Studies suggest omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil supplements have helped reducetriglyceride levels.
Still, fish oils effects on cholesterol levels are less established.
This means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
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You may be considering increasing your HDL levels to help your heart health.
However, increasing HDL cholesterol alone may be challenging.
As mentioned earlier, fish oil contains both EPA and DHA.
Some fish oil or omega-3 supplements may contain different amounts of these two nutrients.
However, fish oil supplements containing EPA and DHA may slightly raise LDL cholesterol.
Smaller LDL particles are known to contribute to the accumulation of plaque in arteries.
The magnitude of change in triglycerides may influence the effects of fish oil on LDL cholesterol.
Significant triglyceride decreases may contribute to increased LDL cholesterol observed with fish oil supplements.
Ultimately, additional research is needed to fully understand fish oil’s effects on LDL cholesterol.
What Is Fish Oil?
The main components of fish oil are DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids.
EPA and DHA are long-chain fatty acids because their structure comprises multiple molecules.
The AHA recommends 2 to 4 grams of DHA and EPA fish oil daily.
Benefits appear to be dose-dependent, up to 4 grams daily.
Moreover, the 4-gram dosage appears more effective than the 2-gram dosage in people with high triglyceride levels.
Prescription fish oil contains 0.5 to 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids per capsule.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Is Fish Oil Safe for Me?
Fish is a major, common allergen.
Avoid fish oil if you’re allergic to it or its components (parts).
One more serious potentialside effect of fish oilisatrial fibrillation(irregular heartbeat).
The risk of atrial fibrillation may depend on your individual medical history.
Higher doses of fish oil may increase the risk of atrial fibrillation.
Precautions
Fatty fish is safe and encouraged during pregnancy.
One serving is four ounces of precooked fish.
King mackerel has a high mercury content.
It is recommended that people who are pregnant avoid king mackerel.
Supplements should contain 250 milligrams (mg) of DHA, well below the therapeutic amount for cholesterol.
People with very high LDL cholesterol should consult their healthcare provider before taking fish oil.
Fish oils, particularly those containing DHA, may increase LDL cholesterol.
Prescription fish oil supplementsare more closely regulated than over-the-counter fish oil.
The American Heart Association recommends prescription fish oil for people with elevated triglyceride levels looking to lower cholesterol.
Alternative Ways to Lower Your Cholesterol
Lifestyle and dietary modifications canlower cholesterol.
Food, movement, stress management, medications, and supplements affect cholesterol.
It’s important to speak with your healthcare provider about other options you may be considering.
Summary
Significant evidence indicates fish oil lowers triglyceride levels.
However, its effects on LDL and HDL cholesterol are less clear.
The decision to take fish oil is nuanced and should be made with your healthcare provider.
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