Fish Oil Doesn't 'Protect Against Heart Disease', Says NIH

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), there is no evidence to support that fish oil pills are beneficial for the health.

An alleged inconsistency about fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids in the articles posted by the NIH in their website suggests that when there is no certainty when it comes to the health benefits of fish oil capsules.

Fish oil supplements are generally marketed for protection against heart disease because they containomega-3 fatty acids. However, according to one NIH article: "Omega-3s in supplement form have not been shown to protect against heart disease."

However, another earlier NIH article touted omega-3 fatty acids as potentially preventive against heart disease. According to Washington Post, these contradictions happen mostly among Americans and even in scientists by the way fish oil and omega-3s is still gaining popularity over the years despite being debunked by stronger evidence.

"Unfortunately, it's a common situation," John P.A. Ioannidis, Stanford University professor, said with regards to the withstanding nutritional research issues. "What we have found is that the original papers continue to be cited well after they have been refuted. These claims do not easily die away."

American Heart Association (AHA) still endorses fish oil but advises patients with heart disease to talk to their physicians regarding the use of the supplements. When AHA was asked for their stance on fish oil, the Washington Post was redirected to Robert Eckel, the association's former president. 

For the inconsistency of certain health issues, Eckel said they should be reviewed again.

"It would be a good time for that to be updated," Eckel said via American Bazaar Online. "Almost all studies of fish oil supplements show no benefit. I really feel this remains unproven," he added.

Paul R. Thomas, NIH's scientific consultant on Dietary Supplements, wrote that the inconsistent articles and recommendations on the NIH website were due to a third party.

"Their conclusion that fish oil omega-3s are likely effective for heart disease is generous," Thomas said via Boston Globe. "Whether fish oil can help healthy people prevent or reduce their risks of cardiovascular disease when taken over months and years is still an open scientific question."

The Marine Ingredients Organisation (IFFO) forecasted that the worldwide market for fish oil will grow from $1.1 billion to $1.7billion from 2011 to 2018. According to their report, the increase in sales will be due to the global demand for fish oil and the increase in dietary intake of omega-3.