuanced outcome. Our analysis suggested that taking EPA regularly could significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease events, while not showing similar benefits for stroke.
This finding supports the use of omega-3 fatty acids as a preventive measure for heart health, especially regarding coronary events. Although we didn't find evidence of a benefit for all types of cardiovascular events, the enhanced understanding gained from this reanalysis contributes valuable insights for both clinicians and patients considering omega-3 supplementation for heart disease prevention.
8
Cardiovascular benefits of eicosapentaenoic acid
We explored the effectiveness of icosapent ethyl, a formulation of eicosapentaenoic acid, in reducing cardiovascular risks among patients who were already on statin therapy. The focus was on individuals with elevated triglyceride levels and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) at a baseline of 41 to 100 mg/dL.
In this comprehensive analysis of the REDUCE-IT trial, we observed that patients were randomly assigned to receive either icosapent ethyl or a placebo, allowing for a clear comparison of results. The findings revealed that even those with well-controlled LDL-C levels, categorized as less than 55 mg/dL, exhibited significant benefits in cardiovascular outcomes when treated with icosapent ethyl.
Specifically, patients with LDL-C below 55 mg/dL experienced a notable reduction in primary cardiovascular events, with a reported decrease in rates from 22.8% to 16.2%. We also found similar outcomes in patients with LDL-C of 55 mg/dL or higher, further emphasizing the drug's potential effectiveness across different baseline cholesterol levels.
Overall, the study suggests that icosapent ethyl can confer cardiovascular benefits regardless of a patient's baseline LDL-C, indicating its importance in heart disease management, particularly for those at high cardiovascular risk.
In this comprehensive analysis of the REDUCE-IT trial, we observed that patients were randomly assigned to receive either icosapent ethyl or a placebo, allowing for a clear comparison of results. The findings revealed that even those with well-controlled LDL-C levels, categorized as less than 55 mg/dL, exhibited significant benefits in cardiovascular outcomes when treated with icosapent ethyl.
Specifically, patients with LDL-C below 55 mg/dL experienced a notable reduction in primary cardiovascular events, with a reported decrease in rates from 22.8% to 16.2%. We also found similar outcomes in patients with LDL-C of 55 mg/dL or higher, further emphasizing the drug's potential effectiveness across different baseline cholesterol levels.
Overall, the study suggests that icosapent ethyl can confer cardiovascular benefits regardless of a patient's baseline LDL-C, indicating its importance in heart disease management, particularly for those at high cardiovascular risk.
4
We sought to understand the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, on heart disease, focusing specifically on its effects regarding atrial fibrillation (AF). In our exploration, we reviewed various studies, including randomized clinical trials and observational studies, to gather insights into how EPA influences heart health.
Our review highlighted a complex relationship. On one hand, higher dietary intake of omega-3s like EPA was linked to a decreased risk of developing AF. On the other hand, we observed that when EPA was administered in pharmaceutical doses, it appeared to increase the risk of AF in a dose-dependent way—meaning that higher doses tended to lead to a greater increase in risk.
Interestingly, we found that the mechanism behind this could be related to vagal tone, which reflects how well the vagus nerve regulates heart functions. While lower levels of vagal stimulation might protect against AF, excessive stimulation may increase its risk. This suggests that while incorporating more omega-3s into our diets could be beneficial, the approach to supplementation needs careful consideration.
Overall, our findings suggest a potentially double-edged sword when it comes to eicosapentaenoic acid: while it can lower AF risk through dietary sources, higher medicinal doses may do the opposite. We need to balance dietary habits with our approach to supplements to ensure heart health.
Our review highlighted a complex relationship. On one hand, higher dietary intake of omega-3s like EPA was linked to a decreased risk of developing AF. On the other hand, we observed that when EPA was administered in pharmaceutical doses, it appeared to increase the risk of AF in a dose-dependent way—meaning that higher doses tended to lead to a greater increase in risk.
Interestingly, we found that the mechanism behind this could be related to vagal tone, which reflects how well the vagus nerve regulates heart functions. While lower levels of vagal stimulation might protect against AF, excessive stimulation may increase its risk. This suggests that while incorporating more omega-3s into our diets could be beneficial, the approach to supplementation needs careful consideration.
Overall, our findings suggest a potentially double-edged sword when it comes to eicosapentaenoic acid: while it can lower AF risk through dietary sources, higher medicinal doses may do the opposite. We need to balance dietary habits with our approach to supplements to ensure heart health.
8
We evaluated the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on heart disease, specifically focusing on its potential to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and cardiovascular mortality (CVD mortality). Through a systematic review and meta-analysis, we gathered insights from 10 prospective cohort studies involving a total of 310,955 participants over an average follow-up period of 8.7 years.
Our analysis revealed that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA, in the blood were associated with a lower risk of both SCD and CVD mortality. Specifically, we found that individuals with high circulating levels of EPA and other omega-3s had a significantly reduced hazard ratio of 0.55 for SCD compared to those with lower levels. This suggests a protective effect linked to increased EPA intake.
Furthermore, our sub-analysis indicated that higher percentages of EPA and another omega-3 called DHA in the blood also correlated with a reduced risk of adverse cardiac events. These findings highlight the promising role of EPA as a beneficial component in cardiovascular health strategies.
Overall, the evidence suggests that increasing our intake of EPA could serve as an effective measure to lessen the incidence of serious heart-related issues, making it a topic worth considering in future dietary recommendations.
Our analysis revealed that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA, in the blood were associated with a lower risk of both SCD and CVD mortality. Specifically, we found that individuals with high circulating levels of EPA and other omega-3s had a significantly reduced hazard ratio of 0.55 for SCD compared to those with lower levels. This suggests a protective effect linked to increased EPA intake.
Furthermore, our sub-analysis indicated that higher percentages of EPA and another omega-3 called DHA in the blood also correlated with a reduced risk of adverse cardiac events. These findings highlight the promising role of EPA as a beneficial component in cardiovascular health strategies.
Overall, the evidence suggests that increasing our intake of EPA could serve as an effective measure to lessen the incidence of serious heart-related issues, making it a topic worth considering in future dietary recommendations.
9
We explored how eicosapentaenoic acid (a type of omega-3 fatty acid) can play a role in improving heart health, particularly in individuals with heart failure. Our analysis involved a network meta-analysis of numerous randomized controlled trials, focusing on the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid on heart function.
The findings showed that high doses of omega-3 supplements, specifically between 2000 to 4000 mg per day, taken for at least a year, can significantly enhance left ventricular ejection fraction, which is an important measure of heart function. This is encouraging news for patients struggling with heart failure, as a better ejection fraction can lead to improved heart health.
We also observed improvements in peak oxygen consumption, offering further evidence of how eicosapentaenoic acid can boost cardiac performance. Importantly, we found no significant increases in dropout rates or overall mortality among those taking omega-3 supplements compared to those not taking them. This suggests that the benefits come without added risks.
Overall, our research underscores the potential of long-term, high-dose eicosapentaenoic acid supplementation as a supportive treatment option for heart failure patients, advocating for further studies to confirm these promising results and help refine treatment recommendations.
The findings showed that high doses of omega-3 supplements, specifically between 2000 to 4000 mg per day, taken for at least a year, can significantly enhance left ventricular ejection fraction, which is an important measure of heart function. This is encouraging news for patients struggling with heart failure, as a better ejection fraction can lead to improved heart health.
We also observed improvements in peak oxygen consumption, offering further evidence of how eicosapentaenoic acid can boost cardiac performance. Importantly, we found no significant increases in dropout rates or overall mortality among those taking omega-3 supplements compared to those not taking them. This suggests that the benefits come without added risks.
Overall, our research underscores the potential of long-term, high-dose eicosapentaenoic acid supplementation as a supportive treatment option for heart failure patients, advocating for further studies to confirm these promising results and help refine treatment recommendations.
4
CAC progression in diabetic patients
We explored the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation on the progression of coronary artery calcium (CAC) in individuals with heart disease. In a randomized trial involving 242 subjects already on statin therapy, half received daily doses of both EPA and DHA, while the other half did not receive these supplements.
Our findings indicated a notable interaction between diabetes status and the effects of these supplements. Specifically, subjects with diabetes who took EPA and DHA experienced a greater increase in CAC scores compared to those with diabetes in the control group. This suggests that for individuals with diabetes, the use of these omega-3 fatty acids might not be beneficial, as they witnessed significant progression in heart disease markers over a 30-month period.
Meanwhile, we observed no significant difference in CAC progression between the treatment and control groups among those without diabetes. This raises questions about the complex role of EPA and DHA in heart health, particularly in the context of diabetes. Further research is needed to clarify whether this CAC progression indicates worsening disease or if it reflects a stabilization of existing plaques.
Our findings indicated a notable interaction between diabetes status and the effects of these supplements. Specifically, subjects with diabetes who took EPA and DHA experienced a greater increase in CAC scores compared to those with diabetes in the control group. This suggests that for individuals with diabetes, the use of these omega-3 fatty acids might not be beneficial, as they witnessed significant progression in heart disease markers over a 30-month period.
Meanwhile, we observed no significant difference in CAC progression between the treatment and control groups among those without diabetes. This raises questions about the complex role of EPA and DHA in heart health, particularly in the context of diabetes. Further research is needed to clarify whether this CAC progression indicates worsening disease or if it reflects a stabilization of existing plaques.
References
- Hamaya R, Cook NR, Sesso HD, Buring JE, Manson JE. A Bayesian Analysis of the VITAL Trial: Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation on Cardiovascular Events. Am J Clin Nutr. 2025. doi:10.1016/j.ajcnut.2025.02.028
- Aggarwal R, Bhatt DL, Steg PG, Miller M, Brinton EA, et al. Cardiovascular Outcomes With Icosapent Ethyl by Baseline Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol: A Secondary Analysis of the REDUCE-IT Randomized Trial. J Am Heart Assoc. 2025;14:e038656. doi:10.1161/JAHA.124.038656
- Tseng PT, Zeng BY, Hsu CW, Liang CS, Stubbs B, et al. The Optimal Dosage and Duration of ω-3 PUFA Supplementation in Heart Failure Management: Evidence from a Network Meta-Analysis. Adv Nutr. 2025;16:100366. doi:10.1016/j.advnut.2025.100366
- Patil T, Gregory M, Savona N, Jarmukli N, Leonard CE. Evaluating the Real-World Safety of Icosapent Ethyl Versus Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid in Nationwide US Veterans Cohort: Examining Atrial Fibrillation and Bleeding Endpoints. Clin Drug Investig. 2025;45:69. doi:10.1007/s40261-024-01417-4
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