Some studies have found that taking moderate doses of fish oil could enhance sleep quality.
One study of 395 children, for instance, showed that taking 600 mg of omega-3 fatty acids daily for 16 weeks helped improve sleep quality.
In some cases, though, taking too much fish oil may actually interfere with sleep and contribute to insomnia.
In one case study, it was reported that taking a high dose of fish oil worsened symptoms of insomnia and anxiety for a patient with a history of depression.
However, current research is limited to case studies and anecdotal reports.
More research is needed to understand how large doses may affect sleep quality in the general population.
Although moderate doses of fish oil have been shown to improve sleep quality, one case study suggests that taking large amounts caused insomnia.
How Much Is Too Much?
Although recommendations can vary widely, most health organizations recommend an intake of at least 250–500 milligrams of combined EPA and DHA, the two essential forms of omega-3 fatty acids, per day (24Trusted Source, 25Trusted Source.
However, a higher amount is often recommended for people with certain health conditions, such as heart disease or high triglyceride levels.
For reference, a typical 1,000-mg fish oil softgel generally contains about 250 mg of combined EPA and DHA, while one teaspoon (5 ml) of liquid fish oil packs in around 1,300 mg.
According to the European Food Safety Authority, omega-3 fatty acid supplements can be safely consumed at doses up to 5,000 mg daily.
One study of 395 children, for instance, showed that taking 600 mg of omega-3 fatty acids daily for 16 weeks helped improve sleep quality.
In some cases, though, taking too much fish oil may actually interfere with sleep and contribute to insomnia.
In one case study, it was reported that taking a high dose of fish oil worsened symptoms of insomnia and anxiety for a patient with a history of depression.
However, current research is limited to case studies and anecdotal reports.
More research is needed to understand how large doses may affect sleep quality in the general population.
Although moderate doses of fish oil have been shown to improve sleep quality, one case study suggests that taking large amounts caused insomnia.
How Much Is Too Much?
Although recommendations can vary widely, most health organizations recommend an intake of at least 250–500 milligrams of combined EPA and DHA, the two essential forms of omega-3 fatty acids, per day (24Trusted Source, 25Trusted Source.
However, a higher amount is often recommended for people with certain health conditions, such as heart disease or high triglyceride levels.
For reference, a typical 1,000-mg fish oil softgel generally contains about 250 mg of combined EPA and DHA, while one teaspoon (5 ml) of liquid fish oil packs in around 1,300 mg.
According to the European Food Safety Authority, omega-3 fatty acid supplements can be safely consumed at doses up to 5,000 mg daily.