A nutritionist has issued a warning about the potential dangers of taking Omega-3 supplements without medical supervision, leading to an increased risk of blood clots.
Dr Carlos Andres Zapata, who shares medical tips on TikTok Cazamed, highlighted the risks in a recent video called “The risks of using omega-3 supplements chronically without proper medical advice.”, according to Spanish newspaper La Vanguardia.
Dr Carlos cautioned against the unsupervised daily use of these supplements. Despite their known benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and potentially protecting against dementia, he stressed that there could be serious side effects.
He warned: “Taking omega-3 supplements on a chronic basis without medical advice has been associated with two major risks: the first, without any doubt, is atrial fibrillation.”
This irregular heart rhythm can lead to the formation of blood clots, which can then travel to different parts of the body, potentially causing serious health problems, including strokes if they reach the brain.
The doctor has highlighted a lesser-known risk associated with omega-3 supplements, particularly for those suffering from atrial fibrillation: “The second associated risk is increased bleeding.” This can compound the risks of the condition and raise the chance of complications related to blood clots.
Those with a family history of heart issues should be especially cautious. The doctor advised against long-term unsupervised consumption of omega-3 pills, saying: “If you are taking omega-3 supplement pills on a long-term basis and your doctor hasn’t recommended it… think about whether you really need it and discuss it with your doctor.”
For individuals keen on boosting their intake of this nutrient, a nutritionist suggests incorporating Omega-3 rich foods such as salmon, mackerel, walnuts, chia seeds, and vegetable oils into one’s diet rather than immediately going for the supplement section. These options offer healthy fats that help maintain cholesterol levels.
The nutritionist finished his post with the disclaimer: “These videos and messages are not intended, nor should they be taken as a medical indication that goes beyond that of your treating physician. Take note and discuss it with your specialist so that they can put it in your clinical context.”