Fish oil capsules are a supplement derived from certain types of fatty fish, including salmon, tuna, cod liver, mackerel and herring. This natural treatment is full of omega-3 fatty acids. Taking omega-3 fatty acids on a regular basis may help lower you risk of developing certain health problems, including heart disease, arthritis and cancer. The dosage of fish oil you take daily depends upon your age and the current status of your health. If you're uncertain how much fish oil you should take daily, consult your medical provider for additional guidance.
Dosage for Health Adults
Each day, healthy adults may consume between 300 and 500mg of fish oil to help reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke. You should also be aware that you may not need to take fish oil capsules to get enough fish oil in your diet. As a healthy adult, consuming two 3.5-oz. servings of fatty fish every week will provide your body with an appropriate amount of fish oil.
Dosage for Adults with Heart Disease
If you have coronary heart disease, you can help protect your heart from further damage by taking 1g of fish oil each day. The fish oil capsules you choose should contain a combination of two different types of omega-3 fatty acids: EPA, or eicosapentaenoic acid and DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid.
Dosage for Adults with High Cholesterol
Taking fish oil capsules may help reduce the amount of fats or triglycerides in your blood. To help lower your cholesterol, you should take between 2 and 4g of fish oil on a daily basis. Do not take more than 3g of fish oil unless you are under the direct care of a health care professional. Treatment with high doses of fish oil may increase your risk of developing side effects, such as bleeding complications.
Contraindications
Fish oil capsules should not be given to children younger than 18 years of age unless a pediatrician recommends otherwise. As treatment with fish oil may increase your risk of bleeding, do not take this supplement if you have a pre-existing bleeding disorder. Fish oil may also raise your blood sugar levels, which may be problematic for people with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, if you are allergic to fish or shellfish, you may experience a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction upon exposure to fish oil supplements. Inform your medical provider of any health issues you may have before you start taking fish oil capsules.
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