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Patient Education

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn about general health issues that may not be related to Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein

Heart-Healthy Eating: Fish and Fish Oil

Overview

Fish is a lean protein source that contains omega-3 fatty acids. This type of fat can be part of a heart-healthy diet.

Fish oil supplements are another way to get omega-3 fatty acids. Research has not proved that fish oil is helpful for everyone. That's why doctors do not agree about whether these supplements can help protect your heart.footnote 1

If you have severely high triglycerides, your doctor may recommend you take fish oil to try to prevent a problem with your pancreas called pancreatitis.

References

Citations

  1. Abdelhamid AS, et al. (2020). Omega-3 fatty acids for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 3: CD003177. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003177.pub5. Accessed September 15, 2021

Credits

Current as of: September 20, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.