Study details fish oil risks

Michael Ventresca • June 12, 2024

A recent study published in the British Medical Journal Medicine (BMJ) reported a confusing outcome. The authors found regular use of fish oil supplements by healthy individuals could increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm. However, for those who already have the condition, taking fish oil supplements decreased the risk of further development and improved their health.



It’s important to note, this study was designed to report correlation, not causation. Additionally, the study had significant limitations, as it did not control for the amount, quality, or purity of the fish oil taken. Certainly, more research is needed.


However, this topic highlights a key issue: the difference between the foundational and therapeutic use of supplements. Numerous studies have shown that fish oil supplements can provide therapeutic benefits. For example, taking a high dose of isolated omega-3s from fish oil can lower triglycerides, which I call therapeutic use—using a supplement as a natural medicine.


On the other hand, there is a separate body of research that discusses the general health benefits of eating wild-caught fatty fish, like wild Alaskan salmon, three or more times per week. This is good foundational nutrition. The important question is: which do you need?


For many, the answer is foundational. In that case, my favorite product is Wholemega by New Chapter. Wholemega is different from most fish oil supplements because it is not purified or isolated. Wholemega is cold-pressed, and just like a piece of wild salmon, naturally contains 16 different essential fatty acids, vitamin D, and even astaxanthin, the powerful antioxidant that gives salmon its color. Simply put, it is the closest thing to eating wild Alaskan salmon, something I think all health experts can agree on.


This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

By Michael Ventresca • October 28, 2026
This is a subtitle for your new post
By Michael Ventresca • October 14, 2026
Have you ever eaten a meal with garlic or onions, and almost instantly had stomach upset? Does it seem like just about everything you eat causes gas, bloating or indigestion? If this sounds like you, or if you’ve been told to try a FODMAP diet, today’s article could be the missing piece to a very frustrating puzzle. I know it was for me. Most people have heard of lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity, but far fewer are familiar with fructan sensitivity. Fructans are naturally occurring carboyhydrates found in a wide variety of foods but in especially high concentrations in everything from garlic and onions, to asparagus, wheat and even watermelon. For people who have difficulty digesting fructans, these foods can cause gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, and sometimes diarrhea. The frustrating part is that fructans are found in so many seemingly unrelated foods that it can feel like almost everything you eat is causing a problem. That was my experience for years. Over the years, I tried a number of digestive enzymes. While many of them helped, none of them were a perfect match for the garlic, onion and pasta found in some of my favorite Italian meals. Then I stumbled across a product called FODZYME. FODZYME contains three digestive enzymes, including fructan hydrolase, an enzyme specifically designed to help break down fructans. FODZYME is a tasteless powder that you sprinkle directly on your food just before eating. The enzymes mix with the food and begin breaking down the fructans as you chew, before they cause problems further down the digestive tract. For me, the difference has been night and day. I am finally able to enjoy foods I have avoided for years. It’s important to note, there is still some trial and error involved regarding dosage. Because the amount of fructans varies from meal to meal, I find I need to adjust how much I use. Sometimes, one scoop is plenty, other times, I’ll use two. But if garlic, onions, wheat, or other high-fructan foods consistently leave you feeling miserable, FODZYME may be just what you need to start enjoying the foods you love. To learn more, or to try FODZYME, please stop in today. Mike Ventresca is the owner of Vital Choice Health Store located at 9243 Sprague Road in North Royalton’s Timber Ridge Plaza. The phone number is 440-885-9505 or visit VChoice.com . This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
By Michael Ventresca • September 11, 2026
Still dealing with stiff, achy joints despite taking collagen? The answer may not be more collagen—but a different kind. 
By Michael Ventresca • August 13, 2026
If your body is ready for bed but your mind is still going, lemon balm may help you relax and make the transition to sleep easier.
By Michael Ventresca • July 10, 2026
An ancient Mediterranean fruit is finding new life as a modern wellness ally. 
By Michael Ventresca • June 22, 2026
Give your brain the nutritional support it needs to stay focused, alert and engaged.
By Michael Ventresca • May 5, 2026
Nerve-related pain doesn’t follow a clear pattern and often lingers longer than expected. 
By Michael Ventresca • April 15, 2026
Hydration depends on having the right balance of minerals inside and outside your cells, so water moves where it is needed. Without them, water can pass through the body without fully hydrating the tissues.
By Michael Ventresca • April 15, 2026
For many, allergy season doesn’t begin with sneezing. It starts with sinus pressure, headaches and post-nasal drip. By the time classic allergy symptoms show up, the immune system has often been reacting for weeks.
By Michael Ventresca • February 11, 2026
Supporting your body’s stress response can lead to more consistent energy. 
More Posts