

In 2019, for example, scientists who looked at the data of 4,202 people in Holland found that those who consumed fresh fruits and vegetables and 2 weekly servings of fish were less likely to develop age-related macular degeneration compared with those who did not. In some cases, eating a healthful diet may be more beneficial than taking supplements, according to some experts.

Optometrists often recommend taking omega-3 supplements to support eye health, even though scientific evidence does not always support their use for this purpose. In a 2012 study, mice that received omega-3 supplements for 6 months appeared to have better retinal function and a lower risk of age-related vision loss than mice that did not receive the supplements. Some evidence suggests that getting an adequate intake of omega-3 may help protect eye health. However, in 2012, a review of 20 studies involving almost 70,000 people found “no compelling evidence” linking fish oil supplements to a lower risk of heart attack, stroke, or early death. They say that this may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The AHA recommend eating fish, and especially oily fish, at least twice per week. In 2012, researchers noted that fish oil, due to its anti-inflammatory properties, appeared to help stabilize atherosclerotic lesions. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils may help prevent heart disease and stroke, according to the AHA.Ī 2013 study found that people who took fish oil supplements for longer than 1 month had better cardiovascular function during mentally stressful tests.

More investigations are necessary to confirm these benefits. However, their results are not conclusive, according to one 2019 review. Some studies have suggested that omega-3 supplementation may help prevent cognitive decline, especially in older adults.

Some research has suggested that eating a diet rich in omega-3 may help prevent prostate cancer. However, at least one study has concluded that omega-3 supplements do not reduce disease activity with MS. Some people with multiple sclerosis (MS) take omega-3 because it may have protective effects on the brain and the nervous system. In fact, experts have warned against using supplements in an attempt to prevent infection with the virus.įor more information on the COVID-19 outbreak and advice on prevention and treatment, see our live updates page and visit our coronavirus hub. However, this investigation has not yet undergone peer review, and the findings are far from conclusive. In 2020, survey data suggested that females who take probiotics, vitamin D, fish oil supplements, or a combination of these may have a slightly lower risk of developing COVID-19. The following sections outline some of these conditions and some other health benefits that omega-3 may provide. However, it is not always clear whether or not taking additional omega-3 can offer benefits. Scientists have linked omega-3 to a number of health conditions.
