Omega-3 supplements reduce the risk of arrhythmia and days of hospital stay after cardiac surgery
Omega-3 supplements reduce the risk of arrhythmia and hospital stay days after cardiac surgery
Treatment with omega-3 supplements in patients undergoing cardiac surgery reduces postoperative complications such as arrhythmia and shortens hospital stay by up to 2.4 days. The anti-arrhythmic action together with the anti-inflammatory effect of omega-3s therefore not only promotes patient health but also results in healthcare cost savings.
These are the findings of a study conducted by researchers at Sherbrooke University in Quebec (Canada) and published a few months ago in the journal Clinical Nutrition.
Omega-3 and heart health: effects on cardiac arrhythmia
Over the last 30 years, an impressive number of studies have highlighted the protective role of omega-3 fatty acids on cardiovascular health. Clinical and epidemiological studies have shown a lower incidence of cardiovascular diseases in populations following a diet rich in fish, the main source of omega-3s, and a reduced risk of sudden cardiac death after myocardial infarction in patients treated with EPA and DHA supplements.
The mechanisms by which omega-3s exert their protective effect on the heart seem to be multiple. They have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system due to their anti-atherosclerotic activity and the regulation of blood vessel wall elasticity. Omega-3s also reduce blood triglycerides by increasing fatty acid oxidation and decreasing their synthesis. They regulate platelet aggregation and have significant anti-arrhythmic action. Omega-3s are fundamental components of cell membranes throughout the body, regulating their structure and function.
It has been hypothesized that their anti-arrhythmic effect may depend on their ability to influence certain functions of cardiac cell membranes by altering lipid composition, as well as their anti-inflammatory properties. Arrhythmias are irregularities in the normal electrical activity of the heart and represent the most common cardiac dysfunction across all ages. Normally, the heart rate varies between 60 and 100 beats per minute with regular contractions. Arrhythmia occurs when the heart rate falls outside this range; specifically, a heart rate below 60 bpm is called bradycardia, while above 100 bpm is tachycardia. In some patients, arrhythmias can cause poor quality of life, trigger or worsen underlying heart diseases, and can be the cause of sudden cardiac death.
Several causes contribute to arrhythmias: congenital heart disease present from birth, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, hyperthyroidism, abuse of alcohol, drugs and smoking, and drug intoxications. Moreover, arrhythmia is the most common complication after cardiac surgery, requiring constant treatment and increasing ICU stay duration. Omega-3 supplementation seems to be a therapeutic option for patients undergoing open-heart surgery, though studies have reported mixed results on their effects in these patients.
Omega-3 supplements reduce hospitalization time
The research, conducted by Canadian scientists to clarify the relationship between omega-3 supplements and surgical outcomes, analyzed results from other studies on the subject and demonstrated that these supplements, in correct amounts, reduce hospital stay length thanks to their positive effect on arrhythmias. Specifically, the meta-analysis reviewed 11 studies involving a total of 1,038 patients.
They considered duration of intensive care unit stay, overall hospitalization, mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation, and occurrence of postoperative atrial fibrillation, a common form of arrhythmia that can occur immediately after cardiac surgery due to heart "stress." The results showed that omega-3 supplementation positively affected hospitalization length and postoperative atrial fibrillation, though no effect on ICU stay duration was observed.
According to Dr. Pascal Langlois, coauthor of the research, the reduced hospital stay observed in this study is associated with a trend toward lower risk of postoperative atrial fibrillation in patients receiving omega-3 supplements. Although the exact mechanism is not fully known, it is believed to be due to the anti-inflammatory and anti-arrhythmic properties of omega-3s. Langlois also noted that EPA and DHA are well-known for their positive cardiovascular effects, including anti-arrhythmic action and mortality reduction in patients with recent myocardial infarction or heart failure, along with their interesting immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties.
Omega-3 supplements help reduce healthcare costs
Although clinical and statistical data on preoperative omega-3 supplementation are mixed, this and other studies suggest this treatment could be a promising strategy to control the serious consequences of cardiac surgery. Results highlight decreased arrhythmias and shorter hospital stays, suggesting that consuming fish oil rich in omega-3 as a supplement may also reduce overall healthcare costs.
Cardiol Forte for heart wellness
To support proper heart function, 250 milligrams per day of EPA and DHA are necessary. Several supplements produced by Omegor meet this omega-3 quantity and help keep blood lipids under control. Cardiol Forte is a supplement containing 350 milligrams of EPA and DHA, as well as Monacolin K, Coenzyme Q10, polyphenols, and B vitamins. Taking one capsule daily before dinner helps manage cholesterol, oxidative stress, and protect the heart. To stay updated on the latest scientific research news on Omega-3s, subscribe to our newsletter.
Source: Pascal Langlois, Gil Hardy, William Manzanares “Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in cardiac surgery patients: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis” Clinical Nutrition.
