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Atrial fibrillation—commonly known as AFib—is the most common heart rhythm disorder in the world. It affects millions and significantly increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications. Yet despite its widespread impact, AFib remains misunderstood. Recent headlines have only added to the confusion—particularly when it comes to omega-3 supplements.

In this article, we’ll unpack the truth about AFib, separate myth from fact, clarify why not all omega-3s are created equal, and share how one of my clients who experienced AFib found comfort and relief through a unique combination of polyphenols and omega-3 fatty acids.

What Is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)?

AFib is an irregular and often rapid heartbeat that can lead to blood clots in the heart. Instead of beating effectively, the upper chambers of the heart (atria) quiver, leading to poor blood flow and potential complications.

Common Symptoms:

• • Heart palpitations
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Chest discomfort

AFib by the Numbers:

• • AFib affects over 6 million Americans, and this number is expected to rise to 12.1 million by 2030.
  • It is associated with a 5x higher risk of stroke and a 2x increased risk of death.
  • AFib contributes to about 158,000 deaths annually in the U.S. alone.
    (Source: CDC, American Heart Association)

Common Misconceptions About AFib

Myth #1: Only the elderly get AFib

While the risk increases with age, AFib can occur in younger adults, especially in those with high blood pressure, sleep apnea, metabolic syndrome, or underlying inflammation.

Myth #2: All omega-3 supplements increase AFib risk

This has been one of the most misleading headlines of recent years—and needs clarification.

The Truth About Omega-3s and AFib Risk

One of my clients, Lorna J., is a powerful example of how understanding the science can change everything. When Lorna became my client, she shared that she had been struggling with AFib and was hoping to reduce the frequency of episodes. I recommended that we begin by testing her omega-6 to omega-3 ratio and suggested that BalanceOil+ could be a helpful part of her wellness plan. I explained that BalanceOil+ is a unique combination of omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenols—both known for their ability to reduce inflammation.

This was the first time Lorna became aware that AFib is, in fact, an inflammatory condition. To her credit, she trusted the process. She got her test done and began taking BalanceOil+. But just one week later during a coaching session, she told me she was planning to stop taking it. She had come across an article claiming that omega-3s could increase the risk of AFib.

I asked her to send me the article, and when I reviewed it, I showed her that the study was referring to very high doses of synthetic omega-3s—specifically in ethyl ester or pharmaceutical forms. That moment became a turning point for Lorna. She realized that not all omega-3s are created equal, and that BalanceOil+—being food-based and in the natural triglyceride form—was different. She stayed on the program, and her experience became a powerful reminder that clarity can overcome fear when it’s rooted in evidence and guidance.

Several studies have linked high doses of synthetic omega-3s—particularly isolated eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in ethyl ester or pharmaceutical forms—to a small increase in the risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib). However, these findings do not apply to food-based, balanced omega-3 sources like BalanceOil+.

But what exactly are omega-3s, and why do they matter?
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that our bodies cannot make on their own—we must get them from food or supplementation. These fats play a vital role in brain function, heart health, immune regulation, hormone balance, and reducing chronic inflammation. EPA and DHA are two of the most important types of omega-3s, and they’re naturally found in fatty fish like salmon, anchovies, and sardines.

Omega-3s can come in different forms. The natural triglyceride form—like that found in whole foods and BalanceOil+—is the form your body recognizes and absorbs most easily. In contrast, synthetic forms such as ethyl esters are created through industrial processing and are often used in pharmaceutical-grade supplements. These synthetic versions may not be absorbed or utilized as efficiently by the body and have been linked to adverse outcomes when consumed in high doses.

So, now that you understand the difference between natural triglyceride forms and synthetic versions like ethyl esters, it’s important to keep that in mind when reading headlines such as, “Omega-3 Supplements Could Elevate Risk of Atrial Fibrillation.” Don’t be quick to assume this warning applies to all omega-3s. The studies linking omega-3s to an increased risk of AFib are specifically referring to synthetic, high-dose isolates—not the natural triglyceride form found in food-based products like BalanceOil+.

BalanceOil+: Designed for Balance, Not Overload

• • The AFib studies showing increased risk involved daily intakes of 2 to 4 grams or more of isolated EPA/DHA, especially in synthetic or pharmaceutical forms.
  • BalanceOil+ delivers approximately 0.8 to 1.5 grams of omega-3s per day (depending on body weight and dosing).
  • It is in the natural triglyceride form, not a synthetic isolate.
  • It is enhanced with polyphenols, which protect omega-3s from oxidation and improve their delivery to your cells.

This makes BalanceOil+ a uniquely balanced, food-based supplement that supports heart and cellular health without the risks associated with high-dose, synthetic omega-3 products.

Reducing Inflammation: A Key to AFib Prevention and Management

AFib isn’t just an electrical problem—it’s increasingly understood as an inflammatory condition. Chronic inflammation contributes to structural and electrical changes in the heart, including:

• • Atrial remodeling
  • Fibrosis (scarring)
  • Oxidative stress

All of these changes can increase the likelihood of AFib developing or recurring.

In fact, people with AFib often show elevated levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Studies have found that reducing inflammation can:

• • Lower the risk of developing AFib
  • Reduce the frequency and severity of AFib episodes
  • Improve outcomes from medications or ablation procedures
  • Decrease the risk of stroke and heart failure

How to reduce inflammation?

• • Regular physical activity
  • Omega-3 and polyphenol intake
  • A diet low in processed foods and refined seed oils
  • Stress management and Adequate sleep

This is where BalanceOil+ plays an important role. With its combination of marine omega-3s and polyphenols from cold-pressed olives, BalanceOil+ actively works to restore omega-6 to omega-3 balance, lower inflammation markers, and support heart rhythm stability.

Final Thoughts

AFib is a serious condition that requires awareness and proactive management. Reducing inflammation, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and choosing the right type of omega-3s can make a real difference.

When it comes to prevention and support, nutrition plays a key role. And in the case of omega-3s, the right type and dosage matter.

If you’re looking for heart-smart solutions, BalanceOil+ is a safe, effective option for restoring cellular balance—not disrupting it. And you can quickly and easily find out what your balance of omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is by getting the at-home BalanceTest. After four months of taking BalanceOil+, you get a free BalanceTest so that you can confirm that it’s working for you, and compare your “before” and “after” results.

To learn more about the test and BalanceOil+, contact the person who shared this article with you, email me at robert@dietfreelife.com, or schedule a free consultation.

References

1. 1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Atrial Fibrillation Fact Sheet.
   2. Albert, C.M., et al. (2021). Effect of Marine Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation on Arrhythmias and AFib Risk: A Meta-analysis. JAMA.
   3. European Society of Cardiology. (2022). Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Atrial Fibrillation: What the Evidence Shows.
   4. Zinzino. (2024). BalanceOil+ Product Documentation and Clinical Research.
   5. Chung, M. K., et al. (2020). Inflammation and Atrial Fibrillation: Mechanisms and Management. Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
   6. Korantzopoulos, P., et al. (2008). The role of inflammation in the pathogenesis and perpetuation of atrial fibrillation. Heart Rhythm.

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Robert Ferguson is a California- and Florida-based single father of two daughters, nutritionist, researcher, best-selling author, speaker, podcast and television host, health advisor, NAACP Image Award Nominee, creator of the Diet Free Life methodology, and Chief Nutrition Officer for iCoura Health. He also serves on the Presidential Task Force on Obesity for the National Medical Association and the Health and Product Advisory Board for Zinzino, Inc.

You can reach Robert via email at robert@dietfreelife.com.

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