Summary
A study at the University of Chile explored whether omega-3 fatty acids and specific vitamins can strengthen the antioxidant system and, in this way, reduce the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation. The antioxidant system is a group of enzymes and antioxidant molecules that control the formation of free radicals and reactive oxygen compounds and repair already damaged tissue. Atrial fibrillation is a very common cardiac arrhythmia that often occurs after bypass or heart-valve surgery. In the study, 103 subjects scheduled for bypass surgery took 2 g of omega-3 fatty acids, 1 g of vitamin C, and 400 IU of vitamin E supplements daily. The well-tolerated therapy had a beneficial effect on postoperative atrial fibrillation, increased antioxidant potential, and reduced oxidative stress and inflammation. For more information, see the study.
References
Rodrigo et al.