Fish oil contains high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. Fish oil is most commonly used to fight heart disease and associated complications, but is also used to fight other health complications. Though fish oil is sold over-the-counter, it is important to take the proper dose to avoid risks and negative side effects. Speak with a medical professional before supplementing as fish oil is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Amount
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, healthy adults may receive enough fish oil by simply eating fish twice a week instead of taking a supplement. Choose fatty fish such as salmon, herring and lake trout that contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. If you suffer from coronary heart disease, the American Heart Association recommends 1 g of fish oil per day. People with high cholesterol levels are recommended to take 2 g of fish oil. Taking 3 g or more of fish oil is not suggested unless approved by a medical professional due to possible complications. There is not a recommended dose for children and teenagers.
Benefits
Fish oil decreases cholesterol levels, irregular heart rhythm and slightly lowers blood pressure. The supplement reduces triglyceride levels in the blood, which are associated with high cholesterol levels. According to Medline Plus, some medical professionals believe fish oil may reduce levels by up to 50 percent. Taking fish oil is likely effective for preventing heart attacks and the risk of heart disease. Fish oil is possibly effective when treating osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis and atherosclerosis.
Side Effects
The most common side effect of the supplement is fishy breath. Freezing the supplement decreases the side effect because the fish oil is slowly released in your body. Fish oil is a natural blood thinner and may cause additional bleeding or prevent blood from clotting. You may suffer from nosebleeds, bruises or more severe internal bleeding. Be cautious when taking fish oil in combination with anticoagulant medications.
Warnings
Though fish oil has a variety of positive uses, some people should not take the supplement. According to Harvard Publications, patient with severe forms of heart disease and irregular heart rhythm may actually exacerbate their conditions when taking the supplement. High doses of fish oil may also decrease the body's immune system. People with disorders affecting the body's inability to fight off infection, such as HIV/AIDS, or the elderly, should discuss the side effects of the supplement with a medical doctor.
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