Fish oil contains a rich store of omega-3 fatty acids. They are probably most commonly associated with promoting heart health in various ways, but they might offer therapeutic benefits for numerous other conditions as well. The dosage required to achieve therapeutic benefits varies widely depending on the condition being treated, and for this reason, you must consult with your doctor about an appropriate dose.
Doses and Fish Oil Safety
MedlinePlus, an information service of the National Institutes of Health, states that doses of 3 g daily appear generally safe "for most people, including pregnant and breastfeeding women.'' Many conditions appear to require doses higher -- sometimes much higher -- than this, and some safety concerns exist with doses beyond 3 g, such as increased risk of bleeding and decreased immunity. Like drugs, natural supplements carry a risk of side effects. It is imperative to only use high doses of fish oil under the supervision of your doctor, who can monitor you for any adverse reactions.
Doses for Heart-Related Conditions
The University of Michigan Health System notes the following doses were used in studies examining the effects of fish oil on various heart-related conditions: high triglycerides: 3 g; hypertension: 3 to 15 g; atherosclerosis: 3 to 6 g; congestive heart failure: 850 to 882 mg; reducing risk of second heart attack: 850 to 1,700 mg.
Doses for Other Conditions
Fish oil has been tested for an eclectic mix of conditions including skin diseases, mental disorders, kidney health and diabetes to name a few. The University of Michigan Health System and MedlinePlus note the following doses used in clinical trials for the following conditions: depression: 9.6 g; slowing weight loss in cancer patients: 7.5 g; preserving kidney function: 4 to 8 g; multiple sclerosis: 6 to 20 g; epilepsy: 3.25 g; Crohn's disease: 2.7 g; asthma: 300 mg; anxiety: 3 g; lupus: 20 g.
This does not constitute an exhaustive list of the potential therapeutic applications for fish oil. As you can see, the suggested doses differ greatly depending on the reason for use, which underscores the importance of consulting with your doctor for guidance on an appropriate amount to take. Failure to do so could lead to an unsuccessful attempt to treat your condition because you are not taking enough, or an increased risk of adverse effects because you are taking more than you need.
Other Considerations for Use
Do not use fish oil in any dosage without talking to your doctor first if you take blood-thinning medications. Its effects on blood pressure might also necessitate dosage adjustments in antihypertensive medications -- only your doctor can determine this change. Fish oil appears to lower vitamin E levels; ask your doctor about whether or not you should use a supplement while using fish oil. In higher doses, fish oil might actually increase cholesterol levels, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
Member Comments