Diet and Nutrition

Omega-3 dosage

08/14/2009

Question:

I purchased super omega-3 with fish,flax and borage oil. Each says it is 800 mg and to take 2 a day with the meal of choice. Is that dosage high,or okay? Thanks

Answer:

I am so glad that you asked. Many people gamble with their health by self medicating using dietary supplements. It is good to do your homework prior to taking any supplement. And as with any supplement, it is a good idea to discuss this with your doctor before taking it.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), recommendations for obtaining omega-3 fatty acids vary with your health needs (those without documented coronary heart disease, people with heart disease, and those who need to lower their triglycerides). * The AHA recommends eating fish (particularly fatty fish, rich in omega 3) at least two times a week* as the preferred method for obtaining this valuable nutrient. They state that "Patients taking more than 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids from capsules should do so only under a physician's care. High intakes could cause excessive bleeding in some people." For the full article on omega 3's see: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4632

If you do choose to take an omega-3 supplement, make sure that it comes from a reputable company with high quality control standards. This will help you avoid problems with contamination (such as mercury and lead).

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Response by:

Jane Korsberg, MS, RD, LD
Senior Instructor
Department of Nutrition
School of Medicine
Case Western Reserve University