Cholesterol Content Of Fish Oil

The American Heart Association recommends consuming fish at least twice per week as they contain many nutrients and provide several health benefits. The oil from fish contains omega-3 fatty acids which are particularly beneficial for heart health. High blood cholesterol levels are a major factor in the development of cardiovascular disease and fish oil contains only small amounts of cholesterol and may even help improve cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol Content

The cholesterol content of fish oil varies slightly depending on the type of fish the oil is derived from. A teaspoon of fish oil from a herring contains 34.5 mg of cholesterol and a teaspoon from cod liver contains 25 mg, according to Calorie Lab. Menhaden-derived fish oil contains 23 mg of cholesterol and fish oil from salmon and sardines contain 22 mg and 32 mg, respectively, per teaspoon.

Cholesterol Guidelines

Individuals should strive for total cholesterol levels under 200 mg per deciliter of blood as higher levels increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Borderline-high risk cholesterol levels are defined as having total cholesterol levels between 200 and 239 mg per deciliter and high risk levels are 240 mg per deciliter and above, according to the American Heart Association. LDL or bad cholesterol levels are optimal when they fall below 100 mg per deciliter of blood with increasing levels of risk the higher the number, with LDL levels above 190 mg per deciliter defined as very high. HDL or good cholesterol levels are opposite of total and LDL levels with the higher the number the better. Men should have HDL levels above 40 mg per deciliter and women above 50 mg per deciliter. An HDL level above 60 mg per deciliter is protective against heart disease, according to the American Heart Association.

Dietary Reference Intakes

In general, the body -- primarily the liver -- produces the majority of cholesterol needed by the body. Cholesterol from the diet is generally not needed and consuming foods high in cholesterol may contribute to high blood cholesterol levels. The American Heart Association recommends limiting daily cholesterol intake to less than 300 mg for most people and less than 200 mg for individuals diagnosed with heart disease. Individuals with very high blood cholesterol levels may be instructed to limit their cholesterol intake even more, but it is important to discuss this information with a physician and dietitian.

Fish Oil and Cholesterol

Fish oil can be attained form eating fish or through dietary supplements. It is high in omega-3 fatty acids which have been shown to reduce blood pressure and high triglycerides as well as lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, according to MayoClinic.com. Fish oil does not appear to improve total cholesterol levels, but it may provide small improvements in HDL or good cholesterol levels. However, it also has been shown to raise LDL or bad cholesterol levels as well, according to MayoClinic.com. It is important to consult a doctor before taking fish oil supplements.

Cholesterol Content of Fish Oil