Fish Oil Dosage (Cont.)

 

Fish Oil for Heart Disease Prevention

The AHA does not recommend fish oil supplements for people who do not have a diagnosis of heart disease or high triglycerides. Instead, the AHA recommends that people eat a variety of fish at least twice a week. Oily fish (such as salmon or trout) are preferred over non-oily fish (such as cod or halibut), as non-oily fish are low in omega-3 fatty acids. If you do not like fish and want to try a fish oil supplement, it is a good idea to check with your healthcare provider first.
 

General Dosing Information for Fish Oil

Considerations for people taking fish oil include the following:
 
  • Because the manufacturing of supplements (such fish oil) is not closely regulated, it is important to choose a trustworthy manufacturer for fish oil supplements. It is a good idea to look for the "USP" symbol, as this means that the supplement has been tested and contains the right ingredients in the right amounts.
     
  • Some fish (and therefore some fish oil supplements) contain heavy metals and other toxins. Often, fish oil supplements are purified in order to remove these toxins. Make sure to choose a fish oil supplement from a reputable manufacturer. Your pharmacist can help you choose a good fish oil supplement.
     
  • Some people find that storing their fish oil supplement in the freezer helps prevent some of the bothersome side effects (such as a fishy aftertaste). This may also prevent fish oil supplements from becoming rancid.
     
  • If you have any chronic health problems or take any prescription medications, it is a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before taking fish oil.
     
  • If you are unsure about anything related to your dosage or fish oil in general, please talk with your healthcare provider.
     

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;