How to Find the Correct Dosage of Fish Oil
At one time, parents gave their kids a dosage of fish oil to keep their digestive systems regular, protect against rickets and prevent vitamin A deficiency. Back then, no one knew about the benefits in brain development or the essential nature of omega-3 fatty acids and DHA, in particular.
Fish oils are rich in omega-3 fatty acids called DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid). Fatty fishes are actually the only dietary source of those polyunsaturated fatty acids. The fishes get theirs from marine algae or by eating smaller fishes.
A different omega-3 called ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) is present in vegetable oils, such as olive and flax seed. While ALA is essential to human health, its primary purpose is to be converted to EPA and then to DHA.
Since the conversion process is relatively slow and the amount of conversion varies from one person to the next, most doctors now suggest the consumption of 5-7 servings of fatty fish per week or a daily dosage of fish oil. Some doctors suggest both.
We do have to be careful about choosing a low-mercury species. Most doctors recommend only two servings per week for pregnant women or women that can become pregnant. But, realizing the importance of DHA for the developing fetus, they usually recommend a daily DHA supplement, too.
For children, most supplement manufacturers suggest 1000mg per day. But, as a parent, you must be careful about which supplement you choose. The purity must be unquestionable. The manufacturer should provide access to a certificate of analysis from an independent lab verifying that no mercury, lead, PCBs or other contaminants are present.
The omega-3 content and the DHA content vary greatly, as well. So, those need to be verified, too. The better brands provide a minimum of 500mg of total omega-3s and 280mg of DHA, per 1000mg dosage of fish oil.
For adults, most supplement manufacturers recommend 2000mg or 2 capsules per day. Some popular diet doctors recommend as much as 3000mg per day. Researchers have proven that a person can safely take up to 3000mg per day with no increased bleeding risk.
Cardiac and arthritis patients may need to take a larger dosage of fish oil, but that is something to discuss with your doctor. Recent studies show that there is no increased bleeding risk among cardiac patients that take aspirin, omega-3 supplements and a blood thinner, but a regimen like that should be closely monitored by a physician.
Every part of the body may be benefitted by increased omega-3 intake. Researchers have noted benefit to the brain, cardiovascular system, immune system, digestive system, the joints, the hair and the skin. One study showed that a supplement may reduce a person’s wrinkles by improving the firmness of their skin.
Laurel Cohen is a strong advocate of natural health in all its forms: skin care, supplementation, and farm fresh foods. She enjoys introducing people to the best natural products she can find and uses herself daily. Visit her site http://www.omega-3-for-health.com to learn about the omega 3 fish oils Laurel uses daily for optimal health.
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