Omega-3 (Fish Oil)
2000 mg · Daily
Evidence
- Human Studies
- 150
- Animal Studies
- 60
- Clinical Status
- Dietary Supplement
- Confidence
- Moderate
- Long-Term Safety
- Well-established at typical doses; large clinical trials have shown mixed results on hard cardiovascular endpoints despite reliably lowering triglycerides
What this score is: a measure of how much research exists and how far along it is (animal-only vs. human trials, research-stage vs. FDA approved) — not how safe, effective, or worth trying a compound is. A low score usually means “early stage” or “understudied,” not “bad.” A high score doesn’t mean “better” for your goals than a lower-scored one.
This is not my personal rating of the compound, not a recommendation, and not medical advice. It’s a general research synthesis for informational purposes only, not a live literature count. See the linked research and talk to a licensed clinician before making decisions based on it.
Mechanism
EPA and DHA are omega-3 fatty acids incorporated into cell membranes throughout the body, with well-documented triglyceride-lowering and anti-inflammatory effects. Evidence for reducing cardiovascular events specifically has been more mixed in recent large trials than earlier observational data suggested.
Common Protocols
- 1–2 g combined EPA/DHA daily
- Take with meals to reduce fishy aftertaste and GI upset
Side Effects
- Fishy burps/aftertaste
- Mild GI upset
- Increased bleeding risk at high doses
Interactions
- Caution combining with blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin) due to additive bleeding risk — talk to a clinician if you’re on one
Practical Details
- Cost
- $
- Typical Dose
- 2000 mg
- Storage
- Refrigeration can reduce rancidity/fishy aftertaste; check label
Research Links
EPA/DHA; cardiovascular and joint support