Doubts cast on health benefits of oily fish

Sydney Morning Herald, Australia
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Claims oily fish is good for people's health are not backed by strong evidence, experts say.
Researchers studied the effects of omega 3 fats on death rates, heart disease and cancer and found no evidence of a "clear benefit" on health.In a study published into yesterday's British Medical Journal, scientists were keen to point out the importance of omega 3 fats should not be ruled out.
But they said the evidence about potential benefits should be regularly reviewed.Omega 3 fats, found in oily fish such as mackerel and fresh tuna, supplements and some plant oils, have been widely regarded as beneficial for health, with experts recommending people increase consumption of foods rich in omega 3.The researchers analysed 89 studies to assess the effects of omega 3 fats on different outcomes for health.Pooling the results showed no strong evidence that omega 3 had an effect on total deaths, heart attacks, heart disease, cancer or strokes.
Mar 25, 2006