Fish Oil

Fish oil is commonly taken to support heart health, brain function, eye health and vision, plus joint health and mobility. It may support muscle recovery, improve range of motion and provide numerous other benefits for everyday general health.

Fish oil is an oil that is produced by the fish’s fat and tissues and contains Omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). However, the fish does not produce those itself, but acquires it through its diet by feeding on a diet of other fish and microalgae.

Taking a capsule of fish oil every day may help support your ongoing heart health, mood balance, weight management, eye health, and vision (especially if working behind a computer screen), may help with tired stiff joints and muscles, and may support skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis. Fish oil is considered to have essential nutrients DHA and EPA, which need to be replenished regularly.

If you don’t eat fatty fish regularly, you may want to consider supplements. There is no set recommendation on the amount of fish oil you should take. However, there are recommendations for total omega-3 intake, as well as EPA and DHA (active ingredients of fish oil). The reference daily intake (RDI) of combined EPA and DHA is 250–500 mg. This potentially could equate to 1-2 capsules daily, depending on the supplement.

Interestingly, fish oil consumption helps support the levels of serotonin in the body, which is considered the 'feel good' hormone in the body. Fish oil is likely to be safe for most people in doses of 3 grams (total) or less daily. The benefits include more brain focus, better energy levels and less dry skin and stiff joints.