It’s common for patients at risk for cardiovascular disease to take a low dose of aspirin. Aspirin’s antiplatelet effects have been shown to help reduce cardiovascular events in many patient populations.
Unfortunately, not all patients respond to aspirin therapy, and are known to be “aspirin resistant.” In fact, approximately 1-45% of patients can be resistant to the antiplatelet effects of aspirin.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology compared the effects of omega-3 fatty acids to increasing the dose of aspirin. The goal was determine what effect either action would have on patients known to be aspirin resistant.
The study showed that omega-3 fatty acids from the fish oil increased the response to aspirin in those who are aspirin resistant just as effectively as increasing the dose of aspirin. In addition, some negative side effects of higher doses of aspirin were avoided.
Dr. Chad’s reaction:
This is another, very important reason to include a high-quality fish oil in your diet, especially if you are at risk for cardiovascular disease and are aspirin resistant. It’s also noteworthy if you want to avoid the negative side effects of long-term aspirin therapy, such as gastrointestinal side effects and bleeding.
It’s important to note that the omega-3 fatty acids in the study were not associated with gastrointestinal bleeding. They also have many other benefits for the cardiovascular system, including anti-inflammatory, and lipid/cholesterol benefits.
The study indicates omega-3 fatty acids provide a decreased risk of cardiovascular events while supplying a safer alternative to aspirin therapy.
The naturopathic doctor recommends:
Orthomega – 2 gelcaps 2x/day with meals, or EPA-DHA Balanced Liquid – 1 tsp 2x/day with meals.