Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- Some of you may be wondering what to do with you fish oil pills after new research came out saying they may not be helping your heart.
Fish oil is one of the most popular supplements in the country. Last year, Americans spent $1-billion on Omega 3 supplements. But new, surprising, research finds fish oil pills may not have the health benefits we once thought.
“It’s similar evidence that has been coming out on may supplements. We know taking supplements is not a guarantee to good health,” said Registered Dietitian Linda Quinn.
In fact, research says fish oil pills don’t appear to reduce your risk for heart disease. Omega 3’s are great for heart health when they occur naturally in foods. People who eat fish twice a week are less likely to have heart disease and less likely to die from it.
Dietitians say the bottom line is: think food, not pills.
“We know that Omega 3’s are good for our health, but getting them in whole foods is the best place. It’s better absorbed by the human body and there is something about a whole food that works together,” said Quinn.
The best way to get Omega 3’s is from eating foods such as fish, walnuts and flax seed.
