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Omega-3 / fish oil
Also called: fish oil, omega 3, EPA, DHA
Fats called EPA and DHA from oily fish, or ALA from plants such as flax seeds and walnuts.
- Why people take it
- Heart health, brain health and inflammation.
- What the evidence says
- High prescription doses lower triglycerides. For most people, ordinary fish oil capsules have not clearly prevented heart attacks or strokes. Eating fish twice a week is still recommended.
- Be careful
- Can increase bleeding with blood thinners such as warfarin. High doses are linked to a higher risk of an irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation). Fishy burps and upset stomach are common.
- In food
- Oily fish (mackerel, sardines, salmon), walnuts, flax and chia seeds.
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Common questions
What is Omega-3 / fish oil?
Fats called EPA and DHA from oily fish, or ALA from plants such as flax seeds and walnuts.
Why do people take Omega-3 / fish oil?
Heart health, brain health and inflammation.
Does Omega-3 / fish oil work?
High prescription doses lower triglycerides. For most people, ordinary fish oil capsules have not clearly prevented heart attacks or strokes. Eating fish twice a week is still recommended.
Is Omega-3 / fish oil safe?
Can increase bleeding with blood thinners such as warfarin. High doses are linked to a higher risk of an irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation). Fishy burps and upset stomach are common.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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