High-Dose Omega-3s Linked to Higher AFib Risk in High-Risk Heart Patients
This large analysis combined data from 35 clinical trials involving over 114,000 people to look at whether omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) affect the risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib), an irregular heart rhythm. Earlier smaller studies had raised concerns about this link, so researchers expanded the review to get a clearer picture.
The results showed that the increased AFib risk was specific to one group: people already at high risk for cardiovascular disease who took high doses of omega-3s (more than 1500 mg per day). In this group, the odds of developing AFib were about 43% higher than in those not taking high-dose omega-3s, translating to less than 1 additional case per 100 people.
Importantly, none of the other groups showed a significant increase in AFib risk. This included high-risk patients taking lower doses (under 1500 mg/day), and lower-risk individuals taking either low or high doses. In other words, the risk appeared to depend on both the dose and the person’s underlying heart disease risk together, not on omega-3 use alone.
What this means for you
For most people, this research suggests that typical or lower doses of omega-3 fatty acids do not appear to raise AFib risk, even among those with existing cardiovascular risk factors. The signal for increased risk was seen specifically at higher doses (above 1500 mg/day) in people who already had significant heart disease risk, which is a useful consideration to discuss with a healthcare provider when choosing a dose, especially for those with cardiovascular concerns.
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Circulation. Arrhythmia and electrophysiology · 2026-07-28 · DOI: 10.1161/CIRCEP.125.014785
Read the original source ↗This summary is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always talk to your healthcare provider before making changes to your supplement routine.