How Much Fish Oil Is Too Much?
Fish oil is a dietary supplement that delivers omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce cholesterol, relieve depression, increase attention span and protect heart health. While fish oil manufacturers recommend different doses, no industry-wide guidelines exist to prevent you from taking too much.
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Limits
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The Food and Drug Administration has not recommended a daily dose of omega-3 as of mid 2009; however, it does state that you should not exceed 3,000mg a day of fish oil.
Some organizations--including researchers who published a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition--recommend a dose of fish oil that is higher than 3,000mg for individuals suffering from lupus and arthritis. If you suffer from one of these conditions and believe a dose that is higher than 3,000mg would help your condition, consult your doctor.
Recommendations
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According to the American Heart Association, you should consume two 4-oz. servings of fish, or between 2,000 to 3,000mg of fish oil, per week. Sardines, Atlantic salmon and herring contain the greatest amount of omega-3 oil per serving, according to The Power of Fish.
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Types
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Fish oils are most commonly sold in capsule form, but oils are also available. Cod liver oil is a type of fish oil that offers equivalent omega-3 benefits plus a significant dose of Vitamin D. Omega-3 fatty acids are created as a byproduct of the fish's algae diet, and oilier fishes naturally contain more oil than lean fishes. Vegetarians looking for the health benefits of omega-3 acids can get capsules made from algae and still receive the health benefits of fish oil.
Benefits
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Fish oil mitigates symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children by providing a boost of omega-3 acids that have long been known to aid problem solving and concentration, according to Additude Magazine. Fish oil also lessens the rate of breast, colon and prostate cancers by stopping the transformation of healthy cells into cancerous ones and aiding in the death of cancer cells. Additional benefits of daily fish oil include easing joint pain for sufferers of lupus, arthritis and other diseases.
Future
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The International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids (ISSFAL) is comprised of a team of researchers trying to codify the benefits and dose range of fish oil, among other fatty acids. With more than 500 members, ISSFAL is nearing its 20th anniversary. The organization has made many contributions to the wide acceptance of fish oil supplements and continues to contribute to research developments.
Warnings
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There are health risks associated with taking too much fish oil. High doses of fish oil can thin blood, leading to reduced blood pressure, which can be dangerous for those who already have low blood pressure. Excess thinning of the blood also impacts the blood's ability to clot in case of injury.
If you have bad breath, fish-odor burps, loose stool or upset stomachs, you might be taking too much fish oil and should lower your dose.
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