Daily Maximum Mg Amount Of Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids are compounds essential for the proper development and function of the neurological system. Scientific research also indicates that omega-3 fatty acids may help decrease cholesterol levels, control blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The body cannot synthesize omega-3 fatty acids; instead, there are two primary ways you can consume them -- through fish oil supplementation or by eating omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish. There is no recommended daily allowance for omega-3 fatty acid consumption, but studies indicate that you should not exceed 3 g of the fatty acids daily. Speak to your doctor before increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids since there are a number of possible side effects and dangers.

Recommended Dosage

According to a 2004 review of omega-3 fatty acid studies published in "American Family Physician," different maximum daily dosages of the fatty acids are considered safe and effective for different conditions. The review agrees with the American Heart Association's recommendation that people who do not suffer from coronary heart disease should eat two 3.5-oz. servings of omega-3-rich fish to obtain between 400 mg and 1 g of the two healthiest omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, or eicosapentaenoic acid, and DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid. People with heart disease are advised to consume one serving of fatty fish daily in addition to taking 1 g of both DHA and EPA. In 2002, the medical journal "Circulation" reported that 2 to 4 g daily of omega-3 fatty acid supplements are needed to be effective in the treatment of high cholesterol and rheumatoid arthritis. Do not take omega-3 fatty acid supplements unless you are under the direction and supervision of a doctor.

Possible Side Effects

Consuming more than 3 g of omega-3 fatty acids -- whether from fish oil supplements or by eating large amounts of fatty acid-rich fish -- can cause a number of mild side effects, including heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, bloating, nosebleeds and rashes. In some cases, it can cause far more serious side effects, such as suppression of immune system activity and a decrease in the blood's ability to clot. Omega-3 fatty acid consumption may also exacerbate the symptoms of diabetes, depression and bipolar disorder and can interfere with orlistat, anti-coagulant drugs, certain birth control pills and blood pressure-lowering medications.

Supplements vs. Fresh Fish

The American Heart Association advises you to fill your omega-3 fatty acid needs by eating fish, not by relying on fish oil supplements. The best fish sources of EPA and DHA are salmon, pollock, albacore tuna, lake trout, herring, flounder, swordfish, shark, tilefish and sole. If you do choose to take a fish oil supplement instead, experts from the University of Massachusetts Medical School advise consuming 800 to 1,000 mg daily. Be aware, however, that fish oil supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and are not checked for purity, safety or effectiveness.

Considerations

Many of the fish that contain the highest concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids also contain high concentrations of mercury. These fish include shark, tilefish, mackerel, swordfish and albacore tuna. The U.S. Department of Agriculture advises pregnant women and young children to avoid these fish and consume up to 12 oz. weekly of lower-mercury, fatty acid-rich fish like canned light tuna, pollock and salmon to fill their omega-3 fatty acid needs.