How Much Omega-3 Fish Oil Can Be Taken Daily?

Posted on Fri, 13 Sep 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 13 Sep 2013 Answered on

Fri, 4 Oct 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : how much omega-3 fish oil can be taken daily?[DHA and EPA]

Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
the dose may vary

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid.

The American heart association (AHA) has guidelines regarding the daily use:

(1)NO more than 3 g should be taken from capsules unless directed by a doctor

(2)For a healthy adult with no history of heart disease- the AHA recommends fish consumption at least 2 to 3 times a week because this particular fatty can be found in sardines, tuna, herring, mackerel ,salmon, anchovies

(3)for adults with a history of heart disease- 1 g supplement of EPA and DHA daily. It can take up to 3 weeks for benefits to be noticed

(4)For adults with high cholesterol-2 to 4 g a day (as fish oils), under the care of a doctor

(5) For adults with high blood pressure-3 to 4 g a day (as fish oils), under the care of a doctor.

The reason for the care of a doctor with the higher level is because of the possible risk of bleeding at higher doses.

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any additional questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar