Fish oil is a healthy source of omega-3 fatty acids. In high doses, fish oil can lower triglycerides levels. Triglycerides are a type of fat made by the body from extra energy (calories) and sugar. High levels can increase your risk of heart disease.
This handout only refers to non-prescription fish oil capsules recommended by your health provider.
Why you may Need Fish Oil Supplements
Your doctor may have told you to take fish oil because you have:
High triglycerides (>500mg/dl)
When Fish oil is taken daily it can:
Lower triglyceride levels by 25-50%
Decrease the stickiness of blood cells (platelets)
Reduces inflammation
Fish Oil Safety
Fish oil supplements are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in children and adults. Some types of fish may be contaminated with mercury and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyl). When fish oil supplements are made, these are removed. Shark, king mackerel, and farm-raised salmon supplements may be contaminated.
Cod liver oil is not recommended as it is lower in omega-3 fatty acids and large doses may provide too much vitamin A. Flaxseed oil and other sources of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) may not be used because they do not lower triglycerides.
Stop fish oil for one week before surgeries. Discuss this with your surgeon.
Interactions
Fish oils may interact with:
Birth control pills
Blood pressure medicines
Orlistat
Blood thinners
Immunosuppressants (Cyclosporine, Sirolimus, and Tacrolimus)
Fish Oil Safety
You should not take fish oil if you have:
Fish or seafood allergies
Bleeding disorders
How to Take Fish Oil
Ask your health provider about the right dose to take. For those with >500mg/dl of triglycerides, daily dose of 3000-4000 mg of omega 3 fatty acids (DHA+EPA) is preferred.
Find a fish oil supplement that is right for you. There are softgels and liquid versions. Your healthcare provider can advise you where to buy these supplements. To find a reputable supplement, look for a “third-party tested” product. Common independent testing organizations include USP, NSF, and ConsumerLab.
Find the “Serving Size” on the Supplement Facts panel.
Add the EPA + DHA to find the dose per serving. In the example, 1 softgel equals 935mg (683mg EPA + 252mg DHA). In order to meet the recommendation of 3000-4000 mg per day, you would need to take 4 of these softgels per day.
High-dose fish oil (>3000 mg daily) should be taken with a meal that contains fat and split between breakfast and dinner to maximize absorption and digestive comfort.
To decrease “fish burps” try to:
Look for a “burp-less” formula.
Store the fish oil in the fridge.
Swallow it cold.
Take it at night.
Who to Call
If you have questions, please contact your provider through MyChart or call your provider listed in your After Visit Summary or After Hospital Care Plan.
For a list of UW Health Clinics, please visit www.uwhealth.org/.