Salt Lake City, UT —New results from a meta-analysis study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology suggest consuming EPA and DHA omega-3s could reduce the risk of cardiac deaths.

The meta-analysis, which combined data from 14 randomized, controlled trials of 71,899 people, reviewed studies that were longer than 6 months and compared cardiac deaths of those taking dietary supplements of omega-3 against control groups. The study did not review a relation between consumption of EPA and DHA from fish with cardiac deaths due to non existing trials.

The results of the meta-analysis showed a 17% reduction in risk of cardiac deaths in those who had elevated LDL cholesterol or triglycerides.

“It’s important to note that these results align with the conclusions in the recent Science Advisory from the American Heart Association, which states that EPA and DHA omega-3 treatment ‘is reasonable’ for secondary prevention of coronary heart disease and sudden cardiac death,” said Dr. Kevin Maki, lead study author and Chief Scientist for Midwest Biomedical Research’s Center for Metabolic and Cardiovascular Health. “One notable feature of EPA and DHA omega-3 supplementation is the low risk associated with its use. Because of the low risk for adverse effects, even a modest benefit is clinically meaningful.”

Currently the American Heart Association recommends, for American consuming seafood and or fatty fish each week, two servings (supplies 250-500 mg) of EPA and DHA per day. For those with a diagnosed heart disease, the AHA also recommends 1 gram of EPA and DHA per day.

“This study is important because it explored the effects of omega-3s on a specific outcome of coronary heart disease,” said Dr. Harry B. Rice, VP of Regulatory and Scientific Affairs the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s (GOED), a trade association representing approximately 200 companies worldwide active in the EPA and DHA omega-3 industry. GOED funded the study.

“A number of studies in recent years have questioned omega-3 benefits in cardiovascular diseases. In order to understand the role omega-3s play in the cardiovascular system, however, research has to focus on a specific disease rather than all cardiovascular outcomes together," Rice added. "This is an important nuance that this meta-analysis helps clarify.”

Published on WholeFoods Magazine Online, 8/23/17