Fish oil fails to deliver on its promise. For years, millions of Americans have swallowed capsules filled with omega 3 fatty acids from fish. They expected, based on preliminary epidemiological evidence, that fish oil would prevent heart attacks and strokes. But a new meta-analysis of 20 randomized placebo-controlled trials involving nearly 70,000 patients shows no survival advantage from fish oil. The supplements also did not prevent heart attacks or strokes better than placebo. To be included in the analysis the studies had to run for at least one year. Researchers still recommend including fish in the diet regularly.
[Journal of the American Medical Association, Sept. 12, 2012]
The People's Perspective on Medicine