Low-dose omega-3 supplementation does not raise atrial fibrillation risk: largest metaanalys to date

Researchers at the Fatty Acid Research Institute pooled 35 randomized controlled trials totaling 114,592 participants, more than four times the number of trials in any prior metaanalys on this question. The analysis included 15 trials with previously unpublished atrial fibrillation data. At doses below 1,500 mg/day of EPA and DHA combined, omega-3 supplementation showed no association with increased atrial fibrillation risk, including in individuals with elevated cardiovascular risk. A modest AF signal appeared only at prescription-strength doses above 1,500 mg/day, with an absolute risk increase of 0.8 percent. This was concentrated in patients with established cardiovascular disease receiving pharmacological-grade formulations (typically 2 to 4 grams/day). The authors note that cardiovascular benefits of high-dose EPA demonstrated in prior trials substantially outweigh this small AF risk. For consumers taking nutritional supplements at typical doses (500 to 1,500 mg/day), the findings are reassuring. The study was commissioned by GOED (Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s) but the funder had no input into design, analysis, or interpretation.

Nutritional doses of omega-3 supplements were not associated with a meaningful increase in atrial fibrillation risk.