Fish Oil

Question: I have seen some positive studies etc. on fish oils and DHA an EPA, but haven't had much success in finding dosing when using this a supplement. Have you seen anything lately?

Answer: If you do not have heart disease and like to eat fish, you can gain the benefits of fish oil just fine without a supplement. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week. Fish particularly high in omega-3 fatty acids include mackerel, herring, albacore tuna, lake trout, sardines and salmon. However, if you would like to take fish oil supplements, the American Heart Association offers the following guidelines:

Summary of Recommendations for Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake

Patients without documented coronary heart disease (CHD):
Eat a variety of (preferably fatty) fish at least twice a week. Include oils and foods rich in alpha-linolenic acid (flaxseed, canola and soybean oils; flaxseed and walnuts).

Patients with documented CHD
Consume about 1 g of EPA+DHA per day, preferably from fatty fish. EPA+DHA in capsule form could be considered in consultation with the physician.

Patients who need to lower triglycerides
2 to 4 grams of EPA+DHA per day provided as capsules under a physician’s care.

Patients taking more than 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids from capsules should do so only under a physician’s care. High intakes could cause excessive bleeding in some people.

Hope this helps!

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