What is the recommended omega 3 dose per day?

Salmon is a good source of omega 3 fatty acids.

Omega 3 fatty acids are good for the heart, whether a person has a healthy heart or cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association (AHA) generally recommends that people eat fish at least twice a week.

Dosage for Healthy Hearts

The AHA recommends that people with no coronary heart disease eat fish, especially fatty fish, two or more times a week. Fatty fish like mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna and salmon are the best source of omega 3 fatty acids. The diet should also include plant-derived sources of omega 3.

Dosage for Heart Disease

For people who have coronary heart disease, the AHA recommends a diet that includes about one gram of omega 3 fatty acids each day. Fatty fish are the preferred source of omega 3 (or in capsule form under the direction of a doctor).

Dosage to Lower Triglycerides

The AHA recommends that people who need to lower triglycerides should take two to four grams of omega 3 fatty acids in capsule form a day. This should be done under the direction of a doctor.

Omega 3 in Other Foods

Tofu, flaxseed, walnuts, and oils like flaxseed, soybean, or canola are good sources of alpha-linolenic acid (LNA). The LNA becomes omega 3 fatty acid in the body.

Warning

Tofu is a good source of omega 3 fatty acids.

Because fish can contain contaminants like mercury, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that young children and pregnant or nursing women limit their intake of fresh fish. For more information visit the FDA's Food Safety website or call (888) SAFEFOOD.

References

• American Heart Association
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Resources

• Mayo Clinic