Fish Oil

Dosage of Fish Oil

Fish Oil Dosage

There is no single fish oil dosage that is appropriate for everyone. The useful amount depends on why omega-3s are being consumed, how much EPA and DHA a person already obtains from food, the concentration of the supplement and whether it is being used as ordinary nutrition or as part of medical treatment.

It is also important to distinguish the total quantity of fish oil from the amount of EPA and DHA it contains.

Fish Oil Is Not the Same as EPA + DHA

A capsule labeled “1,000 mg fish oil” does not necessarily provide 1,000 mg of EPA and DHA. A conventional capsule may contain approximately 180 mg EPA and 120 mg DHA, while concentrated supplements can provide much higher amounts.

Always check the supplement facts label for the actual quantity of EPA and DHA per serving.

Omega-3s From Food

For people who are generally healthy, dietary recommendations emphasize eating fish rather than taking a specific universal dose of fish oil supplements.

The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of fish per week, particularly fatty fish. Fish provides EPA and DHA together with protein and other nutrients that are not supplied by a fish oil capsule.

Fish Oil for High Triglycerides

High-dose omega-3 fatty acids can reduce elevated triglycerides, but this is a medical use rather than ordinary nutritional supplementation.

The American Heart Association has concluded that 4 grams per day of prescription omega-3 fatty acids can effectively lower triglycerides in people with elevated levels. Prescription products provide standardized amounts of EPA, or EPA together with DHA, and should not be replaced by taking an arbitrary number of over-the-counter fish oil capsules.

Anyone considering high-dose omega-3s for triglyceride treatment should do so with medical supervision.

Fish Oil and Cardiovascular Disease

Recommendations for people with existing cardiovascular disease differ from recommendations for healthy people, and evidence has evolved over time. Omega-3 supplements are not routinely recommended to everyone as a method of preventing heart disease.

For individuals with coronary heart disease, dietary fish remains an important source of EPA and DHA. Decisions about supplemental or prescription omega-3 products should take the person’s cardiovascular history, medications and triglyceride levels into account.

How Much Is Too Much?

The FDA has concluded that dietary supplements providing up to 5 grams per day of EPA and DHA are safe when used as recommended, but that should not be interpreted as a recommended daily target.

Several trials using around 4 grams per day for years found a small increase in atrial fibrillation among people with cardiovascular disease or a high risk of cardiovascular disease. Therapeutic doses therefore deserve more care than routine low-dose supplementation.

Check the Label

When comparing products, look for:

  • EPA per serving
  • DHA per serving
  • number of capsules required for one serving
  • other omega-3 fatty acids
  • added vitamins, particularly in cod liver oil

For a detailed review of omega-3 intake, supplement forms and safety, see the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements omega-3 fact sheet.

This page provides general nutritional information. Therapeutic doses of omega-3 fatty acids should be discussed with a healthcare professional.