A new study has found that fish oil supplementation was associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease and stroke in healthy people. However, people with existing CVD experienced protective effects against further progression of their disease. This was an observational study. It does not prove causation.

Studies on the benefits of fish oil, and fish oil supplements, haven’t been as conclusive when it comes to actually preventing heart disease for people who aren’t at higher risk. In the latest, published in BMJ,

Fish oil remains a rich source of omega 3 fatty acids, which are thought to help both heart and brain health. As such, health experts recommend that people eat oily fish like salmon at least once a week or use fish oil supplements, researchers said in background notes.