The amount of fish oil you should take depends on what you're taking it for. In fact, MedlinePlus recommends 25 different dosages, depending on the problem you're treating. Too much fish oil can result in a number of side effects, such as an upset stomach and an increased danger of internal bleeding. Consult your doctor before taking fish oil supplements to see what dosage is best for you.
General Health
Fish oil supplements are often used as an addition to a general well-being regimen. How much you can take depends on a number of reasons. Capsules are available in different concentrations, so always read labels to see how much that specific brand and company recommends. According to the American Heart Association, the recommended amount of fish oil is 1 g per day. This is for supplements that combine eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA.
To Treat Heart Disease
The recommended dosage is 1 g for heart disease and 2 to 4 g to treat high triglycerides. If you're taking more than 1 g per day, split the dosage in two to ease stomach discomfort and to improve absorption.
Children
According to MedlinePlus, children can take up to 26.8 mg of EPA per kilogram of weight to treat asthma. Children can take up to 480 mg of fish oil to treat poor coordination. To treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, the recommended dosage is 400 mg of fish oil. This is best when combined with 100 mg of evening primrose.
Women
A fish oil supplement that combines EPA and DHA is a good treatment for painful menstrual periods. Take up to 720 mg of DHA and 1,080 mg of EPA daily. Pregnant women with a history of miscarriage can take up to 5 g of fish oil to help prevent miscarriage.
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