Omega-3 Supplements and Heart Health

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  • AdventHealth
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Health and Wellness
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Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for building cell membranes, regulating inflammation and supporting heart health. Although they play a vital role in your health, your body doesn’t naturally produce them. Instead, you get them from the foods you eat or from supplements.

Keep reading to learn more about the effects of omega-3 supplements on heart health, including what the evidence shows, risk factors and answers to commonly asked questions.

The Evidence Behind Omega-3 Supplements

According to the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements, omega-3 supplements can lower triglyceride levels and may reduce the risk of certain cardiovascular conditions, especially among people who don’t get them from food. However, evidence from the NIH also shows that the protective effects of omega-3 supplements are stronger in people with existing coronary heart disease than in healthy adults. While those with existing cardiovascular conditions would benefit the most from taking omega-3 supplements, most people who take them are healthy adults looking to prevent a diagnosis.

Omega-3 Supplement Risk Factors and Side Effects

Although you can purchase over-the-counter omega-3 supplements at your local grocery store, they can carry serious risks when taken in high doses. Just because you don’t need a prescription for this supplement doesn’t mean it’s safe to take as much as you want. High doses can increase your risk of developing atrial fibrillation and may even cause bleeding.

It’s also wise to consider potential interactions with other medications. Omega-3 supplements may interact with medications that affect blood clotting and can prolong the time it takes for bleeding to stop. If you’re taking blood thinners or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, talk with your doctor before taking omega-3 supplements. Consider asking whether omega-3 supplements will interact with anything you’re currently taking, how they’re supposed to support your overall health and what changes to watch for.

Common side effects of omega-3 supplements include:

  • Acid reflux
  • Gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea
  • Headaches
  • Nausea and vomiting

Omega-3 supplements are often marketed to people with preexisting heart conditions who are taking other medications, such as blood thinners. However, research shows that these people are at the highest risk of developing other serious concerns. It’s best to always talk to your doctor before starting a new supplement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Heart Supplements

Does omega-3 prevent heart disease?

According to the National Institute of Health, there is currently no evidence that omega-3 supplements can prevent heart disease. However, they have been shown to lower triglycerides and may reduce your risk of other conditions.

Is it safe to take omega-3 supplements with blood thinners?

Determining whether it’s safe to take omega-3 supplements with blood thinners is a decision for your healthcare provider. Omega-3s may interact with medications that affect blood clotting, so it’s best to check with your doctor before taking them.

Are higher doses of omega-3 better?

No, higher doses of omega-3 aren’t better. In fact, they come with elevated risks, including the onset of atrial fibrillation and increased bleeding.

Should I take omega-3 supplements if my heart is healthy?

There’s currently limited evidence that healthy adults taking omega-3 supplements gain additional benefits. Research shows that people with preexisting heart conditions benefit more from taking omega-3 supplements. But it’s best to talk with your doctor to find out if these supplements are right for you.

Putting Our Hearts Into Caring for Yours

Whether you’re looking to prevent heart disease or need a personalized treatment plan, our cardiologists are here to help. Learn more about our heart and vascular care services and how we can keep your heart beating strong.

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