You have read or heard about the amazing benefits of omega 3 and have decide to take advance of this natural supplement. You have also read that fish oil contains two of the most beneficial omega 3 fatty acids; docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) but are a little lost as to exactly how much you have to consume to get those great health benefits such as protection against heart attack, stroke, and inflammation. In this informational article we will walk through some common general guidelines which should help you determine the best path for your particular situation. Of course it is always important to talk with your doctor about dosage, particularly is you have an underlying health condition, are on prescription medications or are pregnant.
How much fish oil should I take is somewhat fuzzy
Vitamins You Should Take Daily
Omega 3 fatty acids are essential for good health and makeup about 60% of our brains mass. Ironically, they cannot be manufactured by the body. Also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids these omega 3 fatty acids play a critical role in brain function as well as normal growth and development. So supplementation through food or tablets just makes good common sense for most people.
How much to take should be based more on the amount of DHA and EPA consumed rather than the quantity, always keeping in mind that high the quality supplements tend to have higher concentrations of DHA and EPA per capsule. A common amount of omega 3 fatty acids in fish oil capsules is 0.18 grams (180 mg) or EPA and 0.12 grams (120 mg) of DHA. Five grams of fish oil contains approximately 0.17 - 0.56 grams (170 - 560 mg) of EPA and 0.072 - 0.31 grams (72 - 310 mg) of DHA. It is also important to point out that different types of fish tend to contain different levels of omega 3 fatty acids with hoki, salmon, sardines, and halibut being some of the richer sources. Next look at what the American Heart Association (AHA) has to say about dosage in relation to heart disease and cholesterol.
*Healthy adults with no history of heart disease: The AHA recommends eating fish at least 2 times per week.
*Adults with coronary artery disease: The AHA recommends an omega 3 fatty acid fish oil supplement containing 1 gram of EPA and DHA daily. Expect 2 to 3 weeks for the benefits to be seen.
*For adults with high cholesterol levels: The AHA recommends omega 3 fatty acid fish oil supplementation containing 2 to 4 grams daily of EPA and DHA. Expect 2 to 3 weeks for the benefits to be seen.
How much is too much?
It is hard to say exactly where the line should be drawn but what we do know is that high doses are generally considered to be safe in healthy people who are not pregnant, on blood thinning medications or have hemophilia. Most of the clinical studies trying to determine whether high dose consumption could produce health risks have used about 4000 mg of fish oil per day.
In summary, the question as to how much fish oil I should take is one without too many firm guidelines due to its gentle nature and lack of side effects. We also have learned that the best fish oil supplements contain higher levels of DHA and EPA thus less can be taken to achieve the same results as compared to lower priced less concentrated brands. It is also important to point out that sometimes fish harvested from polluted waters or poorly purified omega 3 supplements can contain high levels of mercury or other heavy metals. So be aware of this is you are considering a high dosage regime.
Special Price!!! NOW Foods Vitamin D3 5000 Iu, 120-Softgels
Nov 09, 2011 02:52:28
Click for larger image and other views
NOW Foods Vitamin D3 5000 Iu, 120-Softgels Feature
- Structural Support - 5,000 IU Highest Potency
- Helps Maintain Strong Bones
- Supports Dental Health*
NOW Foods Vitamin D3 5000 Iu, 120-Softgels Overview
NOW® Vitamin D softgels supply this key vitamin in a highly-absorbable liquid softgel form. Vitamin D is normally obtained from the diet or produced by the skin from the ultra-violet energy of the sun. However, it is not abundant in food. As more people avoid sun exposure, Vitamin D supplementation becomes even more necessary to ensure that your body receives an adequate supply.SAVE NOW on the special offers below!
Available In Stock. |
| This NOW Foods Vitamin D3 5000 Iu, 120-Softgels ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping. |
Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please. |
