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Re-activateI've heard that omega-3 fatty acids have blood-thinning properties. Can they replace daily aspirin? —D.W., Detroit
No. While omega-3s thin the blood somewhat, the effect pales in comparison to aspirin's potent anticlotting power. And the benefits associated with omega-3s, including a reduced risk of a second heart attack, probably stem from other effects they have on the heart, such as preventing arrhythmias.
So if you take daily aspirin, make omega-3s an addition to that regimen, not a substitute. People with heart disease should aim for 1 gram a day from fish-oil supplements. Healthy people need only about 2 grams a week, which they can get from two servings of fatty fish.
For more on taking aspirin to reduce heart attacks, see our Heart Health guide.
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