January 16, 2024, 10:07 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Omega-3 fatty acids promote heart health, contribute to brain development, and improve vision. They also have a positive effect on cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Therefore, it seems hardly objectionable to supplement these fatty acids–or does it? A misconception, as Omega-3 fatty acids should not be taken for heart conditions without consulting a doctor, as Dr. Matthias Riedl confirms.
Overview
Daily Amount of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
It is difficult to define an exact dosage recommendation, as over-the-counter Omega-3 supplements often have varying compositions of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). “Omega-3 fatty acids should only be given in low doses blindly. I always recommend determining the Omega-3 index in the blood beforehand. It reflects the body’s supply. If it is normal, I would be cautious with supplementation,” explains Dr. Matthias Riedl, internist, nutritionist, and diabetologist, as well as medical director of Medicum Hamburg, to FITBOOK.
In general, you can meet your needs by eating fatty sea fish like mackerel, herring, sardines, or salmon twice a week. Omega-3 fatty acids are also found in flaxseed, walnut, canola, or soybean oil. However, if you do not consume this amount through food, for example, if you are vegetarian or do not like fish, you can supplement Omega-3 fatty acids.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women are particularly advised to take additional Omega-3 fatty acids, as this positively affects the child’s brain development. Children and adolescents who are growing should also be adequately supplied. Here, it is important to discuss the intake of the supplement with a doctor.
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Conditions to Avoid Omega-3 Supplementation
People with heart conditions, in particular, should discuss the additional intake of Omega-3 fatty acids with their doctor beforehand. The reason: The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment reported in a study that in such pre-existing conditions, the intake increases the risk of atrial fibrillation.1 This is a heart rhythm disorder that can promote strokes. The studies showed that the risk of such health consequences was highest in those who supplemented 4 grams of Omega-3 daily.
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“Overdosing can lead to increased bleeding tendency and, worse still–in those with pre-existing heart conditions–to heart rhythm disorders. This warning should be taken very seriously,” says Dr. Riedl. The consumer center also reports that an overdose can prolong blood clotting time and impair the immune system.
*With material from dpa