Heart disease
One study followed 11,000 people who took an 850-mg dose of combined EPA and DHA every day for 3.5 years. They experienced a 25% reduction in heart attacks and a 45% reduction in sudden death.
The American Heart Association, among other organizations, recommends that people with coronary heart disease take 1,000 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily, while those with high triglycerides take 2,000–4,000 mg daily.
However, several large reviews have not found any beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids on heart disease.
Depression and anxiety
Studies suggest that high doses of omega-3, ranging from 200–2,200 mg per day, can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety (12Trusted Source, 13, 14Trusted Source.
In cases of mood and mental disorders, a supplement with higher amounts of EPA than DHA may be optimal.
Cancer
A high intake of fish and omega-3 fatty acids has been linked to a reduced risk of breast, prostate, and colon cancers.
One study followed 11,000 people who took an 850-mg dose of combined EPA and DHA every day for 3.5 years. They experienced a 25% reduction in heart attacks and a 45% reduction in sudden death.
The American Heart Association, among other organizations, recommends that people with coronary heart disease take 1,000 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily, while those with high triglycerides take 2,000–4,000 mg daily.
However, several large reviews have not found any beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids on heart disease.
Depression and anxiety
Studies suggest that high doses of omega-3, ranging from 200–2,200 mg per day, can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety (12Trusted Source, 13, 14Trusted Source.
In cases of mood and mental disorders, a supplement with higher amounts of EPA than DHA may be optimal.
Cancer
A high intake of fish and omega-3 fatty acids has been linked to a reduced risk of breast, prostate, and colon cancers.