Yes, it’s good for your heart. But you already knew that.
But did you know that there are other PROVEN benefits of fish oil?
Before we get into the benefits of fish oil, it is really important to remember that it’s not the fish oil that counts…it’s the amount of Omega-3 in the fish oil pills that makes a difference.
What does that mean? Well, there are two main types of Omega-3 in fish oil. EPA and DHA.
Regular fish oil pills from drug or grocery stores have about 300 mg of Omega-3.
That’s not enough.
To feel the real benefits of fish oil, you will need a lot more than 300 mg per day.
Scientifically Proven Benefits of Fish Oil
Benefits of Fish Oil #1: Mood Support*
Fish oil may help you fight the blues.*
Research suggests that improving omega-3 fat intake from a concentrated source may help support a healthy mood. Some, but not all studies, indicate that 2,000 mg of omega-3 fats daily may offer benefit.
Research suggests that omega-3 supplements with a higher concentration of EPA may offer distinct support for mood health.
Fish oil dosage needed to see benefit: 1200 mg high-EPA Omega-3 per day when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Benefits of Fish Oil #2: Joint Comfort*
Omega-3 found in fish oil improves joint comfort and occasional aches. If you take Aspirin or Ibuprofen for your joints, talk to your doctor about adding fish oil to your regimen.
Why? Because the newest research shows that fish oil combined with a healthy diet and exercise may work well in conjunction with many prescription medication.
But scientists are just getting the hang of how this happens.
Researchers Harvard Medical School showed that the body converts Omega-3 into joint-protective compounds. These compounds are called Resolvins and are 10,000 times stronger than the original Omega-3.
Resolvins help stop occasional aches and pains. Resolvins work by naturally slowing the production of certain chemicals to your joints.
Fish oil dosage needed to see benefit: 2000 mg Omega-3 per day when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan.*
Scientific publications on: Resolvins, Omega-3 & Joint Health, Additional benefits of Omega-3, and More on Omega-3
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Benefits of Fish Oil #3: Healthy Metabolism*
Fish oil may help with the battle of the bulge.
There are two types of Omega fats. Omega-3 and Omega-6.
Omega-3 are unlikely to be stored as body fat. Omega-3 are put to work (oxidized) right away – they get burned as energy or they get built into our cell walls. So it is very difficult to gain weight by consuming recommended doses Omega-3.
Omega-6 on the other hand, are “slow fats.” They are stored for a rainy day. Stored in your hips, thighs and love handles. Bears load up on Omega-6 fats to plump up before they go into hibernation because Omega-6 fats get stored as body fat.
So if you’re cooking with Omega-6 rich corn oil, soy oil (misleadingly sold as ‘vegetable oil’), sunflower oil or safflower oil, exchange it for Canola oil. Toss out any foods and snacks made from these Omega-6 rich oils as well. Replace those foods with those made with Canola or Olive oils.
And now add Omega-3 into your diet. This is one of the least known benefits of fish oil.
Fish oil dosage needed to see benefit: 3000 mg Omega-3 per day, combined with a healthy diet and daily exercise plan.*
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Benefits of Fish Oil #4: Healthy Triglyceride Levels*
Heart health is one of the most recognized benefits of fish oil. Most people focus on cholesterol. Fish oil does not reduce cholesterol.
But where fish oil really helps is with maintaining healthy triglyceride levels when used as a part of a healthy diet and exercise plan. Everyone has triglycerides in their blood, but high amounts should be monitored by your doctor.
Fish oil dosage needed to see benefit: 3000 mg Omega-3 per day when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Clinical research suggests the omega-3 dosage needed to help maintain healthy triglycerides is 2000-3000 mg per day when used as part of healthy diet and exercise regimen.
Benefits of Fish Oil #5: Healthy Blood Pressure*
Very few people take fish oil to maintain healthy blood pressure.
But more should.
One of the important benefits of fish oil is that the Omega-3 makes your blood vessels healthier.
Several studies have shown Omega-3 when used together with a healthy diet and exercise plan can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine reviewed 17 clinical studies that looked at fish oil & blood pressure.
They found that 3000 mg Omega-3 per day when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan worked better than 2000 mg per day. This was back in 1993 when nobody was talking about benefits of fish oil! Those doctors were ahead of their time.
Read the summary for yourself in the Archives of Internal Medicine.
Fish oil dosage needed to see benefit: 3000 mg per day when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Clinical research suggests the omega-3 dosage needed to help maintain healthy blood pressure is 2000 mg per day when used as part of healthy diet and exercise regimen.
Benefits of Fish Oil #6: Skin & Complexion
Once again, it’s the Omega-3 to Omega-6 balance that provides the real benefit.
Omega-3 is the healing fat of the skin.
Too much Omega-6 fats may make your skin red, puffy and zitty.
Here’s the trick to beautiful skin that late-night infomercials never tell you:
- Reduce Omega-6 fats from your diet
- Increase Omega-3 fats in your diet
Without these two ‘tricks’, no amount of Proactiv or other expensive treatments will really fix the problem. Just taking a fish oil pill will not get rid of zits – you need to cut out Omega-6 fats first – usual culprits are vegetable seed oils, dairy, fried foods, snacks any food that contains corn or soy oils.
A new study published in Clinical Dermatology says that there are several skin-related benefits of fish oil:
- Maintaining skin permeability
- Reducing redness
- Reducing skin flaking
And the list goes on.
Fish oil dosage needed to see benefit: 3000 mg per day when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
So there you have it.
Six surprising benefits of fish oil. But keep in mind, it’s the Omega-3 that makes the difference.
Consumer Tip:
Don’t buy Omega-3 with 20% or 30% Omega-3. If you do, you will have to pop a dozen of them every day to feel any of reported benefits of fish oil.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Hello, i wanted to know which fish oil capsules available in market are the best..and which is right time in day to consume it..pls guide me
Hi Hemlata – here is a link to help you choose the best fish oil supplements: http://www.omegavia.com/best-fish-oil-supplements/
You can take fish oil at any time, it is best taken with the largest meal of the day. It is not as well absorbed on an empty stomach.
– Vin Kutty
hi.. im 24 years old and my weight is only 36 kg.. does fish oil help to gain weigh?
Hi ej – fish oil can make you generally healthier. But it is not a weight gain agent. My suggestion is to eat a diet that’s exclusively vegetables, meats, eggs, fruits and nuts. Avoid sugar, grains and vegetable oils.
– Vin Kutty
Can Omega3 lighten my skin
Hi Cynthia – no it cannot, but it will help your skin be more supple and soft.
– Vin Kutty
Hi is fish oil can heal the acne.tq
Hi Irene – fish oil can reduce the redness and inflammation associated with acne. If you want to reduce acne, cut out dairy, wheat and sugar and go on a high-veggie paleo diet for a month.
– Vin Kutty
Hello,
I take vitamin B-complex and 400mg alpha lipoic acid daily as a liver detox, will these supplements interrupt the other’s functions if I add 3000mg of fish oil daily?
Hi Kimmy – you can certainly take all three of these supplements together.
– Vin Kutty
What do you think about Kirkland (costco brand) omega 3 fish oil 1000 Mg?
Hi Sarah – Costco carries a good fish oil product (Alaskan fish oil with the blue label) and a couple of OK ones like the Triple Strength fish oils and a few that you should pass up. The 1000 mg oil that you mention is one that I’d pass on.
– Vin Kutty
can the omega 3 in fish oil heal scars and blemishes?
Hi Celinee – I don’t think so.
– Vin Kutty
Does fish oil somewhat lighten dark circles under the eyes?
Hi Asma – I’ve not seen fish oil lighten dark circles under the eyes. This is usually a diet and lifestyle issue with some genetic contribution as well.
– Vin Kutty
Good day! What are the other skin benefits of taking fish oil aside from having a soft and supple skin? I read some articles that it can cause acne especially to those with oily skin. Lastly, what are the other vitamins that can be taken together with fish oil to improve your skin complexion?
Hi Jomar – Omega-3 in fish oil reduces inflammation in the skin. This means less redness. Omega-3 does not cause acne. If you want to prevent acne, eat a Paleo diet that does not contain sugar, grains and dairy. Try it for 2 weeks. A good multivitamin helps, but it won’t help if your diet is high in sugar, grains, dairy and vegetable oils.
– Vin Kutty
is fish oil can be taken without any prescription?
Hi Christopher – yes. Until very recently, all fish oil was non-prescription.
– Vin Kutty
Hi there!, after reading some of the other Q & A’s I’m concerned about my own journey for better benefits of omega’s. I’m vegetarian and just incorporated a daidaily multivit and omega 3 -6. 1200mg. 1, can this regin help with my occassional acne breakouts? 2.
Hi Cori – daily multi and Omega-3 helps. But it will not get rid of acne. For that you need to get rid of sugar, wheat and dairy.
– Vin Kutty
Hello Sir,
I am suffering from skin disease Melasma.. I want to know does the fish oil help me to get rid of Melasma.
Hi Priyanka – I have not seen any evidence for treating melasma with Omega-3 from fish oil. I believe it is mostly genetic.
– Vin Kutty
Will the use of omega3 help reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation? If not, any suggestions on how to reduce?
Thanks!
Hi Jon – I don’t know. My guess is I don’t think Omega-3 helps with PIH. This is a normal and natural reaction to skin ‘issues’ and more likely to happen in persons with darker skin. I don’t know if anyone’s attempted to address this with hydroquinone, but that carries its own risks and not knowing enough about that I can’t recommend it fully.
– Vin Kutty
I just bought Nature Made Fish oil with 1200mg and 720 mg of Omega-3 It says one per day, but you say that it takes up to 3000mg a day to see benefits …that is of the omega 3’s correct? And it says take one per day and not exceed three so should I take three to get the benefits? Would that be safe?
Hi Christian – the dosage you need depends on the health goals you seek. If you’re trying to lower triglycerides, yes, you will need at least 3000 mg of Omega-3 per day. That means 3000 divided by 720 = about 4 pills per day. Their ‘One-per-day’ message is for marketing, to make people happy prior to purchase. If you took just 3, you would still see some benefits, but it’s be lower than what is recommended.
– Vin Kutty
Dear sir,
very nice and useful artical for me. my age is 42/female/ from the birth i have too sensitive skin and my skin easily damages in winter and summer. now a days i am getting too dry skin on my face and getting inflammation redness. i am not using soap on face, i use honey on face later i apply sunscreen spf 15. though am suffering consulted doctor nothing they suggested special. is this omega 3 benefits for my skin? let me know please if possible suggest me some tab for intake .
regards
sree
Hi Sree – yes, certainly try Omega-3. I suspect your diet contains too much Omega-6-rich vegetable oils too. Cut back on that.
– Vin Kutty
dear sir,
thanks for nice advise….i will observe my diet and will try to avoid omega-6 items…
regards
sree.
Will taking fish oil help make scars go away or at least fade faster?
Hi Dave – I have not seen any data that says Omega-3 will reduce scars. Omega-3 definitely keeps your skin healthy, but scars? Not sure. I would guess no.
– Vin Kutty
hi great info!
i want to know about fish oil. i have high bp and taking 3,000mg perday sounds like it may help me. i have fish oil that say 1,000mg and should take 3 pills perday. is it a good idea if i just take 3 pills at one time? or apart just wondering thanks.
Hi Nenad – fish oil can be helpful with blood pressure. But it sounds like you may need a little more Omega-3. A higher potency product would be better. Yes, you can take it all at once instead of spreading it out thru the day.
– Vin Kutty
hi thanks for the info!
i use 1,400mg of fish oil per day. to start off with
hi
i would like to know if fish oil can help whith high BP
it say 3000mg is that gooc? or 4000mg perday.
just wondering thanks!
Hi Nenad – yes, it can help manage blood pressure at 3000 of Omega-3 per day when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan. Blood pressure issues are not to be taken lightly – please work with your doctor for medications. You may take Omega-3 together with medications assuming your doctor is aware and approves.
Hi, nice to see all the benefits of fish oil. I’m actually taking fish oil which contain 1,000mg.
Does it really helps to delay wrinkles? Thank’s
Hi Vina – delay wrinkles? Probably not. But Omega-3 if taken at the right doses, will keep your skin supple and reduce redness and inflammation.
– Vin Kutty
Thank you very much, i will continue to take fish oil daily…
Hi Vin, I’ve noticed that you’ve advised to avoid sugar, grains, dairy, and vegetable oils in certain situations….Do these foods increase inflammation or are they sources of Omega 6? Just curious.
Hi Edna – vegetable oils from seeds (corn, soy, canola, sunflower etc.) are rich sources of Omega-6 fats and these are very inflammatory. I never eat foods made or cooked with these oils. Yes, that means severely restricting eating outside the house. Sugar and grains can exacerbate inflammation too. Dairy won’t bother inflammation as much. If you are not allergic to dairy, some dairy fats like pastured butter or cream is OK for most people.
– Vin Kutty
Hi, I have recently been told by my Doc that i am allergic to Wheat, So i am on a gluten free diet. Someone told me that fish oil can help the swelling to go down in my Stomach, As it is very swollen due to the Allergy?
Hi Kristi – it is a great idea to stay away from wheat even if you are not gluten sensitive. Remember that if you slip up and have one bite of pizza, the gluten in it can stick around for months and make life uncomfortable.
I’ve not tried or heard of anyone using fish oil to reduce ‘stomach swelling.’ So I don’t know if it will help you. However, fish oil will reduce inflammation and help your health in many ways. So no harm in trying.
I agree that fish oil is good for you, it does need to be said that taking fish oils in such high doses can have a effect on your bowels that may not be very comfortable. So I do suggest starting off on a smaller dosage too see what effect it may have on your stomach.
i have high cholesterol and my doctor is now telling me I have high blood pressure 130/72 and copd also says my heart rate is too high.i have had bronchitis for the past few weeks so I assume that would make my blood pressure and heart rate go up. she put me on Norvasc 2.5mg 1 per day. (generic form). I am taking fish oil 300mg 3x day and flaxseed oil with 1000mg omega-3 2x day. would this be better than what my doctor wants me to take? I have read a lot of bad things about Norvasc and its generic form.
Hi Carolyn – I am not a doctor so I legally cannot comment on your diagnosis. But what I can say is that taking fish oil and flax in addition to your current drugs can only help. Omega-3 does not interfere with drugs too much.
Hi there, can fish oil supplements and vitamin e with 1000 IU supplements can be taken at the same time?
Hi Glenn – yes, absolutely!
Hi, I would like to know if by taking Omega 3 1000mg (2 times a day) will cause skin allergies (itch / rash). I had eczema and took Omega 3 to improve my skin condition. But noticed after taking for about 2 weeks, the itchiness got worse.
Hi Josephine – some people have reactions to fish oil and it can be rashes or hives. Usually, if you are allergic to fish oil, you will know very quickly and not after 2 weeks. So I suspect you may have been reacting to something else? Not sure. Still, if you are trying to manage eczema, you need a high-EPA formula. Regular fish oil pills have only about 120 to 160 mg EPA per pill. You are wasting time with the current product. You will need at least 1000 to 2000 mg of EPA per day. I suggest you get a high EPA pharmaceutical grade fish oil. OmegaVia comes to mind! 🙂 But there are several other great options here: http://www.omegavia.com/favorite-fish-oil-brands-part-2/
There is also a strong dietary component – look into a Paleo diet that is low in inflamamtory food products.
Hi,
I’m suffering from dry flaky skin on my face for almost 1 month +. I’ve stopped using make up since then. I’m 21, 45kg – so does fish oil pills really help me? and how much mg must I consume? Thank you.
Hi Mandy – Omega-3 from fish oil could help. But if you’ve only had the dry skin issue for a month or so, I doubt it is Omega-3 deficiency related. I suspect that it is diet or environment related. May be you’re on a low-fat diet – bad idea! Try 1000 mg of Omega-3 for a month or two and if there is no improvement, you may want to check with a dermatologist.
I am using fish oil capsules with vitamin A and E that contain Omega 3 But I recently read things about such fish oil supplements that concerned me a lot and they are: That Fish Oil capsules might cause Colon cancer and might make the body unable for any Chemical therapy. I use Omega 3 fish oil capsules for maintaining better health, skin,hair and I suffer OCD which takes a lot from my skin and ability on doing activities during the day. But now I’m very concerned Cause i have been using fish oil capsules for many months 🙁 Please assure me that I’m not in danger or at risk of anything that has been mentioned in such articles.
Hi yassmeene – there are a lot of ‘articles’ on the internet. If you believe all of them, you will soon be curled up in a fetal position in the corner of a closet! I admit that we’re not above the fray – we’re just another website on the internet. However, there is absolutely no compelling scientific evidence that shows Omega-3 from fish oil specifically causes colon cancer. I cannot assure you that you are not in danger – you may have a genetic predisposition for illness, you may be a smoker, you could be eating a lot of sugar and drinking a lot of juice or soda, you could be avoiding sunlight or not exercising or consuming too much trans-fats. I can go on and on about risks…but taking one or two fish oil pills won’t be the reason why you or anyone reading this gets sick.
Hi! I have a skin condition called Acanthosis Nigricans where the skin fold areas on my body are hyperpigmentated into a brownish black. This skin disorder can also be from being obese or having diabetes, and im sure i dont have diabetes. Im a bit heavy and losing weight has helped lighten the darkness but im wondering if the skin care properties of fish oil will help or speed up my particular situation.
Also, if i am to take 3 pills a day for a total of 900mg of omegas, do i take all 3 in one sitting evenly throught the day?
Many many thanks!
Hi Drake – look into insulin resistance. Talk to your doctor. If your doctor looks at you funny, go to an endocrinologist or an integrative practitioner. Insulin resistance + genetic predisposition is often the reason why this occurs. You may not have diabetes, but you may be insulin resistant. Cutting out all sugar and most starch and regular strenuous exercise will help. You may want to talk to a dietician about trying a sensible low-carb diet for a couple of months: http://www.nourishingbyheart.com
I don’t think Omega-3 will help you with this condition, but it will probably help with you lots of other things. Yes, you can take all 3 pills at one time – with the largest meal of the day.
Hi i’m very thankful to the precious infos that u provided me with, i have a real problem, i want to gain some weight in my lower body, i used to be pearish shaped but now im turning into an apple which is a horror to me.
can omega 6 restore my pearish shape back??
I’m on the other side of the world and craving for an answer from u. thx in advance 🙂
You want to eat more Omega-6 to gain weight? Oh my! Have you not read any of the other blogs on this site?
PS: please don’t!
Hello,
I do have psoriasis in face,scalp and ear. how much mg of fish oil or IU I need daily? I”m taking up dayzinc( ascorbic acid + zinc) and ferrous fumarate +folic acid Suref 60mg/400mcg cap. Will it complicate when i take fish oil and Vitamin B complex?
Thanks!
Hi Rose – you can definitely take Omega-3 along with your current supplement regimen. Mg fish oil is a useless term. What you need to focus on is mg of Omega-3. I suggest you get 1000 to 2000 mg of Omega-3 per day. I also suggest increasing seafood, egg and vegetable consumption and reduce grains. Hope this helps your condition.
Hello,
I do have psoriasis in face,scalp and ear. how much mg of fish oil or IU I need daily? I”m taking up dayzinc( ascorbic acid + zinc) and ferrous fumarate +folic acid Suref 60mg/400mcg cap. Will it complicate when i take fish oil and Vitamin B complex?
Thanks!
Hi Rose – you can definitely take Omega-3 along with your current supplement regimen. Mg fish oil is a useless term. What you need to focus on is mg of Omega-3. I suggest you get 1000 to 2000 mg of Omega-3 per day. I also suggest increasing seafood, egg and vegetable consumption and reduce grains. Hope this helps your condition.
I was diagnosed with diabetes in 2011 and underwent Angioplasty in 1999. I’m 60. My doctor advised me to take Fish Oil 1200 mg, one tablet daily along with Cholestoff 450 mg two tablets daily besides my other medicines. I have been taking these for a year. I feel better. How long should I take these? What is the maximum period one should take these?
Hi Tariq – Fish oil is something that you take on a regular basis. You can stop taking it if you begin eating wild fish like salmon or trout 3 to 4 times a week. But I would check with your doctor first, since he/she is the one who put you on it.
I was diagnosed with diabetes in 2011 and underwent Angioplasty in 1999. I’m 60. My doctor advised me to take Fish Oil 1200 mg, one tablet daily along with Cholestoff 450 mg two tablets daily besides my other medicines. I have been taking these for a year. I feel better. How long should I take these? What is the maximum period one should take these?
Hi Tariq – Fish oil is something that you take on a regular basis. You can stop taking it if you begin eating wild fish like salmon or trout 3 to 4 times a week. But I would check with your doctor first, since he/she is the one who put you on it.
Hi! After reading a few things on the Internet, I think I may suffer from depression. Can fish oil really makes me feel better in a matter of weeks? It feels like I’ve been sinking in negativity for months now, and I find it hard to believe that fish oil will cure this illness…
Hi Fred – if your depression is caused by Omega-3 deficiency, then, certainly, taking Omega-3 supplements or better yet, eating wild fish like salmon can help. It is important to keep in mind that in many people, depression is not nutrition related. If that is your case, then it requires getting the appropriate help. However, for many others, nutrition can play a huge part in how they feel. Ruling out diet-induced depression takes a couple of months of proper eating. Follow a nutrient-dense, whole foods only diet like Paleo. Read up on it first or talk to a registered dietitian who specializes in it.
Fish oil is not a cure-all and it may not cure you. It is difficult to supplement your way out of any chronic illness, but combining a diet change with supplements and a shift in lifestyle will work wonders. We have a series of articles on depression: http://www.omegavia.com/?s=depression
Thanks for the reply and the link to the interesting articles!
I’ve started taking fish oil supplement today so I guess I’ll see what happens in a few weeks. Those articles made me realize that I almost never eat fish, except on special occasions (maybe like twice a year).
I’m also not suffering from severe depression, but enough to notice that it makes me feel awful at times and prevents me from having healthy relationships.
Anyway, thank you again and have a nice day!
Hi! After reading a few things on the Internet, I think I may suffer from depression. Can fish oil really makes me feel better in a matter of weeks? It feels like I’ve been sinking in negativity for months now, and I find it hard to believe that fish oil will cure this illness…
Hi Fred – if your depression is caused by Omega-3 deficiency, then, certainly, taking Omega-3 supplements or better yet, eating wild fish like salmon can help. It is important to keep in mind that in many people, depression is not nutrition related. If that is your case, then it requires getting the appropriate help. However, for many others, nutrition can play a huge part in how they feel. Ruling out diet-induced depression takes a couple of months of proper eating. Follow a nutrient-dense, whole foods only diet like Paleo. Read up on it first or talk to a registered dietitian who specializes in it.
Fish oil is not a cure-all and it may not cure you. It is difficult to supplement your way out of any chronic illness, but combining a diet change with supplements and a shift in lifestyle will work wonders. We have a series of articles on depression: http://www.omegavia.com/?s=depression
Thanks for the reply and the link to the interesting articles!
I’ve started taking fish oil supplement today so I guess I’ll see what happens in a few weeks. Those articles made me realize that I almost never eat fish, except on special occasions (maybe like twice a year).
I’m also not suffering from severe depression, but enough to notice that it makes me feel awful at times and prevents me from having healthy relationships.
Anyway, thank you again and have a nice day!
Hello, I have been reading your info on fish oil. It is refreshing to find such comprehensive information on Fish oil. I cannot thank you enough.
I am aware of someone who used fish oil and it significantly decreased their severe depression. It also increased their concentration which made it possible for them to return to work, after being unable to work (due to depression) for 13 years. I would also like to say that Orthomolecular medicine has cured depression and severe forms of mental illness. For the person seeking help with depression they should also visit Orthomolecular.org Additionally, they should find out if they are deficient in magnesium. Other studies point to the benefit of using Young Barley Grass and Tomatoes to resolve depression. Visit usa.gov, and search for the effect of young barley grass on depression. It has an anti-depressant effect. Visit Sciencedaily.com and search for tomatoes for depression. A study done on an aging population showed when eaten twice or more a week, tomatoes had an anti-depressant effect. Moving forward I will recommend this website for good information on fish oil. Thank you.
Thank you, Vashti. Isn’t it interesting that the solutions you suggest are all foods or food extract and not prescription drugs? True health comes (and goes) from the kitchen, not medicine cabinet.
Hello, I have been reading your info on fish oil. It is refreshing to find such comprehensive information on Fish oil. I cannot thank you enough.
I am aware of someone who used fish oil and it significantly decreased their severe depression. It also increased their concentration which made it possible for them to return to work, after being unable to work (due to depression) for 13 years. I would also like to say that Orthomolecular medicine has cured depression and severe forms of mental illness. For the person seeking help with depression they should also visit Orthomolecular.org Additionally, they should find out if they are deficient in magnesium. Other studies point to the benefit of using Young Barley Grass and Tomatoes to resolve depression. Visit usa.gov, and search for the effect of young barley grass on depression. It has an anti-depressant effect. Visit Sciencedaily.com and search for tomatoes for depression. A study done on an aging population showed when eaten twice or more a week, tomatoes had an anti-depressant effect. Moving forward I will recommend this website for good information on fish oil. Thank you.
Thank you, Vashti. Isn’t it interesting that the solutions you suggest are all foods or food extract and not prescription drugs? True health comes (and goes) from the kitchen, not medicine cabinet.
Thank you for this article.
I see that fish oil in certain quantities helps bring down blood pressure. How does this work for a person who has low BP but needs to take fish oil for atopic dermatisis?
1. I had already purchased the brand Vitamin Shoppe Omega 3 Fish Oil 300 Epa/ 200 Dha before I cam across this article. Will taking 2 capsules 3 times a day (soon after a meal) help (total of 1800epa/1200dha daily)?
2. Can I also take along with fish oil the following? Will any of these interfere will fish oil or one another?
a)Evening primrose oil capsules for Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA)
b) Probiotics
c) B12 Vitamin supplement
d)Brewers yeast capsules
Thank you
Hi AA – fish oil can lower blood pressure in those with high blood pressure, but I’ve never heard of it lowering BP to unsafe level in people without BP issues. If you’re concerned, have your doctor monitor it.
Your dosage for the skin condition sound very good. At that dosage you should notice some improvement. If you don’t, then you know that there are other root causes. None of the supplements you mention will interfere with fish oil. Remember that fish and the oils they contain are meant to be part of your regular diet. SO Omega-3 is something your body needs and expects.
Thank you for this article.
I see that fish oil in certain quantities helps bring down blood pressure. How does this work for a person who has low BP but needs to take fish oil for atopic dermatisis?
1. I had already purchased the brand Vitamin Shoppe Omega 3 Fish Oil 300 Epa/ 200 Dha before I cam across this article. Will taking 2 capsules 3 times a day (soon after a meal) help (total of 1800epa/1200dha daily)?
2. Can I also take along with fish oil the following? Will any of these interfere will fish oil or one another?
a)Evening primrose oil capsules for Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA)
b) Probiotics
c) B12 Vitamin supplement
d)Brewers yeast capsules
Thank you
Hi AA – fish oil can lower blood pressure in those with high blood pressure, but I’ve never heard of it lowering BP to unsafe level in people without BP issues. If you’re concerned, have your doctor monitor it.
Your dosage for the skin condition sound very good. At that dosage you should notice some improvement. If you don’t, then you know that there are other root causes. None of the supplements you mention will interfere with fish oil. Remember that fish and the oils they contain are meant to be part of your regular diet. SO Omega-3 is something your body needs and expects.
Hi, and thank you for your article! It’s been so helpful. I’ve been suffering on and off for a few weeks with eczema-like rash under my eyes and am hoping the Costco brand of Alaskan Omega-3 will help. I’ve never taken fish oil pills before and am wondering if there’s any type of odor to them once taken? Ways to prevent? 🙂 thanks!
Hi Jess – you won’t know if you will have fishy burps until you try it. Make sure you start with 1 pill per day but increase dosage over the next few days to 2000 mg of Omega-3 per day. Take it with meals.
Hi, and thank you for your article! It’s been so helpful. I’ve been suffering on and off for a few weeks with eczema-like rash under my eyes and am hoping the Costco brand of Alaskan Omega-3 will help. I’ve never taken fish oil pills before and am wondering if there’s any type of odor to them once taken? Ways to prevent? 🙂 thanks!
Hi Jess – you won’t know if you will have fishy burps until you try it. Make sure you start with 1 pill per day but increase dosage over the next few days to 2000 mg of Omega-3 per day. Take it with meals.
Thanks so much for your response. Truly appreciated.
Thanks so much for your response. Truly appreciated.
Hi
Why is taking high concentration of omega 3’s in a single serving better than simply doubling or tripling the dosage of a lower concentrated form? Is pill or liquid better? I’m taking Nordic natural ultimate omega xtra.
I’m also giving my kids the Nordic natural children’s DHA which is from Arctic cod liver. Is that okay? Thanks.
Hi Sam – for most conditions, tripling the dosage of regular fish oil to get the same amount of Omega-3 as ‘pharmaceutical grade’ fish oil will work. But this means accepting a few things:
1. that you are committing to 3 times as many pills
2. that you are more likely to ingest a little more environmental pollutants and contaminants. Concentrated fish oils are far more purified
3. Some conditions like high triglycerides do not respond well to low-potency oils. I’ve explained that here in detail: http://www.omegavia.com/why-pharmaceutical-grade-fish-oil-is-better/ Also, lowering triglycerides requires 3000 mg of Omega-3 per day. That equals to 8 to 10 pills a day.
4. You are more likely to ingest rancid oils – lower concentrated oils are sold as commodity and pricing trumps everything else. When price/cost is the most important factor (say, with a Walmart store brand fish oil), then you are by default allowing room for some flaws in quality. Of course, you won’t have that issue with the Nordic Naturals item – they are high quality.
If you can accept the taste of liquid fish oils, they are great for getting large amounts of Omega-3 in a spoonful of oil. More here: http://www.omegavia.com/liquid-fish-oil/
Hi
Why is taking high concentration of omega 3’s in a single serving better than simply doubling or tripling the dosage of a lower concentrated form? Is pill or liquid better? I’m taking Nordic natural ultimate omega xtra.
I’m also giving my kids the Nordic natural children’s DHA which is from Arctic cod liver. Is that okay? Thanks.
Hello, thank you for the article!
I had a panic attack over a year ago, a severe one that left me a bit (or maybe a lot) troubled and afraid of the fear of having it again. I started looking at my options, besides just talking to a therapist for a more scientific approach. I immediately started thinking that maybe my diet did not help me much. So I added power pilates to my schedule (for the social interaction to get me out of my comfort zone) and spirulina and fish oil in my diet. I take one pill of spirulina each morning with two glasses of water and then after dinner 500mg of 0mega 3 fish oil. I used to take vitamin B complex (I had some white tinted “scars” on my arms which disappeared after a month of vB consumption). I stopped the B complex because spirulina is rich in that vitamin. I read that fish oil is rich in omega 3 and spirulina (as a sea product for vegs) extremely rich in vitamins and also considered a bit of a happy pill…Do you think it is effective to take both in such a low dosage? Thank you!
Hi Angelina – nothing wrong with your regimen. You could use more Omega-3. May be 1000 mg. And I’d go back to taking the Vit B.
Thank you so much! Will raise my omegas!
i have a big belly and small bottoms and also my hips is huge which i dont prefer. i want to increase my bottoms and hips and reduce my belly, can I used omega oil. there is drug call Paradox capsules with omega oil a friend recommend it to me. i want to know will this help me with my problem.
HI Janet – I have bad news for you: Omega-3 is unlikely to solve this issue. Although I have an idea for belly fat: http://www.omegavia.com/fish-oil-and-belly-fat/
Hello, my doc said I have astigmatism and long sitedness I used omega 3 1000 mg and I feel way better, how long should I keep using it and is the 1000 mg ok, can it cure me?
Fish oil will not cure you of astigmatism. It will make your eyes (and the rest of you) healthier as long as you’re getting enough Omega-3 from seafood or supplements.
I’m agree that fish oil help to cure psoriasis .in my experienced my mother had psoriasis before were been in dermatologist and we had much time, money and effort but still no effect and fish oil comes I’m so amazing that my mother cured alreadywith the help of fish oil kirkland
Hello, I would like to know for long do I have to take my prescription Omega-3? I have been taking them for 2 months.
Hi Jackie – that’s a question for the doctor who prescribed it. I assume your doctor prescribed it to lower triglycerides. It generally takes 6-8 weeks for Omega-3 to lower triglycerides. And if you stop taking the pills, your triglycerides will go back to where they were in about a month or two. Cutting out sugar, grains, refined carbs, juices will also lower triglycerides. Of course, exercise will do it too.
Hi, my doctor tall me I have normal psoriasis he give me medicine he didn’t help me any thing you think fish oil is gone work for me . I have fish oil 1200 mg how many do I have to take a day ??
Hi Ahmed – assuming each pill has 360 mg of Omega-3, you will likely need at least 4-5 a day to make a difference. This is because you are using low potency fish oil. You need pharmaceutical grade fish oils – there are many brands available that can provide 900-1000 mg of Omega-3 per day. Aim for 2000 to 3000 mg Omega-3 per day and see if that makes a difference.
hi , i would like to know about 3 things
1. fish oil pills vs cod liver
2. which one reduce acne and pores for (oily skin) ? age is 22 and its (mg) per day ?
3.Mention some good brands?
Hi Vidhya – go with fish oil. Aim for 1000 mg of Omega-3 per day.
Is omega 3 plus made in Egypt good?
and can I put it directly on my face?
Thanks in advance.
Hi Angie – no and no.
Whats Your opinion on vascepa? To get the full benifits of this article wouldent this be the best option rather than any over the counter/supplement/loveza due to it being pure epa and far more efficacious?
Hi Steve – Vascepa is great. If your insurance covers it, talk to your doctor about getting a Rx. Many people can benefit from Vascepa but some need DHA as well, as their diet may not provide adequate DHA. We also have a pure EPA product: http://www.omegavia.com/epa-500/
Thanks for the advice, want to know if omega 3 can reduce heart problems like asthma ?
Is Nature Made, Fish Oil 1200 mg is good for kids 4+? If so, what is the appropriate dosage per day? Thanks
Hi Doomed Prince – the pill size will be an issue for young children. You’re better off including wild seafood into their diets more often. If not, try one of these: http://www.omegavia.com/omega-3-kids/
Is omega 3 good for oily skin
Hi Vikas – I don’t think there is evidence to take Omega-3 for oily skin. However, I suspect the oiliness may be due to other dietary, genetic or environmental factors.
Hi, Vin,
An issue has come up in some discussions about omega-3 and vitamin E. The thinking is that upping your intake of omega-3 also means that you must up your intake of vitamin E because omega-3 uses vitamin E for its absorption and if E isn’t supplemented, you can use up your supply of it very quickly.
So, the more omega-3 you ingest, the more E you need. Is this really true? And if so, what is the ratio you recommend of O3 to E for good balance? What I’m looking for it something like; if you take 1gram of omega-3 a day, you need “X” IUs of E a day. Thanks!
Hi PJ – I have issues with this premise because it is a wobbly stack of semi-facts atop assumptions and concerns. Yes, we need Vitamin E for lots of things. No, most of us don’t get enough of it. There are 8 types of Vitamin E…and most supplements provide just a synthetic version of one of the eight, which is very poorly absorbed. We should get cozy with the concept of E-complex like are with B-complex. As far as your question, I don’t want to link Omega-3 absorption or oxidation prevention to Vit E…although those are good reasons to take E complex. I want to stress the need for E complex from eggs, nuts and oils on a daily basis. If you can’t/won’t have varied, whole foods diet, then may be you could supplement with something like Jarrow’s FamilE. I take 3 or 4 of those every week. I don’t have a ratio or Omega-3 to E…although there is merit to having a ratio of the fat solubles: A, D3, E complex and K2.
Thanks. And are you saying you DO have a ratio for A, D3, E complex, and K2, or that there SHOULD be one and there isn’t?
Agreed about the DL version. I don’t get taking synthetic when the real deal is so cheap. I have seen the E Complex versions all over. There are many. I will check out Famil-e (cute name).
I did find one interesting one by NOW Foods called Sun E-400, which is non-GMO-derived E from sunflowers, equaling 400IU of E in the form of d-alpha tocopherol. Not sure if it matters where the E is sourced from, but it smells (I swear) like pizza or pasta when you open the bottle. lol Not a bad side benefit.
Hi PJ – A and D probably serves you best at a 5:1 ratio. Some say 10:1. But the point is that these MUST not be taken in isolation. I worry for all the new D3-loving doctors and their patients who don’t know this and probably think more D3 (in isolation) is better. Especially if the doctors are telling them to eat low-fat and THEN take D3 on top of that. Low-fat gets rid of a lot of the natural A from foods. Bad combo.
Then you probably need to add 100 or 200 mcg of K2 forms. E in the form of tocopherol + tocotrieneols are all over the place. And I’m not sure how E fits into the scheme. But, yes, certainly, my preferred ratio for A to D3, on weeks when I haven’t eaten liver or gotten a nice sun tan, is 4 to 1 or 5 to 1. In the summertime, I don’t take D. But I still continue to take A in the summer, depending on my diet. So my summer time ratio is probably closer to 20:1. These fluctuations in ratios is not an issue – the beauty of fat-solubles is that it can be stored for rainy days.
I take 200 mcg of K2 on most days.
Take away here is not to get anxious about these ratios, but to know that fat solubles must ALL be consumed. Not at the same meal, day or even week. Perfectly fine to load up on liver this week and get a tan next week. Ancestral diets with all the organ meats and goop they come with is the natural way to go. But you could supplement until you become less squeamish.
Still opening up sealed softgels and sniffing them, eh? We all need hobbies. Sunflower E (like the kind used in OmegaVia) is just a way to get away from soy E. There are 4 tocopherols in both soy and sunflower. Soy tocopherols are better antioxidants due to the ratio of alpha, beta, gamma and delta. Sunflower is not as good an antioxidant (that’s why we add rosemary) but has a good profile too. You need the 4 tocotrieneols too. Dont forget them!
Wow, thank YOU! Lots of great info.
And no, for the record, sir, I did NOT crack open the softgel itself…just sniffing the bottle upon opening, thank you very much. lol However, I will always continue to crack open one out of each of my bottles of fish oils, whosever they are. Got to check that freshness! 🙂 Thanks again.
Hello I take fish oil 1200mg but I take the CVS/pharmacy brand because the other brands tend to be a little to costly for me. The total omega 3 fatty acids only contains 360mg and it says to take them three times a day. Even though it only contains 360mg of omega 3 will I still reap the benefits of the supplement? I also wanted to know if fish oil has any effects on the hair?
Hi Crystal – I haven’t seen much impact on hair, but everyone’s different, you never know. 360 mg of Omega-3 will prevent deficiency symptoms and take care of bare needs. But if you want more bang for your buck, try this: http://www.amazon.com/Strength-InnovixLabs-Concentrated-Burp-Free-Capsules/dp/B00FM9KNSI/ Our sister company makes it. You get almost 3 times as much Omega-3 per pill at about the same cost per pill.
How many omega 3 1200mg/360mg gel capsules do you recommend daily?
Hi Nina – that depends on several things – your age, weight, current health status (Fine? Not fine? Pregnant?) If you’re young and healthy, a couple of those pills ought to take care of you. If you’re middle aged and starting to have issues, you may need more, like 4 to 6 of those pills a day. This is why I recommend pharmaceutical grade fish oil pills – fewer pills but with the same amount of Omega-3.
can fish oil cure ezecema of 15 years?
Hi Tamb – you can significantly reduce or eliminate eczema if you tackle the root cause of the problem, which is inflammation. Fish oil reduces inflammation, but it alone probably won’t do the trick. You will need to drastically change your diet to reduce inflammation. Talk to a functional medicine doctor and/or dietitian. Many people experience improvements with a paleo type diet that is free of wheat and sugar.
I have uneven skin tone around my chin n upper lips …can fish oil application on skin will cure my skin n make it even ?
Hi Eshwar – no, I don’t think it will do anything. Smearing it on your face is a very bad idea. But you may want to swallow a couple of pills a day and see if you notice any benefits.
Thanks sir!!! One more query, is there a difference between fish oil n cod liver oil ??? I m having seacod -cod liver capsules containing vitamin A, omega 3 n vitamin D . Along with SKINVIT – another multi vitamins ,,, will it cure my uneven skin tone n helps me in gettin even skin tone??? I m worried!!
Hi Eshwar – nowadays there isnt much difference between fish oil and cod liver oil. Except modern cod liver oil has a small amount of Vitamin A added back to it. Old-fashioned cod liver oil was a good source of Vitamin A and D3, which most people are deficient in. If you have other sources of A and D3, then you can continue to take fish oil and skip the cod liver oil. More here: http://www.omegavia.com/cod-liver-oil/
Omega-3 and Vit A can help improve skin, but only if you clean up your diet – no sugar, processed foods, sodas etc.
By taking this product (I am 67) are there any harmful side effects and how much would I need to take to give me some back pain relief?
Hi Tom – remember that Omega-3 is an essential nutrient, not medicine. Any side effects associated with Omega-3 are dose dependent, temporary and not serious. You may burp or notice some stomach distress if you take too many pills at once. For most people (greater than 95%) there is no side effects if you take one or two pills a day. Of course, we are all individuals and how we react to nutrients depends on our unique genetics and digestive system. My suggestion is to start with just one pill with a meal. If you’re OK, then go up to 2 per day after a week or so.
I learnt a lot that I read about omega 3 I have got a yeast problem do you think it would help my problem I have clonics witch help me but wondering about omega 3 do you think it would help me to please
Hi Marlene – neither Omega-3 nor colonics help. Heal your gut and stop harming natural flora. Put probiotics and fermented foods back into your diet. Try d-mannose as well.
Hi
Please help me to understand ….
I’m age 43 and have high blood pressure 138/90, I started taking fish oil about 2 weeks ago.
But recently, I feel itchy around my jaws area and also whole face is “rosy red”. Really cause by fish oil? Does that mean i have too much fish oil and should reduce my intake?
Thanks so much
Hi Rosalind – have a doctor look at this. Sounds like an allergy. It may or may not be the fish oil. The Omega-3s in fish oil is essential, but the fish oil may have some allergens that you’re reacting to. For blood pressure, you generally need to increase exercise, increase potassium consumption (thru vegetables and fruits), reduce grains, and 3 grams of Omega-3 per day will help…as far as diet/lifestyle changes are concerned. You may need Rx meds too.
I’ve been taken Nordic naturals fish oil. From life source 1000 ms soft gels. Now is 1000 mg for each gel or both gels combined 1000mg. It says take 2 a day. I also need to lose weight too. How many of these do I need to take to get the right amount.
Hi Marsha – i’d stay with 2 or 3 of the Nordic Natural fish oil pills a day.
Ok thank you, also is it 1000 mg each gel or both combined
Also besides eating healthy and exercising what else would you suggest to help lose it faster besides vitamin d and fish oil
Hi Marsha – fish oil and Vitamin D won’t make you lose weight. They will keep you a little healthier, but won’t affect your weight much. Remember this: you lose weight in the kitchen and get healthy at the gym. Not the other way around. The best way to lose weight is to lose the sugar and refined carbohydrates like flour. Replace grains with vegetables.
How do fish oil help in hair loss? Is it also helpful in growing thick hair?
Hi Joseph – based on existing science, fish oil does not appear help with hair loss or hair thickness.
Is taking fish oil while breastfeeding is good ? If so how much safe to take?
Hi Shax – it is not only good, but highly recommended. The Omega-3 fats necessary for your baby’s brain and eye development can be transferred thru your milk to your baby. I would take 1000 to 2000 mg of Omega-3 per day. Out of that, at least 1000 should be in the DHA form. Try this: https://omegavia.com/dha-600/
Hi Dr Vin Kutty, My daughter is 16, and she developed severe Eczema at the age of 11. Her skin is peeling, flaky, itchy and severe burning sensations randomly. We have tried various dermatologists, different types of treatment like homeopathy, Ayurvedic (for almost 2 yrs), but nothing seems to help. We always knew omega-3 was good for skin but never knew how much, recently came across this interactive informative link, and reading through many of your suggestions, i have bought “GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil ” which provides 900mg of Omega-3, we also had an old bottle of fish oil tablets which provide 500mg of omega-3, just wondering if it would be ok for my daughter to consume the 900mg X3 and the 500mg X1 per day after one meal or should it be staggered doses throughout the day. Also wondering if this brand is okay, and if there would be any side effects. Thanks Sheeja
Hi Sheeja – yes, GNC if fine, as long as the product is not past it expiration date. Three of those pills could help lower inflammation. But you need to tackle this from a ‘ground up’ perspective with a dramatic change in diet and lifestyle. Follow an anti-inflammatory diet – there are many books available to help you. Start with complete elimination of sugar, juice, and flour from her diet. Focus on vegetables and meats.
Hi Vin- For some time now, I’ve been suffering from Dermatitis and I wanted to know if 1,200 mg of Fish Oil a day with 300 mg of Omega-3 be enough to show significant results of improvement with my skin. I did read on one of your other responses that more than “One a day” could be done relating to the Omega-3 intake. If I take more than one of these pills a day, preferably 2, would this cause anything dangerous to my body? I do know of the many benefits of Fish Oil so I want to keep utilizing it for body health. just wasn’t sure of the best intake to show significant results with Eczema. Thanks in advance.
Hi Germayel – you will need at least 2000-3000 mg of Omega-3 per day to reduce inflammation. The fish oil you are taking is very weak – there is very little Omega-3 in the oil. You should take a pharma grade product with higher level of Omega-3 in the oil. Talk to a nutritionist about how to start an anti-inflammatory diet. Start with eliminating sugar and flour from your diet.
hi! i have 16 years old daughter, is it okey for her to take kirk land fish oil and at her age?
Hi Jenny – yes!
Hi, does the Omega-3 help darken white spots on the face? I have white spots on my face that are very noticeable
Hi Jessica – Omega-3 deficiency is often noticeable on the skin, but whites spots are not a typical symptom. I’ve seen people with light blothces on their cheeks – these are usually related to poor diet and deficiencies.
hi. i have dermatitis and taking medication. can i take fish oil by naturemade and does it not affect the medication?
Hi Satveer – yes, you may take the fish oil along with your dermatitis medication, but please check with your pharmacist and/or doctor as well.
Hello there..my mom get tryomega fish oil capsule per day..she is currently using losartan,herbesser,Rx neorosanbe,HCT tablets..I wanted to know is that any problem with take fish oil capsules with those tablets..?
Hi Samudra – these are questions only your doctor and pharmacist should answer. Omega-3 supplements do not generally interfere with other medications because these are essential fats, however, since your mother is under medical care, the care providers should answer this question.