Omega 3 Fatty Acids and health.

I spent the weekend selectively combing through the documents and studies on this site.

Here are the conclusions....

"EPA and DHA are metabolized through the same biochemical pathways as AA. EPA and AA are precursors for hormone-like agents known as eicosanoids. It is not known whether a desirable ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids exists or to what extent high intakes of omega-6 fatty acids interfere with any benefits of omega-3 fatty acid consumption.

Impact on cardiovascular disease: According to both primary and secondary prevention studies, consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, fish, and fish oil reduces all-cause mortality and various CVD outcomes such as sudden death, cardiac death, and myocardial infarction. The evidence is strongest for fish and fish oil supplements.

Impact on heart function: Animal and isolated organ/cell culture studies demonstrate that omega-3 fatty acids affect cellular functions involved in ensuring a normal heart rate and coronary blood flow.

Impact on CVD risk factors: Fish oils can lower blood triglyceride levels in a dose-dependent manner. Fish oils have a very small beneficial effect on blood pressure and possible beneficial effects on coronary artery restenosis after angioplasty and exercise capacity in patients with coronary atherosclerosis.

Impact on asthma: No conclusions could be drawn about the value of omega-3 fatty acid supplements in the prevention or treatment of asthma for adults or children other than the fact that they have an acceptable safety profile.

Impact on other conditions: Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce joint tenderness and need for corticosteroid drugs in rheumatoid arthritis. Data are insufficient to support conclusions about the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on inflammatory bowel disease, renal disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, bone density, and diabetes.

Impact on cognitive function: The quantity and strength of evidence is inadequate to conclude that omega-3 fatty acids protect cognitive function with aging or the incidence or clinical progression of dementia (including Alzheimer's disease), multiple sclerosis, and other neurological diseases.

Impact on organ transplantation: No conclusive evidence suggests specific benefits of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on any outcome in any form of organ transplantation. However, available studies are small, have methodological problems, and may not fully apply to current transplantation procedures.

Safety: Adverse events related to consumption of fish-oil or ALA supplements are generally minor and typically gastrointestinal in nature (such as diarrhea). They can usually be eliminated by reducing the dose or discontinuing the supplement.

Conclusion: The health effects of omega-3 fatty acids require further investigation. Each report provides recommendations on specific research needs and how to improve the quality of future studies."

Take your fish oils just don't believe they are a miracle drug.