Oily fish and fish oil supplements in the prevention of coronary heart disease

Dietary advice for the reduction of coronary heart disease events emphasizes the importance of a low-fat diet and advice on the consumption of oily fish may also be given. This report reviews the evidence linking fish consumption with coronary risk. On the basis of available evidence, a target of two to three portions of oily fish per week (200-400 g, 7-14 oz) is considered reasonable, particularly for secondary prevention. For those who cannot achieve the suggested dietary intake of oily fish, the partial or complete substitution of fish oil supplements may be appropriate. A range of suitable types of fish oil supplements is given, but an awareness of the potential adverse effects of fish oil supplementation is considered important. Further studies are needed to define the role of fish intake in coronary heart disease.