Fish oil supplements are primarily known for their high content of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are essential for heart health and other bodily functions¹². Here are some key benefits and considerations:

Benefits of Fish Oil:

1. Cardiovascular Health:

   • Fish oil can reduce triglyceride levels, lower blood pressure, and increase HDL ("good") cholesterol².
   • It may reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events³.

2. Inflammation and Joint Health:

   • Omega-3s from fish oil have anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit individuals with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis⁴.

3. Brain Function:

   • DHA is a major structural component of the brain and retina, and adequate intake is essential for cognitive function and mental health⁵⁶.
   • Fish oil supplements can support brain health throughout life, and there is evidence suggesting benefits for conditions such as Alzheimer's disease⁷.

4. Pregnancy and Infant Development:

   • Essential for fetal development, including neuronal and retinal development⁷.

Considerations:

1. Dietary Sources vs. Supplements:
   • While supplementation is beneficial, obtaining omega-3s through dietary sources such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel) is generally recommended⁸.
2. Dosage:
   • For general cardiovascular health, the American Heart Association recommends 1 gram per day of combined EPA and DHA, preferably from consuming oily fish⁹.
   • For individuals with high triglyceride levels, higher doses (up to 4 grams per day) may be prescribed under medical supervision⁹.
3. Possible Side Effects:
   • Some people may experience bad breath, heartburn, or digestive upset. High doses of fish oil can increase the risk of bleeding¹⁰.

Population-specific Benefits:

• Individuals who do not consume enough fish, certain ethnic groups (e.g., African Americans), and those with high triglyceride levels can benefit more significantly from fish oil supplements¹¹.

Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Footnotes

1. Mayo Clinic Minute: Figuring out fish oil ↩

2. Primary Care in Rochester and Kasson ↩ ↩²

3. The Effects of Fish Oil on Cardiovascular Diseases ↩

4. CMAJ Fact Sheet: Fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids ↩

5. Effects of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Brain Functions ↩

6. Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Benefits and Endpoints in Sport ↩

7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids EPA and DHA: Health Benefits Throughout Life ↩ ↩²

8. Fish oil supplements, longevity and aging ↩

9. Primary Care in Rochester and Kasson ↩ ↩²

10. Health benefits and potential risks related to consumption of fish or fish oil ↩

11. Primary Care in Rochester and Kasson ↩