Too much omega-3 ‘could have negative health consequences’

North American scientists have published new research which suggests that the nutrient known as omega-3 could be harmful to people if taken in excess quantities.

A review of existing literature spearheaded by Oregon State University, the University of British Columbia Okanagan and Michigan State University has revealed that an excess of omega-3 fatty acid consumption can sometimes lead to a dysfunctional immune response to a viral or bacterial infection, or an increased risk of colitis.

Many people take omega-3 supplements due to their role in helping to improve cardiovascular health, but the existence of a variety of products that have been artificially enriched with the fatty acid means that many may now be at risk of consuming too much.

Currently, there are no evidence-based standards for omega-3 intake and therefore no way to determine who might be at risk from this issue.

Norman Hord, associate professor at OSU's College of Public Health and Human Sciences, said: "Until we establish valid biomarkers of omega-3 exposure, making good evidence-based dietary recommendations across potential dietary exposure ranges will not be possible."