If you have been paying close enough attention to today’s health news then you probably have heard of the importance of  omega 3 fatty acids, or some call fish oil. The big question that keeps popping up is what is an appropriate fish oil dosage to consume?  This article will help break down that question, and lead you in the proper direction.

First off, if you don’t already know, the benefits of fish oil, that are scientifically documented, are plentiful. Scientific studies have shown a positive connection between fish oil , and cardiovascular health, decreased inflammation, and overall improved mental focus. These are just a few of the benefits of getting the proper amount of omega 3 fatty acids in your diet.

Now remember, your body can not produce omega 3 fats, so they must come from your diet. What kind of fish oil dosage are we talking about to get these wonderful benefits?

The interesting news is the United States has no clear cut guidelines on how much omega 3 fatty acids you should be taking in. However, it is commonly agreed upon by the scientific community that healthy individuals should be talking in somewhere between 250 mg – 800 mg of omega 3 fatty acids with DHA, and EPA present.

The American Heart Association recommends 1 g of EPA, and DHA based fatty acids for people who have heart disease. Those that have high triglycerides should look at taking in 2-4 g of fish oil; that is, under a doctors watch.

Children should consume a fish oil dosage of 100 mg – 250 mg per day.

Yes, if you don’t pay attention to the amount of essential fatty acids you are talking in, then you will most likely be deficient. Studies have shown that the average adult only gets between 120 mg – 150 mg per day.

As far as overdosing on fish oil supplements, there did not appear to be a problem with study participants who consumed 3 -5 g of omega 3 fish oil each day for 1 month. However, if you take too much of the supplement, some experts suggest your clot time in your blood will increase. Therefore, I would stick to the recommendations mentioned above of between 250 mg – 800 mg each day for healthy individuals.

Now remember, if you are eating lots of fatty fish such as salmon, and mackerel you may not need a fish oil supplement. However, like I mentioned above, most people don’t eat fatty fish often enough, and have too low of omega 3 fatty acids in their blood. That is why a great majority of individuals need essential fatty acid supplementation.

Until more research has been completed, stick the fish oil dosage mentioned above.  For those concerned about contaminated fish please refer to this fish oil supplement safety chart. It shares which brands are good, and which to avoid. Don’t forget your omega 3 fatty acids today!

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