Medical Edge Newspaper Column

The Latest on Omega-3 Fatty Acids

March 18, 2007
Readers:
Although dozens of studies have given omega-3 fatty acids high marks in protecting health, recent study reviews have questioned their effectiveness in some areas.

A review of 89 studies published last spring concluded that omega-3 fats don't reduce the risk of death, cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke, or cancer. Another major study review, published last summer, raised similar questions but concluded that omega-3 reduces the overall risk of death as well as the risk of cardiac and sudden death and stroke.

So what now? Although the benefits of omega-3 may not be a broad as once thought -- or require additional study -- dietary recommendations about omega-3 haven't changed. For adults in good health, the American Heart Association recommends eating fish rich in omega-3 fats at least twice a week.