Fish oil is a dietary supplement that provides a variety of critical nutrients. Omega-3 fatty acids are the main ingredient in fish oil and these fatty acids are essential for numerous processes within the body. In most cases you obtain enough omega-3 in your diet, but some people may need to take supplements. Always consult a physician prior to taking fish oil so that you will know the proper dosage.
Fish Oil Uses
Fish oil is most effective in lowering triglyceride levels and reducing your risk of heart disease, MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health reports. Elevated triglyceride levels are directly related to serious diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Typically, physicians recommend regular physical activity and a healthy diet to reduce triglyceride levels. In some cases, they may prescribe medicines that reduce fat levels. Fish oil, though not as effective as more powerful medications, is able to cause a 20 to 50 percent drop in triglyceride levels. Fish oil has been shown to reduce the chances of dying from heart disease and complications associated with heart attacks.
Proper Dosage
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids: EPA and DHA. The proper dosage of fish oil is determined by the amount of these omega-3 acids contained with the supplement. For adults, the recommend dosage is up to 3 g per day, according MayoClinic.com. Doses larger than that should only be taken while under the supervision of health care professional. Children 18 years or younger usually do not need fish oil supplements. There is no evidence that children of this age benefit from fish oil and therefore, should avoid taking the supplement.
When to Take Larger Doses
In some cases, your doctor may prescribe omega-3 in doses greater than 3 g per day. Usually these larger doses are used to treat specific ailments. The most common condition treated with high doses of omega-3 fatty acids is high cholesterol. You doctor may advise you to take up to 4 g of omega-3 fatty acids for a brief period to reduce your cholesterol level. A reduction in cholesterol levels can take up to two to three weeks. However, larger doses increase your risk of suffering from unintended side effects.
Side Effects of High Doses
High doses of fish oil can cause you to develop side effects. One of the most common and most serious side effects is a potential dysfunction in your blood's ability to clot, MedlinePlus warns. If your blood cannot clot, then you can develop significant bleeding. Furthermore, high doses of fish oil, if taken over a long period of time, can impair you immune system and cause an increase in "bad" LDL cholesterol.
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