Omega-3 fatty acids are essential compounds required for several biological functions in your body. Supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids are used to treat a wide variety of health conditions, including lowering levels of triglycerides in your blood. Different doses of omega-3 fatty acids have been used to treat elevated triglyceride levels, and researchers are still in the process of determining the most effective dose. As with any health supplement, you should consult your doctor before taking omega-3 fatty acids.
Dose of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved a health supplement called Lovaza for lowering triglyceride levels. Lovaza is derived from fish oil, and each capsule of Lovaza contains a total of 840 mg of omega-3 fatty acids. Daily doses of Lovaza have been shown to be effective in lowering triglyceride levels by 20 to 50 percent, reports MedlinePlus.
Type of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Different types of omega-3 fatty acids have different effects on the body. The most effective omega-3 fatty acids are those found in fish, which are called eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA. Lovaza contains 465 mg of EPA and 375 mg of DHA. Flaxseeds contain a different type of omega-3 fatty acid, called alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA, which may not be as effective in lowering triglyceride levels, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University.
Other Sources
Most fish oil supplements contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Check the labels of supplements when choosing between different types of fish oil to find the supplement with the highest levels of EPA and DHA. In addition to fish oil supplements, eating fish also provides high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. The American Heart Association recommends eating two 3-oz. portions of fish each week. Fatty fishes that live in cold water, such as salmon, mackerel and herring, contain the highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
Maximum Dose
Omega-3 fatty acid and fish oil supplements are generally safe, although they may cause minor side effects, especially when taken in large doses. For most people, doses of fish oil less than 3 g per day rarely cause side effects, according to MedlinePlus. Doses larger than 3 g per day should only be taken under the close supervision of a professional health care provider.
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