Within the plan document, omega 3s received favorable mention three different times, according to the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3 (GOED), Salt Lake City, UT.
In 2002, fish oils/omega 3 fatty acids ranked eighth, while in 2007 they ranked first. This change correlates with a growing body of evidence suggesting benefit of these products in preventing complications of cardiovascular disease and other significant health problems.
Two independent lines of evidence—survey data from the NHIS regarding use of dietary supplements and industry sales data—suggest that results of CAM research influence consumers’ decisions regarding CAM use. Both show changes over time that track with research findings. Specifically, the publication of “negative” results from clinical trials preceded declines in both the frequency of use and the sales of several non-vitamin/non-mineral dietary supplements. Similarly, publication of evidence pointing toward the potential value of omega 3 fatty acids/fish oil preceded increased use and sales.
GOED noted that NCCAM is holding a two-day workshop next week titled “Clarifying Directions and Approaches to Mechanistic and Translational Research on Omega-3 Fatty Acids and their Metabolites.”