A leading nutrition expert has cautioned that popping omega-3 tablets won't give you the same benefits as tucking into a proper fish dinner, suggesting thousands of Britons could be wasting their money.
Dr Federica Amati, who serves as chief nutrition scientist at Zoe Health, shared her concerns during an appearance on Davina McCall's Begin Again podcast earlier this year.
The specialist pointed out a troubling pattern she's noticed: people find it simpler to take a tablet than to actually improve their eating habits.
It's a warning that hits home for many Britons, as recent figures show almost half of UK adults regularly take supplements, believing they're doing something positive for their health.
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Almost half of UK adults regularly take supplements
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Dr Amati expressed her concerns about this mindset, explaining that people often take supplements and then believe they've ticked the health box - "okay, I've done my bit," as she put it.
The problem is, they then continue with damaging behaviours, like sticking to poor eating patterns, drinking too much alcohol, not getting enough sleep, and spending too much time sitting around.
In reality, that little tablet is barely going to make any difference to their overall health, the nutrition expert warned.
It's a stark reminder that there's no magic pill that can undo the effects of an unhealthy lifestyle - no matter how convenient that would be.
The nutrition expert backs up her warning with solid evidence, pointing to a comprehensive long-term clinical study that tested whether omega-3 supplements actually deliver on their promises.
The results were disappointing for supplement fans. The trial examined whether these tablets could lower the chances of developing cancer, heart disease, or dying prematurely - all the benefits we often hear about.
"It doesn't do it," Dr Amati stated bluntly. "It doesn't do it in the same way that eating fish does."
It turns out that getting your omega-3s from actual fish provides genuine health benefits that supplements simply can't match, despite what the marketing might suggest.
These fatty acids offer brilliant health benefits - they're great for your heart, help with dry skin and eyes, and reduce inflammation throughout your body.
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Health professionals recommend eating fish at least twice a week
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The NHS particularly stresses their importance for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as omega-3s support a baby's developing nervous system.
Health professionals recommend eating fish at least twice a week, making sure one serving is oily fish like salmon or mackerel.
Those who don't fancy fish have got plenty of other options. Flaxseed and chia seeds are packed with omega-3s, as are walnuts and soybeans. Even spinach contains these valuable nutrients.
The key message remains clear - real food beats pills every time when it comes to getting your omega-3s.
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