Fish oil has innumerable benefits, and the correct dosage of which can work wonders for your body. Now, if you are wondering how much fish oil should be taken daily, this article will not only answer this question, but also enlighten you about its benefits.
Fish oil, acquired from the tissues of oily fish, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids like EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Omega-3 fatty acids aid critical chemical reactions and contribute to several health aspects, including enhancing immunity. Even if fish is a regular part of your diet, you may not get enough fish oil, since omega-3 fatty acid levels vary from fish to fish. Oily fish like mackerel, herring, sardines, lake trout, tuna and salmon have a higher fish oil content than other fish. Moreover, research says consumption of two fish meals a week, bestows you with the right amount of fish oil required for your body. This does not sound practical, hence, enter fish oil supplements. They are cheap and help you include the required amount of fish oil in your body. Now, the intake of these supplements vary, as regards to your age and the underlying health conditions. But the question is how much fish oil should you take daily? Below is brief explanation about the fish oil dosage.
Fish Oil Dosage
Fish oil supplements are not identical, you will find different manufacturers giving different amounts of EPA and DHA per capsule. The fish oil dosage differs as regards to your age and medical health. Here is a detailed dosage table on that aspect.
| Normal Adults | Minimum dosage of 500mg of EPA and DHA per day recommended. |
| Adults Suffering from Coronary Heart Diseases | Omega-3 oil is said to help curb heart diseases, hence the recommended dosage is double the normal, i.e 1gram of EPA and DHA per day. |
| Adults with High Levels of Triglycerides | Omega-3 is very effective in lowering the triglycerides levels, recommended dosage is 2grams of EPA and DHA per day. |
| Children and Teens | Fish oil helps increase concentration and improves vision. One capsule containing 280gm of DHA and 120gm of EPA is recommended. |
| Pregnant and Lactating Women | Pregnant and lactating women need fish oil, since it increases the levels of DHA in the fetal brain and for better development of the baby. Therefore, at least 200mg of DHA should be consumed daily. |
Fish Oil Benefits
Fish oil treats many diseases and disorders. Intake of proper EPA and DHA keeps the heart healthy and strong. They slow down the artery hardening process, and hence help prevent heart conditions like attacks, strokes, etc. Omega-3 is also very effective, when it comes to lowering the levels of triglycerides.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a disorder affecting kids, where they cannot concentrate for long periods of time or cannot focus on a particular task. Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial in tackling this problem. Fish oil is also helpful in treating kids suffering from dyslexia and other compulsive disorders. Inclusion of fish oil supplements in the diet of pregnant women, helps in developing the brain of the fetus and increases the level of intelligence in an unborn child.
Moreover, omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA are beneficial to prevent or cure illness such as Alzheimer, depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Omega-3 fatty acids along with the prescribed drugs help to regulate the moods of those suffering from above illnesses.
Arthritis pain is caused due to swelling in the joints and fish oil is very effective in battling the inflammation, therefore reducing pain. Omega-3 has shown to reduce visual impairment and improves dry eyes for better sight. Omega-3 fatty acids also improves blood circulation in the body.
Most cosmetics used, have a small portion of fish oil in them. Fish oil boosts the production of collagen and elastin, revitalizing aging cells, and resulting in youthful and vibrant skin. Due to this, it slows down the aging process. Fish oil along with a good diet and exercise regime, also aids hair growth.
Now, having talked so much about the benefits of fish oil, you would ask how much fish oil should I take for ADHD, or for skin health. The table below will give you a brief idea as to how much fish oil should you consume with respect to various disorders.
| Disorder | Dosage |
| Asthma | 3 grams per day |
| Cancer | 2.5 grams per day |
| Crohn’s Disease | 4 grams per day |
| Diabetes | 5 grams per day |
| Angina | 4 grams per day |
| Eczema | 3 grams per day |
| Gout | 3 grams per day |
| Rheumatoid Arthritis | 4 grams per day |
| High Blood Pressure | 3 grams per day |
| Endometriosis | 3 grams per day |
| ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) | 4 grams per day |
| Dry Eyes | 3 grams per day |
| Skin Health | 1 gram daily with food |
| Aging | 1 gram daily |
Companies manufacturing fish oil supplements publish a certificate analysis regularly to help you choose the best supplements. Do not worry about fish contamination affecting fish oil supplement quality. All manufactures undergo a decontamination process to do away with any toxins present, making them safe for consumption. However, the best way of fish oil consumption would be to include fish in your daily diet. For vegetarians, including black current oil, krill oil or seven seas vegetarian omega-3, are the best substitutes to fish oil. Intake of fish oil definitely ensures good and long-term health of the body and mind!
