Fish oil supplements are safe for most people to take. But whether you’ll see any benefit from them depends on your overall health and risk factors like your diet and lifestyle. There is not enough evidence to recommend that everyone take them. Fish oil supplements appear to have the most benefits for:
Anyone with existing heart disease or who has had a heart attack. The American Heart Association recommends 1,000 mg daily of EPA and DHA combined for these people.
People with high triglycerides.
People with mild cognitive impairment.
Pregnant women.
Those with rheumatoid arthritis.
The best advice is to ask your doctor about the potential benefits or whether there are any risks. They can also advise you on the best dose to take. Generally, 1,000 mg of omega-3 (DHA and EPA combined) is a safe dose for most people. But you may need more or less depending on your health and reason for use. Fish oil can interact with blood thinners and increase your risk of bleeding. So if you take blood thinners or anticoagulant medicines, it’s vital to talk to your doctor first. You should also avoid fish oil if you have a fish allergy.