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How Much Fish Oil Should You Really Be Taking?
June 01, 2023
There is a whirlwind of information surrounding the topic of fish oil and its various health benefits. From improved cardiovascular health to the reduction of chronic inflammation and treatment of neurological diseases, there’s little that fish oil can’t do. However, in the melee of marketing and misinformation, many have been left asking the same question: How much fish oil should I really be taking?

Before diving headlong into this question, it’s crucial to understand that not all fish oils are created equal. Much like the quality difference between a beautifully grilled salmon fillet and a questionable fish stick, there’s a wide range of fish oils available on the market.

Understanding Fish Oil Quality
Many fish oil products are in ethyl ester form, which, unfortunately, has poor bioavailability and stability. This is primarily due to the processing methods used to extract and concentrate the fish oil. During this process, the natural triglyceride structure of the fish oil is converted into ethyl esters, which are less stable and less easily absorbed by the body.

Moreover, many fish oils on the market may be rancid by the time they reach the consumer due to improper storage or overlong shelf-life. Rancid oils are not only unpleasant to consume, but they can also potentially have negative health effects.

To ensure you’re getting a high-quality fish oil supplement, look for products in triglyceride form or re-esterified triglyceride form. These forms are more similar to the natural structure of fish oil, making them more stable and bioavailable.

Dosage Recommendations
For general health maintenance: 2.5g/day For improved cardiovascular health: 2.5-5g/day For the reduction of chronic inflammation: 5-10g/day For treating neurological diseases: 10-25g/day.

It’s important to note that these dosages refer to the amount of EPA and DHA, the two key omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, not the total fish oil amount.

Supporting Studies:
One of the leading studies supporting the benefits of high-dose fish oil is the REDUCE-IT study. This trial found that patients at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease experienced a 25% reduction in the risk of major cardiovascular events when taking 4g/day of icosapent ethyl (a type of fish oil) compared to a placebo. This clearly showcases the potential of high-dose fish oil in supporting cardiovascular health.

As for neurological diseases, a study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that high doses of fish oil (up to 9.6g/day) could help reduce symptoms of major depression and other psychological disorders. However, more research is needed in this area, especially for the higher end of the dosage scale (10-25g/day).

Remember, the right dosage for you may vary depending on your health status, diet, and other factors.

Navigating the world of fish oil can seem like a daunting task, but with a bit of knowledge and understanding, you can make the most out of this powerful supplement. Remember, the key is quality over quantity, and when it comes to dosage, more isn’t always better. Tailor your intake to your needs and always choose a high-quality product to ensure the best results.