Fish Oil Dosage

Studies reveal that intake of fish oil on a regular basis can play a crucial role in thwarting off a number of diseases including cancer and arthritis. Derived from fish like salmon and tuna, the oil has been an 'elixir' for ailing patients. Fish oil is like a 'magic potion' for the heart. Its ability to promote a healthy heart is well documented and that is why, it is often recommended for those with existing heart problems. To maintain normal eyesight as well as for proper growth of brain cells, use of fish oil has always been recommended.

Ingredients
Fish oil is high in omega 3 essential fatty acids, mainly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). To be more specific, fish oil is an excellent source of EPA and DHA. Intake of omega 3 essential fatty acids (in form of supplements) is crucial for normal functioning of the body. As fish oil is rich in omega 3 essential fatty acids, the dosage of fish oil you consume will always indicate the amount of omega 3 fatty acids (EPA+DHA) contained in it. For instance, a person taking 1g of fish oil means he is consuming 1000 mg of omega 3 essential fatty acids (EPA+DHA), and does not indicate the weight of the supplement, which is more than 1g. EPA to DHA ratio will vary in fish oil supplements. In some capsules, the amount of EPA is more than that of DHA, while in others it is vice versa.

Sources of Fish Oil
One can either eat fish servings 2-3 times in a week or have fish oil supplements to enjoy health benefits of omega 3 essential fatty acids. However as sea and river pollution is on the rise, chances of getting unadulterated fish oil are very less. This is not the case with fish oil supplements as the manufacturers adhere to high quality standards.

Dosage
The supplements are available in different capsule strengths and the one that suits a person depends on several factors, including age and health. The dosage for children as well as adults is totally different. A dose recommended for an adult should not be consumed by children or else it may lead to some serious side effects. Also, the capsule strength for healthy people and those suffering from heart problems will vary.

For Children
As aforementioned, to reap benefits of fish oil, administering it in low doses is recommended. The dosage to be given will also depend on the amount of fish they consume per week. Generally, fish oil supplements are given to children who do not prefer to eat fish. So, following is the recommended dosage of this supplement for children who do not include fish in their diet.

0.8-0.9 grams for children aged between 4-8 years old. Children who are in the age group 9-13 years can take 1.0-1.1 grams of fish oil supplements.

For Adults
Intake of fish oil improves efficiency of the heart, thus making it less vulnerable to innumerable disorders. However, it is also useful to treat diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure and even rheumatoid arthritis. To prevent heart illnesses and for smooth functioning of the heart, what better way than taking fish oil supplements. People wanting to keep their heart fit and fine can consume fish oil capsules that have strength varying from 0.5 to 1.8g (EPA+DHA) daily.

Certain modifications have to be made in the dosage for people diagnosed with heart diseases. For instance, those suffering from coronary heart diseases are allowed to take 1000 mg (DHA+EPA) strength supplements. Although this recommended dosage can be obtained from eating fish, a better option would be to take supplements. Those having angina should have 6 g of fish oil daily. However, there is no need to take such a large at one go. Instead, one can consume 2g of this supplement in the morning and the remaining dosage in the afternoon and evening respectively.

Eczema patients too can get relief by taking this supplement. Eczema is a skin problem that can be reduced to a great extent by 1g fish oil capsules 3 times daily. Fish oil is also beneficial for people having high levels of triglycerides. People with high triglycerides are prone to diseases like heart attack. To prevent heart diseases and restore normal triglyceride levels, one can have 2g strength capsule daily.

On the whole, keep in mind that correct dosage is very important to ensure healthy life for years to come. Consuming fish oil in large doses will certainly deprive you of its benefits. So, consultation with a well qualified doctor before purchasing this supplement, would certainly work in your favor. Also buying supplements from a reliable certified manufacturer will ensure that you get the supplements containing the right constituents.