Written based on 5 research studies on PubMed, searched on 14 Nov 2026.
The claim
Posts online say that omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) helps with dilated cardiomyopathy.
Where research stands
We found 5 published papers on omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) and dilated cardiomyopathy. They were published between 2007 and 2017. 1 of them is a study in people. None of them compared people who got it with a group that did not. 2 were studies in animals, and none was only in cells in the lab. 1 paper is a review that sums up other studies.
- 1In people
- 2In animals
- 0Only in the lab
What the studies found
We have not summed up these studies in words yet. The most important papers are listed under Sources.
Verdict
Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) has been studied in people with dilated cardiomyopathy, but not in randomised trials.
What this means for you: A study in people is not proof that it helps you. Do not stop or change your medicines because of it. Ask your doctor before you start taking it.
Sources
- Fish oil supplementation improves left ventricular function in children with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy.2007 · Congest Heart Fail · Study in people
- The Role of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Heart Failure: A Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials.2016 · Nutrients · Review
- Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids prevent murine dilated cardiomyopathy by reducing oxidative stress and cardiomyocyte apoptosis.2017 · Exp Ther Med · In animals
- Positive inotropic effect of coenzyme Q10, omega-3 fatty acids and propionyl-L-carnitine on papillary muscle force-frequency responses of BIO TO-2 cardiomyopathic Syrian hamsters.2008 · Biofactors · In animals
- Effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated Fatty acids on heart function and oxidative stress biomarkers in pediatric patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.2013 · Int Cardiovasc Res J · Other paper
