Omega-3 (EPA and DHA)
Long-chain fatty acids from oily fish, usually supplied as fish oil in capsules.
What the research shows
Shown repeatedly in humans, in reviews or meta-analyses.
The Cochrane review by Abdelhamid (2020) found little to no difference in mortality and cardiovascular disease, with high certainty. Wang (2023) saw triglycerides fall further as the dose increased. Hu (2019) counted a small drop in heart attacks across 13 trials with 127,477 participants, in the order of a few percent.
Who it makes sense for: People who eat little or no oily fish, and people with raised triglycerides.
How we weigh evidenceClinical dosage
Scientific sources
The clinical dosages on this page are based on peer-reviewed research.
- Omega-3 fatty acids for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease.Abdelhamid AS et al. (2020)
- Association Between Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake and Dyslipidemia: A Continuous Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.Wang T et al. (2023)
- Marine Omega-3 Supplementation and Cardiovascular Disease: An Updated Meta-Analysis of 13 Randomized Controlled Trials Involving 127 477 Participants.Hu Y et al. (2019)
We keep the dosages and values on this page as accurate as possible based on selected studies. New research may change these values. Nothing on this page is medical advice. If you have any doubts, always consult a doctor.