Researchers at Harvard Medical School have observed that boosting omega-3 fatty acid consumption may lower the chance of developing atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder. The findings were reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
By December 2020, about 302,000 US veterans took part in the study. The group had a median age of 65, with a large majority male and predominantly White. Participants provided blood samples and answered questions about their lifestyle and eating habits. None had a prior diagnosis of atrial fibrillation at the study’s start.
Omega-3 intake was estimated from dietary questionnaires, while atrial fibrillation status was tracked through electronic medical records. Key dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids included nuts, oily fish, legumes, and various vegetable oils. The average daily omega-3 intake from food alone was around 219 milligrams.
To ensure robust results, the researchers adjusted for a range of factors such as age, sex, existing health conditions, and lifestyle behaviors that could influence outcomes. They found that increasing omega-3 intake to 750 milligrams per day was linked to an about 11 percent reduction in the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Further rises in intake did not offer additional protection against this arrhythmia.
These observations contrast with the REDUCE-IT and STRENGTH trials, where participants consumed around 4,000 milligrams of omega-3s daily. Analysts suggest that differences may arise because earlier studies did not exclude participants with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or high triglyceride levels. More research is needed to confirm these results across broader populations.
Atrial fibrillation remains the most common heart rhythm disorder. Early treatment planning, including considerations for anticoagulation to lower stroke risk, is important for patients diagnosed with this condition.
Recent data indicate that women with atrial fibrillation have a significantly higher relative risk of stroke compared with healthy women, underscoring the importance of timely evaluation and management across diverse patient groups.
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