Fish oil, omega-3: A class of fatty acids found in fish oils, can be obtained from eating fish or by taking supplements. Fish oil is made from the tissue of oily fish and contains important Omega-3 fatty acids, most notably eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and decosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Fish that are especially rich in the beneficial oils known as omega-3 fatty acids include mackerel, tuna, salmon, sturgeon, mullet, bluefish, anchovy, sardines, herring, trout, and menhaden. They provide about 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids in about 3.5 ounces of fish.
Omega-3 fatty acids are believed to have health benefits ranging from reducing the risk of heart attack and coronary heart disease to combating depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. It acts to lower blood pressure, and the levels of cholesterol and LDL (low-density lipoproteins) in the blood. (LDL cholesterol is the "bad" cholesterol.).
Eating fish high in omega-3 has also been reported to protect against late age-related macular degeneration, a common eye disease. The maximum benefit appears to be from eating fish once a week.
What other benefits can fish oil high in omega-3 do for you?
Reduce inflammation throughout your body
Keep your blood from clotting excessively
Maintain the fluidity of your cell membranes
Lower the amount of lipids (fats such as cholesterol and triglycerides) circulating in the bloodstream
Decrease platelet aggregation, preventing excessive blood clotting
Inhibit thickening of the arteries by decreasing endothelial cells' production of a platelet-derived growth factor (the lining of the arteries is composed of endothelial cells)
Increase the activity of another chemical derived from endothelial cells (endothelium-derived nitric oxide), which causes arteries to relax and dilate
Reduce the production of messenger chemicals called cytokines, which are involved in the inflammatory response associated with atherosclerosis
Reduce the risk of becoming obese and improve the body's ability to respond to insulin by stimulating the secretion of leptin, a hormone that helps regulate food intake, body weight and metabolism, and is expressed primarily by adipocytes (fat cells)
Help prevent cancer cell growth
What conditions or symptoms indicate a need for more high-omega-3 foods?
Depression
Cardiovascular Disease
Type 2 Diabetes
Fatigue
Dry, itchy skin
Brittle hair and nails
Inability to concentrate
Joint pain
While omega-3 fish oil can help reduce high blood pressure, triglycerides, and sudden cardiac death, there are other important uses for omega-3 fish oil. For instance, adding omega-3 fatty acids to infant formula has shown great benefit in infant neural growth and development.
Sardines, flax seeds and walnuts are excellent food sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Research indicates that omega-3s may be better absorbed from food than supplements.
Fish oil contains both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), while some nuts (English walnuts) and vegetable oils (canola, soybean, flaxseed/linseed, olive) contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
Fish oil supplements are usually made from mackerel, herring, tuna, halibut, salmon, cod liver, whale blubber, or seal blubber. Fish oil supplements often contain small amounts of vitamin E to prevent spoilage. They might also be combined with calcium, iron, or vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, or D.
Fish oil is used for a
wide range of conditions. It is most often used for conditions
related to the heart and blood system. Some people use fish oil to
lower blood pressure or triglyceride levels (fats related to
cholesterol). Fish oil has also been tried for preventing heart
disease or stroke. The scientific evidence suggests that fish oil
really does lower high triglycerides, and it also seems to help
prevent heart disease and stroke when taken in the recommended
amounts. Ironically, taking too much fish oil can actually increase
the risk of stroke.
Fish may have earned its reputation as
"brain food" because some people eat fish to help with
depression, psychosis, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD), Alzheimer's disease, and other thinking disorders.
Some
people use fish oil for dry eyes, glaucoma, and age-related macular
degeneration (AMD), a very common condition in older people that can
lead to serious sight problems.
Women sometimes take fish oil
to prevent painful periods; breast pain; and complications associated
with pregnancy such as miscarriage, high blood pressure late in
pregnancy, and early delivery.
Fish oil is also used for
diabetes, asthma, developmental coordination disorders, movement
disorders, dyslexia, obesity, kidney disease, weak bones
(osteoporosis), certain diseases related to pain and swelling such as
psoriasis, and preventing weight loss caused by some
cancerdrugs.
Fish oil is sometimes used after heart transplant
surgery to prevent high blood pressure and kidney damage that can be
caused by the surgery itself or by drugs used to reduce the chances
that the body will reject the new heart. Fish oil is sometimes used
after coronary artery bypass surgery. It seems to help keep the blood
vessel that has been rerouted from closing up.
When fish oil
is obtained by eating fish, the way the fish is prepared seems to
make a difference. Eating broiled or baked fish appears to reduce the
risk of heart disease, but eating fried fish or fish sandwiches not
only cancels out the benefits of fish oil, but may actually increase
heart disease risk.
Two of the most important omega-3 fatty
acids contained in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and
docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). See separate listings for EPA and DHA.
A lot of the benefit of
fish oil seems to come from the omega-3 fatty acids that it contains.
Interestingly, the body does not produce its own omega-3 fatty acids.
Nor can the body make omega-3 fatty acids from omega-6 fatty acids,
which are common in the Western diet. A lot of research has been done
on EPA and DHA, two types of omega-3 acids that are often included in
fish oil supplements.
Omega-3 fatty acids reduce pain and
swelling. This may explain why fish oil is likely effective for
psoriasis and dry eyes. These fatty acids also prevent the blood from
clotting easily. this might make fish oil helpful for some heart
conditions.
Here are some advantages of including fish oil in your diet.
Fish oil is believed to help improve brain development and aid in memory. There are studies that show how important DHA is when it comes to cognitive thinking. For instance, a recent study showed that fish oil will actually slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. There are studies showing that DHA actually plays a major role in brain functions. In other words, if you have a family history of Alzheimer's disease, fish oil may help prevent it. On a different note, another study found that women who were pregnant who digested fish oil supplements daily had babies with better hand and eye coordination as well as developed cognitively quicker by the age of three.
Many people are pointing at fish oil as a natural solution to curing modern day diseases such as ADHA, dyslexia and dyspraxia. In fact, fish oil supplements have been used as a way to help those with other mental disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. Aside from Alzheimer's disease, fish oil can also help in reducing the risk of other mental illnesses like depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) among children, dyspraxia, bipolar disorder and dyslexia.
Fish oil is thought to help reduce your risk of a heart attack. There is this misconception that all fats are bad. In actuality, the fatty acids that make up fish oil has been proven to reduce cholesterol and lower blood pressure. The secret is that fish oil naturally reduces inflammation in the body.
Some think that fish oil can help reduce your chances of getting cancer. Once again, chalk it up to the fatty acids. Fish oil will stop or slow cancerous cell growth. Women can reduce their chances of getting breast cancer just by taking fish oil or eating salmon or mackeral. Research has shown that your chances are significantly reduced just by adding it to your diet.
Fish oil will help reduce the effects of those who have to deal with arthritis (including gout), colitis, asthma and lupus. The reason behind this is the anti-inflammatory properties that will help reduce the pain associated with these disease.
Fish oil will help reduce the risks associated with pregnancy. As stated above, not only will the fatty omega 3's help with your child's brain development, it will also reduce the risk of an premature or early birth. Fish oil will also help women who are suffering from post partum depression. There are even some who believe that fish oil will aid in fertility as well.
Fish oil is good for an all around healthy body. Omega 3's and 6's are thought to help the body produce serotonin which will increase a person's happiness in life overall. Another good thing about fish oil is that it is known to help with skin problems and will improve eyesight, reduce acne, help naturally treat rosacea and improve the texture of your hair.
Fish oil is good for high triglycerides. High triglycerides are associated with heart disease and untreated diabetes. To reduce the risk of heart disease, doctors believe it is important to keep triglycerides below a certain level. Doctors usually recommend increasing physical activity and restricting dietary fat to lower triglycerides. Sometimes they also prescribe drugs such as gemfibrozil (Lopid) for use in addition to these lifestyle changes. Now researchers believe that fish oil, though not as effective as gemfibrozil, can reduce triglyceride levels by 20% to 50%.
So with so many potentials out there and given the fact that fish oil is so good for you, what is the best? The answer is pharmaceutical grade fish oil supplements. The reason for this is that if you eat too much fish, you risk the possibility of ingesting harmful chemicals such as mercury and PCB's.
The intake of the recommended amount of DHA and EPA has been shown to have many heart healthy benefits. Consumption of dietary fish or fish oil supplements can lower triglycerides-a certain type of blood fat-and increase "good" cholesterol, while slightly thinning the blood. All of these factors help reduce the risk of heart attack. Fish oil also helps to prevent dangerous abnormal heart rhythms that can cause sudden cardiac death, and strokes in people with known cardiovascular disease. In addition to the numerous benefits already mentioned for the heart, fish oil can also slow the hardening of arteries and slightly lower blood pressure-two more important factors of heart health.
Omega-3 fatty acids are not only good for the heart; they also help to reduce inflammation. This is perhaps one of the most valuable benefits of the Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, as inflammation is associated with many serious diseases. Heart disease, cancer, autoimmune diseases, psoriasis, and Alzheimer's, for example, are characterized by increased levels of pro-inflammatory markers. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil reduce inflammation by preventing production of pro-inflammatory signaling molecules. This may help to prevent serious illness associated with inflammation.
The ability of fish oil to reduce inflammation is not only good for preventing serious illnesses, such as heart disease and cancer. Fish oil is also effective in reducing the symptoms and pain of arthritis. Morning stiffness and joint tenderness was shown to decrease with regular intake of fish oil supplements. Fish oil does not act as a painkiller, and it takes regular use before a difference is noticed. However, fish oil is a viable, natural way to reduce the pain and symptoms associated with arthritis if one is dedicated to the long term outcome rather than focused on immediate cessation of symptoms.
As if the benefits of fish oil on heart health and arthritis were not enough, it is believed that fish oil also helps with anti-aging as well. Omega-3 fatty acids slow the rate at which protective caps on the end of chromosomes shorten, thus increasing the lifespan of cells. The caps, or telomeres, are made from copied strands of DNA and prevent the chromosomes from becoming damaged. When a cell divides, its telomere gets shorter until it can get no shorter and the DNA becomes damaged. When the DNA is damaged the cell no longer divides. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil slows the deterioration of the telomeres, resulting in longer life of cells.
Prolonging the life of cells is not the only anti-aging benefit of fish oil. Fish oil has also been shown to significantly reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. A major component of the eye's retina is DHA, accounting for 60% of the fatty acids in the retina. Macular degeneration is a common cause of blindness in the elderly and has no effective treatment. Omega-3 fatty acids help support healthy circulation and blood vessel strength, as well as naturally lowering cholesterol levels-all of which are causes of macular degeneration. Due to the benefits of fish oil, it may prove to be the first effective treatment against macular degeneration.
The benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are not only for the aging or those facing serious medical issues. Fish oil has also been shown to be beneficial to pregnant women and the unborn child. It is recommended that a pregnant woman have 900 mg of fish oil per day, which is equivalent to a serving of salmon per day. The benefits to the unborn child are numerous and include: a healthier brain with increased intelligence; good nervous system development; better eyesight from retina formation; fewer behavioral problems after birth; and better sleeping patterns as a new born. The mother also receives benefits from her consumption of fish oil. These benefits include: a lower chance of developing preeclampsia; a decreased chance of preterm labor; and a greatly reduced incidence of breast cancer. With benefits such as those, all pregnant women should adhere to the recommended daily dosage of fish oil and thus increase her odds of delivering a happy and healthy child. The reason fish oil is so beneficial to the unborn child is because 70% of a newborn's brain, retina and nervous system are made up of the Omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA. Therefore, increasing the amount of these fatty acids present in the mother's diet, and therefore being given to her unborn child, aides in the child's development of the brain, retina and nervous system.
Not only is fish oil beneficial to physical health, fish oil is also beneficial to mental health. Alzheimer's is a debilitating disease causing memory loss, dementia, personality change, and eventually death. People with Alzheimer's have a reduced amount of a protein called LR11, which prevents toxic "plaques-deposits" of a protein that are toxic to neurons in the brain. The Omega-3 fatty acid, DHA, increases the production of the protein LR11, thus decreasing the amount of toxic "plaques" and helping to prevent the occurrence of Alzheimer's.
Fish oil does not only help prevent Alzheimer's. It also helps to prevent mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Omega-3 fatty acids help maintain the proper functioning of dopamine and serotonin signaling systems in the brain. Both dopamine and serotonin levels, and the signaling system of those hormones, are believed to contribute to the occurrence of depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Therefore, Omega-3 fatty acids may help to regulate those hormones and lessen the symptoms of these severe mental illnesses. Combined with typical drug therapy, fish oil high in Omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to help regulate the moods of those suffering from these three illnesses.
High blood pressure. Fish oil seems to produce modest reductions in blood pressure in people with high blood pressure. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil seem to be able to expand blood vessels, and this brings blood pressure down.
Rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil alone, or in combination with the drug naproxen (Naprosyn), seems to help people with rheumatoid arthritis get over morning stiffness faster. People who take fish oil can sometimes reduce their use of pain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea). Taking fish oil alone or in combination with vitamin B12 seems to improve painful periods and reduce the need for pain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).
Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. Taking fish oil seems to improve thinking skills and behavior in 8 to 12 year-old children with ADHD.
Raynaud's syndrome. There's some evidence that taking fish oil can improve cold tolerance in some people with the usual form of Raynaud's syndrome. But people with Raynaud's syndrome caused by a condition called progressive systemic sclerosis don't seem to benefit from fish oil supplements.
Stroke. Moderate fish consumption (once or twice a week) seems to lower the risk of having a stroke by as much as 27%. However, eating fish doesn't lower stroke risk in people who are already taking aspirin for prevention. On the other hand, very high fish consumption (more than 46 grams of fish per day) seems to increase stroke risk, perhaps even double it.
Weak bones (osteoporosis). Taking fish oil alone or in combination with calcium and evening primrose oil seems to slow bone loss rate and increase bone density at the thigh bone (femur) and spine in elderly people with osteoporosis.
Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis). Fish oil seems to slow or slightly reverse the progress of atherosclerosis in the arteries serving the heart (coronary arteries), but not in the arteries that bring blood up the neck to the head (carotid arteries).
Kidney problems. Long-term use (two years) of fish oil 4-8 grams daily can slow the loss of kidney function in high-risk patients with a kidney disease called IgA nephropathy. Fish oil also seems to reduce the amount of protein in the urine of people who have kidney disease as a result of diabetes.
Bipolar disorder. Taking fish oil with the usual treatments for bipolar disorder seems to improve symptoms of depression and increase the length of time between episodes of depression. But fish oil doesn't seem to improve manic symptoms in people with bipolar disorder.
Psychosis. Taking a fish oil supplement might help prevent full psychotic illness from developing in people with mild symptoms. This has only been tested in teenagers and adults up to age 25.
Weight loss. Some evidence shows that eating fish improves weight loss and decreases blood sugar in overweight people and people with high blood pressure when combined with exercise.
Endometrial cancer. There is some evidence that women who regularly eat about two servings of fatty fish per week have a reduced risk of developing endometrial cancer.
Age-related eye disease (age-related macular degeneration, AMD). There is some evidence that people who eat fish more than once per week have a lower risk of developing age-related macular degeneration.
Reducing the risk of blood vessel re-blockage after heart bypass surgery or "balloon" catheterization (balloon angioplasty). Fish oil appears to decrease the rate of re-blockage up to 26% when given for one month before the procedure and continued for one month thereafter. Apparently, taking fish oil before surgery is important. When taken for less than one month before angioplasty, fish oil doesn't help protect the blood vessel against closing down.
Recurrent miscarriage in pregnant women with antiphospholipid syndrome. Taking fish oil seems to prevent miscarriage and increase live birth rate in pregnant women with a condition called antiphospholipid syndrome.
High blood pressure and kidney problems after heart transplant. Taking fish oil seems to preserve kidney function and reduce the long-term continuous rise in blood pressure after heart transplantation.
Damage to the kidneys and high blood pressure caused by taking a drug called cyclosporine. Cyclosporine is a medication that reduces the chance of organ rejection after an organ transplant. Fish oil might help reduce some of the unwanted side effects of treatment with this drug.
Movement disorder in children (dyspraxia). Taking fish oil orally, in combination with evening primrose oil, thyme oil, and vitamin E, seems to improve movement disorders in children with dyspraxia.
Developmental coordination disorder. A combination of fish oil (80%) and evening primrose oil (20%) seems to improve reading, spelling, and behavior when given to children age 5-12 years with developmental coordination disorder. However, it doesn't seem to improve motor skills.
Preventing blockage of grafts used in kidney dialysis. Taking fish oil orally seems to help prevent clot formation in hemodialysis grafts.
Psoriasis. There is some evidence that administering fish oil intravenously (by IV) can decrease severe psoriasis symptoms. But taking fish oil by mouth doesn't seem to have any effect on psoriasis.
High cholesterol. There is interest in using fish oil in combination with "statin" drugs for some people with high cholesterol. Doctors were worried at first that taking fish oil might interfere with statin treatment, but early studies show this is not a problem, at least with the statin called simvastatin. Scientists think fish oil may lower cholesterol by keeping it from being absorbed in the intestine. There is some evidence that using vitamin B12 along with fish oil might boost their ability to lower cholesterol.
Coronary artery bypass surgery. Taking fish oil seems to prevent coronary artery bypass grafts from re-closing following coronary artery bypass surgery.
Cancer-related weight loss. Taking a high dose (7.5 grams per day) of fish oil seems to slow weight loss in some cancer patients. Some researchers believe these patients eat more because the fish oil is fighting depression and improving their mood.
Asthma. Some research suggests fish oil may lower the occurrence of asthma in infants and children when taken by women late in pregnancy. Furthermore, fish oil seems to improve airflow, reduce cough, and lower the need for medications in some children with asthma. However, fish oil treatment doesn't seem to provide the same benefit for adults.
Allergies. Some research suggests that mothers who take fish oil supplements during the late stages of pregnancy may lower the occurrence of allergies in their children.
Alzheimer's disease. There is some preliminary evidence that fish oil may help prevent Alzheimer's disease. But it doesn't seem to help prevent a decline in thinking skills for most people who already have mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease.
Atopic dermatitis. Mothers who take fish oil supplements during pregnancy might reduce the occurrence and severity of atopic dermatitis in babies and children who are at risk for this condition. But fish oil doesn't seem to be effective for treating atopic dermatitis.
Atrial fibrillation. Research studies into the effects of fish oil on atrial fibrillation have produced conflicting results.
Depression. There is inconsistent information about the effect of taking fish oil on depression. Some research shows that taking fish oil along with an antidepressant might help improve symptoms. But other research shows that taking fish oil does not improve symptoms.
Dry eye syndrome. Some research links eating more fish with a lower risk of getting dry eye syndrome in women. Some preliminary clinical research also suggests that taking a specific product containing fish oil plus flaxseed oil (TheraTears Nutrition) might reduce symptoms of dry eye and increase tear production.
Cancer. Research studies into the effects of fish oil on cancer prevention have produced conflicting results.
Cataracts. There is some evidence that eating fish three times a week can modestly lower the risk of developing cataracts.
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). There is some conflicting evidence about the use of a product (Efamol Marine) that combines fish oil and evening primrose oil to reduce the symptoms CFS.
Chronic kidney disease. Preliminary evidence shows that fish oil might have benefit for some people with chronic kidney disease who are receiving dialysis treatments.
Thinking skills (cognitive function). Research studies into the effects of fish oil on cognitive function have produced conflicting results.
Crohn's disease. Research studies into the effects of fish oil on Crohn's disease have produced conflicting results.
Prediabetes. Early studies suggest that fish oil may help prevent prediabetes from advancing to type 2 diabetes.
Infant development. There is some evidence that mothers who take 4 grams of fish oil daily during the last half of pregnancy may improve their baby's cognitive development by some measures, but not others. At age 2.5 years, these children seem to have better hand and eye coordination, but reasoning, social, motor, and speech skills are not significantly improved.
Ulcerative colitis. Research studies into the effects of fish oil on ulcerative colitis have produced conflicting results.
Pregnancy complications. There is some evidence that taking fish oil during the last ten weeks of pregnancy can help prevent premature delivery. However, fish oil doesn't seem to help prevent high blood pressure during pregnancy.
Prematurity. Baby formula that has been fortified with fatty acids from fish oil and borage seems to improve growth and the development of the nervous system in premature infants, especially boys.
Salicylate intolerance. Some limited research suggests that taking fish oil might improve symptoms of salicylate intolerance such as asthma attacks and itching.
Schizophrenia. There is one report of fish oil improving schizophrenia in a pregnant woman.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Research shows conflicting results. Some studies suggest that fish oil helps the symptoms of SLE, while others show no effect.
Irregular heartbeat affecting the ventricles (ventricular arrhythmias). Research studies into the effect of fish oil on ventricular arrhythmias have produced conflicting results.
Improving night vision in children with a disorder called dyslexia. Children with dyslexia who take fish oil seem to be significantly better able to adapt to the dark.
Other conditions.
More evidence is needed to rate fish oil for these uses.
The quality of the fish oil consumed is extremely important, and now it shouldn't be quite so confusing or difficult to ensure that the highest quality is obtained. Even if the highest quality fish oil supplement is ensured, however, there are still possible side effects to consuming these supplements that one should be aware of. Generally, doses of 3 mg or fewer of fish oil supplements per day produce little to no side effects. However, fish oil does have a slight blood thinning effect-an effect that helps to explain why it is so beneficial for heart health, and an effect that is not necessarily bad in and of itself. This blood thinning effect can increase the risks of bleeding, easy bruising and nose bleeds though. This is especially important to consider if you are taking other blood thinning herbs or medication, because concurrent use of blood thinning medications or herbs may increase the risks of bleeding. The fact that fish oil causes blood thinning and thus increases the risk of bleeding, the use of fish oil supplements should be stopped prior to surgery and it is extremely important that you tell your doctor if you are taking fish oil supplements so your doctor can advise you as to the proper procedure that should be taken in preparation for surgery.
Fish oil can cause side effects including belching, bad breath, burping, heartburn, stomach pain, bloating, nausea, loose stools, upset stomach, diarrhea, rash, nosebleeds, acid reflux, and indigestion. These are actually the most common side effects of fish oil. Taking fish oil supplements with meals or freezing them can often decrease these side effects. Start taking a small fish oil dosage and slowly increase the amount you take.
Some people get diarrhea from fish oil and it only gets worse for them with higher amounts.
When taken in high doses, fish oil can increase the risk of bleeding. It may be in the form of nosebleeds, strokes and blood in urine.
Incessant burping and aftertaste of fish are other side effects of the consumption of fish oil.
Allergic reactions, skin rashes, itching, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat. These omega 3 fish oil side effects usually only happen in people who have allergies to fish.
Vitamin poisoning is another side effect of fish oil because it contains some vitamins, which, if ingested in large amounts can be harmful to health. Fish liver and fish liver oils (like cod liver oil) contain high amounts of vitamins D and A. Fish oil supplements, however, do not contain too much vitamin A or D. Also, vitamin E is sometimes added to fish oil products to make up for the vitamin E deficiency caused by taking fish oil over long periods of time.
Rare fish oil side effects that have been claimed include mania in people with bipolar disorder or major depression, restlessness and the sensation of ants crawling on the skin.
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of allergic reaction, including:
hives
difficulty breathing
swelling of your throat, tongue, lips or face
Call your doctor and stop taking fish oil if you have any of these side effects:
uneven heart beats
flu symptoms, like fever, body aches or chills
chest pain
Consult your doctor before taking fish oil supplements if you:
have congestive heart failure (or any other condition where the heart is receiving insufficient blood flow)
people taking insulin,
bruise easily,
have a disorder involving bleeding
take blood thinners
Be careful when starting fish oil supplements if you:
are diabetic
are at risk for bleeding
have high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
have fish allergies
are breast-feeding or pregnant
give fish oil to young children, especially those under the age of five
Fish oil is SAFE
for most people, including pregnant and breast-feeding women, when
taken in low doses (3 grams or less per day).
Taking high
doses of fish oil is POSSIBLY
UNSAFE. Taking more than 3 grams per day might keep blood from
clotting and can increase the chance of bleeding.
High doses
of fish oil might also reduce the immune system's activity, reducing
the body's ability to fight infection. This is a special concern for
people taking medications to reduce their immune system's activity
(HIV/AIDS patients, for example) and the elderly.
Taking fish
oil supplements in larger amounts can increase levels of the "bad"
LDL cholesterol in some people. You will need blood tests
periodically to ensure LDL cholesterols do not become too high.
Some
fish meats (especially shark, king mackerel, and farm-raised salmon)
can be contaminated with mercury and other industrial and
environmental chemicals, but fish oil supplements typically do not
contain these contaminants.
The liver and liver products (such as cod liver oil) of fish and many animals (such as seals and whales) contain omega-3, but also the active form of vitamin A. At high levels, this form of the vitamin can be dangerous (Hypervitaminosis A).
Liver disease: Fish
oil might increase the risk of bleeding.
Fish or seafood
allergy: Some people who are allergic to seafood such as fish
might also be allergic to fish oil supplements. There is no reliable
information showing how likely people with seafood allergy are to
have an allergic reaction to fish oil; however, until more is known
advise patients allergic to seafood to avoid or use fish oil
supplements cautiously.
Bipolar disorder: Taking fish
oil might increase some of the symptoms of this
condition.
Depression: Taking fish oil might increase
some of the symptoms of this condition in some people.
Diabetes:
There is some concern that taking high doses of fish oil might make
the control of blood sugar more difficult.
High blood
pressure: Fish oil can lower blood pressure and might cause blood
pressure to drop too low in people who are being treated with blood
pressure-lowering medications.
HIV/AIDS and other
conditions in which the immune system response is lowered: Higher
doses of fish oil can lower the body's immune system response. This
could be a problem for people whose immune system is already
weak.
An implanted defibrillator (a surgically placed
device to prevent irregular heartbeat): Some, but not all, research
suggests that fish oil might increase the risk of irregular heartbeat
in patients with an implanted defibrillator. Stay on the safe side by
avoiding fish oil supplements.
Familial adenomatous
polyposis: There is some concern that fish oil might further
increase the risk of getting cancer in people with this condition.
Varying opinions and recommendations regarding the proper dosage of fish oil makes it essential that medical advice is sought before determining and beginning any dosage, but particularly any dosage above the FDA's recommendation of 3,000 mg daily. Additionally, due to the blood thinning effect of fish oil supplements, anyone with a chronic blood disorder should consult a medical doctor before taking ANY dosage of fish oil.
High dosages of fish oil supplements increase the risk of side effects, such as bleeding, easy bruising and nose bleeds, whereas low dosages generally have little to no associated side effects. The amount of fish oil one should take depends heavily on the reasoning behind their consumption of fish oil. Dosage should always be discussed with your medical doctor, and should be discusses especially if taking fish oil for a specific medical condition. However, here are some general guidelines for specific fish oil dosages:
- Aging 1,000 mg twice a day
- Angina 2,000 mg fish oils 3 times a day
- Arrhythmia 1,000 mg 3 times a day
- Asthma 1,000 mg 3 times a day
- Cancer 3 capsules twice a day
- Crohn's Disease 2,000 mg twice a day
- Diabetes 2,000 mg 3 times a day
- Eczema 1,000 mg 3 times a day
- Gout 1,000 mg 3 times a day
- Heart Disease Prevention 1,000 mg 3 times a day
- High Blood Pressure 1,000 mg 3 times a day
- Lupus 2,000 mg 3 times a day
- Psoriasis 2,000 mg 3 times a day
- Raynaud's disease 1,000 mg 4 times a day
- Rheumatoid Arthritis 1000 mg (2 capsules) containing 600 mg EPA/DHA, twice a day
- Skin Health 1,000 mg a day with food
- Stroke 1,000 mg 3 times a day
The FDA does not have a specific recommended dosage for fish oil. However, the FDA does recommend that an average healthy person (above the age of 5) should not take more than 3,000 mg of fish oil per day. The list above exceeds that recommendation in some cases, and is why the advice of a medical doctor should be followed before determining the proper dosage of fish oil when used for specific medical conditions.
The World Health Organization recommends starting dosages of fish oil at 300 - 500 mg per day, as it is a good idea to start slowly in order to see how your body feels and to ensure there are no adverse side effects or allergies. While starting out slow is a good idea, it is important to note that most of the research praising the benefit of Omega-3 fatty acids is done using dosages of 1,000 mg and up. For example, the American Heart Association recommends a daily dosage of 2,000 - 4,000 mg for high triglycerides, and a daily dosage of 1,000 mg for coronary artery disease. Additionally, some people believe extremely high dosages are effective in treating major issues like depression (4,000 mg), and lupus and arthritis (6,000 mg). If fish oil is being taken for a specific medical condition that suggests a higher dosage than the recommended 3,000 mg per day, it is important to start out slow and work up to the higher dosage. When discussing fish oil dosage with your doctor be sure to bring up starting up slow and seek medical advice on the best way to slowly increase dosage until the desired amount is reached.
The following doses have been studied in scientific research:
BY MOUTH:
For high triglycerides: 1-4 grams/day of fish oil.
For high blood pressure: Either 4 grams of fish oil or fish oil providing 2.04 grams of EPA and 1.4 grams of DHA per day.
For atrial fibrillation (one of the chambers of the heart doesn't empty properly and this increases the risk of blood clot formation leading to stroke): Eating tuna or baked or broiled fish providing omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) one or more times per week seems to reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation in patients aged 65 or older compared to consuming fish once per month or less. But there is no benefit from eating fried fish or a fish sandwich.
For kidney problems related to using cyclosporine to prevent organ transplant rejection: 12 grams/day containing 2.2 grams EPA and 1.4 grams DHA.
For reducing the overall risk of death and risk of sudden death in patients with coronary heart disease: Fish oil providing 0.3-6 grams of EPA with 0.6 to 3.7 grams of DHA.
For asthma in children: Fish oil providing 17-26.8 mg/kg EPA and 7.3-11.5 mg/kg DHA for reducing symptoms. Maternal ingestion of fish oil 4 grams daily, providing 32% EPA and 23% DHA with tocopherol, during late-phase pregnancy has been used for preventing the development of asthma in children.
For preventing childhood allergies: Maternal ingestion of fish oil 4 grams daily, providing 32% EPA and 23% DHA with tocopherol, during late-phase pregnancy.
For preventing childhood atopic dermatitis: Maternal ingestion of fish oil 4 grams daily, providing 32% EPA and 23% DHA with tocopherol, during late-phase pregnancy.
For treating asthma: 17-26.8 mg/kg EPA and 7.3-11.5 mg/kg DHA.
For preventing and reversing the progression of hardening of the arteries: 6 grams/day of fish oil for the first three months, followed by 3 grams/day thereafter.
For rheumatoid arthritis: Fish oil providing 3.8 grams/day of EPA and 2 grams/day DHA.
For attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A specific supplement containing fish oil 400 mg and evening primrose oil 100 mg (Eye Q, Novasel) six capsules daily.
For preventing miscarriage in women with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and a history of past miscarriage: 5.1 grams fish oil with a 1.5 EPA:DHA ratio.
For painful menstrual periods: A daily dose of EPA 1080 mg and DHA 720 mg.
For Raynaud's syndrome: A daily dose of 3.96 grams EPA and 2.64 grams DHA.
For weight loss: A daily serving of 2-7 ounces of fish containing approximately 3.65 grams omega-3 fatty acids (0.66 gram from EPA and 0.60 gram from DHA).
For slowing weight loss in patients with cancer: 7.5 grams/day of fish oil providing EPA 4.7 grams and DHA 2.8 grams.
For improving movement disorders in children with poor coordination (dyspraxia): Fish oil providing DHA 480 mg combined with 35 mg arachidonic acid and 96 mg gamma-alpha linoleic acid from evening primrose oil, 24 mg thyme oil, and 80 mg vitamin E (Efalex).
For developmental coordination disorder in children: Fish oil providing EPA 558 mg and DHA 174 in 3 divided doses.
For depression along with conventional antidepressants: Fish oil 9.6 grams/day.
To prevent full psychosis from developing in people with mild symptoms: Fish oil 1.2 grams/day.
For keeping veins open after coronary bypass surgery: 4 grams/day of fish oil containing EPA 2.04 grams and DHA 1.3 grams.
For preventing the collapse of arteries opened by "balloon" therapy (PTCA): 6 grams/day of fish oil starting one month before PTCA and continuing one month after PTCA, followed by 3 grams of fish oil daily thereafter for six months.
For reducing and preventing the long-term continuous rise in blood pressure and to preserve kidney function after heart transplantation: 4 grams/day of fish oil (46.5% EPA and 37.8% DHA).
For preventing clotting after placement of a tube for dialysis: 6 grams/day of fish oil.
For preserving kidney function in patients with severe IgA nephropathy: 4-8 grams/day of fish oil has been used.
For combined high triglycerides and high cholesterol: Fish oil providing EPA 1800-2160 mg and DHA 1200-1440 mg combined with garlic powder 900-1200 mg/day has been used to lower total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, and the ratios of total cholesterol to HDL, and LDL to HDL.
For salicylate intolerance: Fish oil 10 grams daily.
So, you have decided to try a fish oil supplement, went to the local grocery and discovered that there is a lot more than simply "one good" supplement. What's next? How do you choose the best fish oil supplement? Well, one of the things you should consider is the amount of DHA to EPA ratios. This is the omega 3 fatty acid content.
There are actually 3 types of Omega 3 fatty acids. Incidentally, these are not only found in fish (which is the best source) but in game animals as well as animals that are raised organically.
The 3 types:
EPA
DHA
ALA
You already know a little about EPA and DHA...but what about ALA? ALA is otherwise known as alpha linolenic acid and is typically found in plant sources such as flax seed (flax seed oil) and a variety of nuts and oils. It can also be found in organic meats that are natural grazers because they eat plant sources.
EPA and DHA are the two omega 3 fatty acids found in fish and fish oil supplements. Now, there is a difference between ALA and DHA/EPA. The most notable one is the scientific version. ALA is a short chain omega 3 and DHA and EPA is a long chain Omega 3. Your body processes both fatty acids differently. The short chain acids (such as ALA) have to be converted into a longer chain form. This is precisely why you hear more about the benefits of fish oil supplements than flax oil.
Researchers believe that they are, at least in terms of health benefits. The reason? As someone once put it...the proof is in the pudding. Both EPA and DHA have already been proven to have a dramatic effect on reducing and preventing hear disease. The problem with the shorter fatty acids is that scientists believe that the body would have to take an extra step in converting the acid into something that the body can use.
Since fish oil supplements can range anywhere between an out and out scam (snake oil) to a pharmaceutical grade fish oil (which is the best supplement to get), we have to know where the fish oil came from. In order to do this, we can take a look at where the source of the fish oil is coming from. And we can do this simply by looking at the label. The reason why you would want to do this is because not all fish oil supplements will be as potent as others. The best fish oil comes from cold water fish, most notably salmon.
Additionally, if the label doesn't show the type of fish it is pulling its oil from, then this should ring an alarm in your head. Tell-tale signs include ingredients such as "fish oil" or "marine lipids." Your fish oil should state the actual species of fish to ensure that it is pure.
The following reviews have been selected:
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georgina 16.09.2009. 23:47
I started taking 2-1200 Mg fish oil pills twice a day equalling 4800 mg per day. I was told thru testing that I was pre-diabetic. After taking the fish oil for 3 months I had my blood tested and I am no longer in the range of being pre-diabetic. Now I am going to see how long it takes to change the readings on my cholestrol. This is exciting!!
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David Schaller 14.03.2010. 00:01
I am a Sgt. of Marines i recently bought a container of fish oil pills i matched it with the fish pill diagram its the second one. I have no disabilities but in regards to anything else i have noticed i can breathe easier, i can think into depth without getting a head ache, I can see clearer, even though the doctor says i have 19:20 vision... I recommend taking the fishy pills. If it can help me I am undoubtly sure it can [help] you.
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Reviewer: 65-74 Male, 7/8/2011 9:21:18 PM
Comment:
After a few blood work tests, my primary doctor was concerned that mymy triglyceride triglyceride level was too high. My doctor recommened fish oil capsules. After 3 months, my blood test showed a 30 point drop in my triglyceride.
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Reviewer: galarch, 55-64 Female, 1/18/2009 10:57:33 AM
Comment:
My bad cholesterol is high and good is low fish oil has decreased the bad.I also noticed hair is healthier and nails are growing again,I take two a day. along with a better diet and walking I beleive I have avoided more expensive prescribed medications.
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Reviewer: cmcny, 19-24 Female, 8/5/2008 10:46:42 AM
Comment:
My Dr recommended fish oil because I had joint problems as well as hormonal issues. Since using the omega 3's in fish and flax oils I have noticed better moods along with better mobility and less joint pain.
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Reason for taking: Schizophrenia
Reviewer: Life10 Female, 9/23/2011 9:12:46 AM
I used fish oil because it was recommended by my psychiatrist for schitzophrenia. I have used it in conjunction with SBX and I have reduced my medication and I have no symptoms. I definately thinks it played a part in my recovery.
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40 of 42 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Results are in: These _work_, August 25, 2009
By
Banan Tarr (Alaska, USA)
I take regular blood tests as a factor of my employment. In the past, I've had high cholesterol and triglycerides. Three months ago I decided to start taking daily fish oil supplements. Two months ago I picked up this particular kind. A month ago I started taking two of these per day, based on the fact that a coworker told me about his daily intake as directed by a doctor.
So, what was the result so far?
My triglycerides dropped over 30% in 3 months!
My overall cholesterol dropped, while at the same time my good cholesterol went up.
And these are the medically measurable results. Other things I've noticed:
My mood has improved dramatically. It takes a lot to break me out of a good mood now.
My hair and skin both look and feel much healthier.
I seem to have slightly lower blood pressure as well, but I can't be sure.
So, long story short: For me, these just plain _work_. And there is zero fishy aftertaste or burping. The price is right as well. You have nothing to lose, just beware of the warning labels as with all supplements.
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103 of 111 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars one stroke is enough, August 6, 2006
By
Joseph Lawrence "cool breeze" (Sevierville,Tennessee)
Not a day goes by that I don't use these gelcaps, ever since my stroke 6 years ago. Not only that, but now I also purchase them for my mother. who just turned 80 in July. Her doctor said her cholesterol results lowered over 40 points in just 2 months after starting to use this product. My results changed dramatically from high triglycerides + high blood pressure to an average range within normal limits. Both doctors said to keep this regimen since it is definitely helping because diets alone and medications weren't enough to give these kind of results.
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76 of 82 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Fish Oil = Great Health... Great Value, March 31, 2008
By
J-Reezy (Bay Area)
I have now been taking these pills for 8 months and in a recent check-up the doctor told me my cholesterol was at amazing levels.
My 2008 cholesterol levels:
Total Cholesterol = 175 mg/dl (recommended below 200 mg/dl)
HDL Cholesterol = 95 mg/dl (recommended above 50 mg/dl)
LDL Cholesterol = N/A (below 100 mg/dl)
The doctor specifically told me that it was amazing for a 30 year old male to have an HDL of 95 and an LDL that was so low it did not register.
My 2007 cholesterol levels:
Total Cholesterol = 198 mg/dl (recommended below 200 mg/dl)
HDL Cholesterol = 61 mg/dl (recommended above 50 mg/dl)
LDL Cholesterol = 127 (below 100 mg/dl)
Aside from taking these pills my diet has remained the same. This suggests that these pills have [worked well] for my cholesterol levels
While less scientific, I have also witnessed the following benefits
- Better Skin (less breakouts/more even color)
- Less joint pain (I have had bad knees from years of Running)
- Stronger hair
- More energy (I used to always want a nap at 3pm)
This change in my body was gradual and there is great potential that it was a result of other things in my life. I won't claim these pills are a miracle substance, however, the cholesterol improvement alone should be enough proof that these pills are worth adding to your diet
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