Are Omega-3s and Fish Overrated? Is Fish Really that Good for Your Health?
Fish Benefits Questioned
In a recent analysis written in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, Dr. David Jenkins argues that doctors and health professionals have been premature in recommending fish for health benefits. In particular, Dr. Jenkins finds that several studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids provides no particular health benefits, while other studies show that only certain populations benefit from the oils found in fatty fish. Unfortunately, these studies have received little attention or media scrutiny, so the fish craze continues.
Dr. Jenkins also warns that the current levels of fish consumption are unsustainable. According to the article, the media hype about fish and omega-3 fatty acids has caused fish consumption to skyrocket. As a result, fish populations are declining dramatically and local fisheries are coping with underpopulation. This could potentially have severe impacts on food supplies, especially in the developing world and communities that rely on fishing.
The Other Side of the Story
While Dr. Jenkins provides a compelling case for more research into the health benefits of omega-3s, other reviews suggest that the fish craze is justified. A review published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings provides an overview of three large trials that were conducted on fish oil supplements. These studies, which included over 32,000 participants, showed that fish oil reduced the risk of “cardiovascular events” (such as heart attacks) up to 45 percent. In fact, the author of the review, Dr. James O’Keefe, finds that the research is compelling enough to recommend regular consumption of fish oil. Dr. O’Keefe recommends that patients at risk for heart disease take up to 1 gram of fish oil per day.
So what’s the bottom line on fish and omega-3s? Like most aspects of nutrition, more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions. For now, most health professionals feel comfortable recommending fish oil supplements, or regular fatty fish consumption, for patients with cardiovascular disease. As with all supplements, you should only take a fish oil capsule under the advice and direction of your physician.