Q: I just started reading your book about high doses of fish oil and have some questions regarding my father’s health. He is 79 years old, 5'7" and weighs 175 pounds (slightly overweight). His medications include: Coumadin (blood thinner), high blood pressure medicine, and Lasix (water diuretic for leaky heart valve). He only has one kidney currently at about 16 percent functionability. His cardiologist says valve surgery is too risky, his internist says it is just best to medicate with Lasix until his kidney fails and then medicate with pain medicine to keep him comfortable until death. (His internist also said he is not a candidate for dialysis.) Is there any chance that high doses of fish oil could help him get his body to a point where heart surgery (for valve repair) may be more viable?
A: Following the Zone Diet and supplementing with a minimum of 5 grams ultra-refined fish oil may provide the foundation for improving your father's health. Controlling insulin and supplementing with fish oil should help improve immune and kidney function. Always work with your physician when changing one's diet and beginning high-dose omega-3 supplementation.