Who should take a fish oil supplement?
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Stacy Wiegman answered:People who find it difficult to eat fish regularly may want to consider taking a fish oil supplement. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that all adults try to eat two fish meals a week, preferably meals that include fatty fish such as salmon. On top of that, the AHA recommends that people with heart disease or certain risk factors talk to their doctors about taking fish oil supplements.
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates fish oil supplements as "likely effective" for keeping people with healthy hearts free of heart disease. Taking fish oil supplements is particularly effective at lowering high triglyceride levels, a risk factor for heart disease. Don't take more than 3 grams a day without talking to your doctor, however. If you have a medical condition or are taking prescription medications, check with your doctor first to make sure fish oil supplements are safe for you.
People who find it difficult to eat fish regularly may want to consider taking a fish oil supplement. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that all adults try to eat two fish meals a week, preferably meals that include fatty fish... More -
If you eat enough foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, you may not need to take a fish oil supplement. If your dietitian or healthcare provider has recommended taking omega-3 fatty acids, be sure your supplement contains the amounts he or she recommends. To figure the total amount of omega-3 fatty acids in the supplement, add the grams of EPA and DHA together.If you eat enough foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, you may not need to take a fish oil supplement. If your dietitian or healthcare provider has recommended taking omega-3 fatty acids, be sure your supplement contains the amounts he or she... More -
Jessica Crandall of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics answered:A fish oil supplement can be an excellent addition to any healthy diet. However, some people have an increased need to supplement their omega-3 and omega-6's. Individuals with cardiac disease, high triglycerides, and high cholesterol may benefit from a fish oil supplement. Fish oil has also been shown to help those with arthritis, auto-immune disorders, inflammation, and mental health. The World Health Organization recommends starting dosages of fish oil at 300-500 mg per day.
A fish oil supplement can be an excellent addition to any healthy diet. However, some people have an increased need to supplement their omega-3 and omega-6's. Individuals with cardiac disease, high triglycerides, and high cholesterol may benefit... More -
Marilyn Ricci, M.S., R.D. answered:Fish oil supplements have been proven to be helpful for those living with depression. It is necessary to talk with your psychiatrist before adding fish oil to your treatment plan. Although, fish oil has not been shown to be an added benefit in schizophrenia, those living with schizophrenia are more likely to die 25 years earlier than the general public, usually due to metabolic syndrome. Since omega 3's (in fish oil) are recommended by the American Heart Association (eat fatty fish 3 times a week), it makes sense for those living with schizophrenia to discuss fish oil supplements with their treatment team to help prevent cardiovascular disease.Fish oil supplements have been proven to be helpful for those living with depression. It is necessary to talk with your psychiatrist before adding fish oil to your treatment plan. Although, fish oil has not been... More
