fish oil, recommended dosage for athletes

Fish oil is a primary source of omega-3 fatty acids. These "healthy" fatty acids offer a number of benefits. If you don't enjoy fish or are unable to eat much of it, you can take fish oil capsules. Fish oil in dietary supplement form can provide the same benefits as eating fish if taken in proper dosages. Speak to your doctor before beginning a dietary supplement regimen of any type, and always read the dosage directions on supplement bottles.

Function of fish oil

Fish oil contains docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, which have been specifically linked to a reduced risk of heart attacks. The acids also help correct abnormal heart rhythms, or arrhythmia, and lower the risk of stroke if you have cardiovascular disease. Fish oil can help slow the buildup of plaque in the arteries and encourage lower blood pressure . Taking fish oil supplements is helpful if you only eat fish that is fried. Frying fish eliminates fish oil's benefits.

Dosageof fish oil

Fish oil is considered safe for adults, including pregnant and breastfeeding women. According to MedlinePlus, you should not take more that 3 g of fish oil per day if you are healthy. Certain conditions may require a higher dosage. For instance, doctors may recommend you take 1 to 4 g of fish oil daily if you have high triglycerides. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you should take 3.8 g per day of EPA. Up to 5.1 g of fish oil is the recommended dose to help prevent miscarriages in women with anti-phospholipid antibody syndrome. If you have a condition, speak to your doctor to determine if fish oil is appropriate for you to take

Side Effectof fish oil::

Taking more than the recommended dosage can lead to potentially dangerous side effects. Too much fish oil can increase your risk of bleeding. The acids in fish oil can keep blood from clotting, which can impede a wound from healing. Your immune system may also be adversely affected by fish oil doses that are too high and make you more susceptible to illness. A weakened immune system is especially dangerous for the elderly and people suffering from an immune deficiency disease.

Cautions

Fish oil capsules can be made with oil from various fish species. Certain species, including king mackerel, farm-raised salmon and shark, have a risk of containing mercury and other environmental contaminants. Use caution when taking fish oil if you also take birth control pills. The drugs in birth control can impede the fish oil from helping lower your triglyceride levels. You should also be cautious if you take medication for high blood pressure. Fish oil can promote low blood pressure. Coupled with your medication, the fish oil can force your blood pressure too low.

reference: livingstrong.com