Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Atrial Fibrillation: Current Evidence and Expert Opinion
Authors' conclusion
Because of the favorable effects of EPA+DHA on CVD (and other health) outcomes, our view is that, for the general population, intakes of EPA+DHA afford several health benefits and do not meaningfully increase the risk for AF. For patients with prevalent CVD or at high risk for CVD, the risk-benefit ratio for EPA+DHA intake is favorable, especially for intakes up to 1500 mg/day, but also at higher doses where there may be increased risk for AF.
Study context
- Population
- General adult population consuming omega-3 fatty acids (FA) from oily fish or supplements, and individuals at high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD)
- Comparison
- Consumption of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)+docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and risk for atrial fibrillation (AF)
- Outcome
- Risk for AF, general adult population, EPA+DHA up to 1500 mg/day (and possibly 2400 mg/day) from food or dietary supplements
Methodological detailsreview, expert opinion
- Review
- Expert opinion
Pooled result
As reported in the abstract
- Does not appear to significantly increase risk for AF
Further pooled results
Risk for AF (and other CVD outcomes), general population, chronic intakes in this range
- Preponderance of the evidence suggests association with lower risk for AF
Risk for AF, individuals at high risk for CVD, EPA+DHA doses of >1500 mg/day
- Increase in absolute risk for AF
- <1%
- Increase in relative risk
- ∼43%
- Might increase
Original publication
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Atrial Fibrillation: Current Evidence and Expert Opinion. Eur J Prev Cardiol. Published 31 October 2026. doi:10.
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