Fish oil can INCREASE the risk of serious liver disease, study suggests
The oil, popular for its dementia-fighting power, has been found to cause a dangerous build-up of fat in the livers of lab rats which can even lead to cancer
FISH oil can increase the risk of serious liver disease, a study suggests.
Scientists fed the popular health supplement to rats daily for two years and found a dangerous build-up of fat in their livers.
The condition, called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.
The researchers similarly tested sunflower oil on rats — and found it even worse. But virgin olive oil caused no such problems.
Millions take daily fish oil or omega-3 tablets.
They are the biggest-selling supplements in the UK, making up a fifth of the £700million market.
Studies have found they can boost brain health and combat the risk of dementia.
The NHS recommends eating at least one 5oz (140g) portion of oily fish a week.
Trout, salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel are all good sources.
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The research was led by Prof Jose Quiles Morales, of the University of Granada in Spain.
He described the results as “striking” and confirmed the rats’ unhealthy livers followed “long-term consumption of sunflower and fish oils”.
The Health Supplements Information Service said people should not be worried because the rats’ diet was “extreme”.