PCRM: No Benefit of Omega-3s

A new British Medical Journal study finds no evidence of health benefit from taking omega-3 supplements or eating oily fish. Researchers from the School of Medicine at the University of East Anglia and eight other institutions analyzed 48 randomized controlled trials and 41 cohort studies for the effects of long- and short-chain omega 3 fats on mortality, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and bleeding events. Results showed weak and inconsistent results with no statistically significant reductions in total mortality, cardiovascular events, or cancer among participants taking additional omega 3 fats.

Hooper L, Thompson RL, Harrison RA, et al. Risks and benefits of omega 3 fats for mortality, cardiovascular disease, and cancer: systemic review. BMJ. 2006. Available at www.bjm.com, accessed March 24, 2006.


Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine,
5100 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 400,
Washington, DC 20016

Source: Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine,
Author: PCRM

Link: Doubts cast on oily fish benefits
Link: Heart experts urged consumers on Friday to continue eating oily fish and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids despite research showing they may have no clear health benefits.


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