How much fish oil should I take? - High Cholesterol Message Board

Miriam · 02-02-2003, 04:33 PM

Hi,

Well, I just got my fish oil capsules. I went the expensive route and bought Carlson's fish oil capsules, as they are supposed to be the best that you can buy. I took my first two (500 mg of fish oils each) a couple of hours ago. Everything seems okay, but I am burping a little fishy taste. YUCK! I do NOT like fish!

So, I was planning on taking 3000 mg (6 capsules) per day, as I read that on a few sites. But now I've read on a few more sites that I should only need like 500-1000 mg per day to lower my triglyerides. To be honest, I'm kind of hoping I only have to take one or two per day rather than six.

So, anybody know for sure?

I appreciate any help here!

ARIZONA73 · 02-02-2003, 05:58 PM

Yes, 3000mg of fish oil sounds about right if you need to lower triglycerides. If your triglycerides were already in the normal range, then I would say that 500-1000mg would be an adequate amount. Now, if you were a fish eater, and ate fish two or three times per week, then I would say that you may be able to get by with less.

[This message has been edited by ARIZONA73 (edited 02-02-2003).]

Miriam · 02-02-2003, 06:14 PM

Hi Arizona,

Ugh! Yeah, I figured that I'd have to take that much. Oh well...this stuff isn't all that bad, really.

LOL. Oh well...I'm sure I'll get used to it!

CobaltBlue · 02-03-2003, 05:21 AM

Just for comparison, I take 2 2-g capsules daily and eat fish (usually salmon) twice per week. I have heard others describe a fishy burp taste, but neither my wife, who takes the same dose, nor I have experienced this.

I wish I could quantitate its role in lowering triglycerides and improving one's lipid panel in general. All I can really tell you is that fish and fish oil have been incorporated into my new lifestyle for the last 9 months. In that time I have went off of Tricor and watched my Triglycerides plummet from 108 mg/dL to 34 mg/dL for my last blood draw about 2 weeks ago. Then again, I have also lost 55 lbs of weight, exercise daily, consume much less carbs and keep my intake of saturated fat to a minimum.

Miriam · 02-03-2003, 05:30 AM

Hi ubernier

It sure sounds like you are getting good results from your fish oil. I do know what you mean about not knowing if it's your weight loss or your fish oil or a combination of both. Either way, it sounds like you are really on the right track!

What brand of fish oil do you take? (if you don't mind me asking). From what I've read, there are only a few "good" brands out there...so I am always looking for people's opinions on certain brands.

Thanks.