According to the National Institutes of Health, practitioners may recommend fish oil as a treatment for dozens of cardiovascular, neurological, psychological and inflammatory diseases. Unfortunately, researchers have not yet reached a consensus regarding the safest, most effective dose of fish oil. The primary active compounds in fish oil are the omega-3 fats docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA); practitioners generally recommend a dose based on the total amount of both compounds.The ideal dose may depend on a person's age, medical history and diet.
300- 500 Milligrams
According to the US National Institutes of Health, the World Health Organization recommends a daily dose of 300 to 500 mg of DHA and EPA--the two omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil--for healthy adults.
1,000 Milligrams
The American Heart Association recommends a daily intake of 1,000 mg DHA and EPA for people with coronary heart disease. That amount is also a common recommendation for women who are pregnant or nursing.
2,000- 4,000 Milligrams
People with certain medical conditions--including arthritis, hypertriglyceridema and depression--may require 2 to 4 grams of DHA and EPA each day. The American Heart Association recommends that people with high triglyceride levels take this amount each day under a doctor's supervision.
5000 Milligrams or More
Some practitioners may recommend a daily DHA/EPA intake of 5 grams or more; however, these doses should only be used under a doctor's guidance. Side effects are very common at high doses and may include stamping, diarrhea, nausea, reflux and vomiting. The National Institutes of Health warn that fish oil doses in excess of 15 grams per day may increase the risk of a hemorrhagic stroke.
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