Optimal Omega-3 Dose Discovered?

Researchers may have determined the ideal dose of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid believed to boost heart health. In a recent small study, the scientists concluded 200 mg of DHA per day may help stave off cardiovascular problems.

For the study, 12 healthy male volunteers (ages 53 to 65) took 200, 400, 800, or 1,600 mg of DHA in supplement form daily for two weeks for each dose amount. In analyzing blood and urine samples from the participants, the researchers found that 200 mg of DHA was enough to guard against certain cardiovascular events. The study's authors suggest that a daily DHA dose of 200 mg may help shield the heart from atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in the arteries), aging-related damage, and diabetes.

In past studies, omega-3s have been shown to protect against depression, seasonal allergies, and arthritis. Not only available in supplement form, omega-3s are found naturally in oily fish like salmon and mackerel.