Dispelling the myths about omega-3 fatty acids

Richard Sadovsky, Nancy Collins, Ann P. Tighe, Richard S. Safeer, Charlene M. Morris, Stephen A. Brunton

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Although there is an enormous amount of information available on omega-3 fatty acids, it is sometimes misleading, contradictory, and unsupported by scientific fact. Consumers and medical professionals may be confused regarding the potential value of omega-3 fatty acid supplements, despite having either read or heard about fish oil consumption and/or omega-3 fatty acid benefits and risks. The availability of a prescription formulation of omega-3-acid ethyl esters (P-OM3) has provided important new information that helps to dispel the myths and alleviate concerns surrounding the use of omega-3 fatty acids in clinical practice. The safety and efficacy of P-OM3, but not dietary-supplement omega-3 fatty acids, are documented in placebo-controlled trials. In general, studies using Food and Drug Administration-approved dosages of P-OM3 have not substantiated various myths surrounding the negative effects of omega-3 fatty acids. Thus, there are now evidence-based clinical guidelines for the use of omega-3 fatty acids in clinical practice.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)92-100
Number of pages9
JournalPostgraduate medicine
Volume120
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2008
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Dietary fats
  • Evidence-based medicine
  • Fatty acids
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • P-OM3

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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