A new study has found eating fish may not keep your heart as healthy as previously thought.

Researchers in Europe followed residents over 55 living in the Netherlands for nearly 20 years. They found no difference in the risk of developing heart failure between those who did and did not consume fish.

“Scientists and health authorities are increasingly persuaded that the intake of fish – even in small amounts – will protect against the risk of fatal myocardial infarction,” said study investigator Dr. Marianne Geleinjse from Wageningen University in the Netherlands. “However, there is no strong evidence that eating fish will protect against heart failure,” she said.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S.
Studies have shown lowering cholesterol and blood pressure are common ways to prevent heart problems.

The Mayo Clinic says believed to help improve heart health include blond psyllium, flaxseed, coenzyme Q-10 and omega-3 fatty acids.