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Clinical Updates
Fish Oil /Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements
Fish Oil for Menopause?
9/24/2020
Can taking fish oil reduce symptoms of menopause? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of our Fish Oil Supplements Review, and see our Top Picks for fish oil. Also see our Menopause Supplements Review for information about other supplements for menopause.
Fish Oil and Eye Bleeding
9/21/2020
Can high-dose fish oil increase the risk of bleeding in the eye? Get the details of a recently reported case in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Fish Oil Supplements review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Fish Oil During Pregnancy
9/11/2020
Does taking fish oil during pregnancy lead to cognitive benefits in children? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Fish Oil Slows Atherosclerosis
8/31/2020
A highly-concentrated prescription fish oil was shown to significantly reduce the progression of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) in people with high triglycerides, according to a recent study. Get the details in the Prescription Fish Oil vs. Supplements section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Fish Oil for Arthritis?
7/27/2020
Fish oil has shown modest benefits in rheumatoid arthritis, but can it help with osteoarthritis -- inflammation due to worn joints? Find out what a recently published study showed in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Omega-3s and the Brain
7/20/2020
To raise levels of DHA and EPA in the brain, large doses are needed according to a recent study. Even larger doses are needed by people with a gene associated with increased risk of Alzheimer's. While the study did not show an effect on people's cognitive scores, it may help explain why some studies with fish oil show little effect. For details, see the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among fish oils.
Fish Oil for Improved Insulin Sensitivity?
6/22/2020
Fish oil was given for three months to people with decreased sensitivity to insulin. Did it improve insulin sensitivity? Find out in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among fish oil supplements.
Benefit of Eating Fish
6/13/2020
Increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids through greater fish intake was shown to provide some cognitive improvements to children according to a recent study. For details, see the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil and Top Picks for canned tuna and salmon (good sources of omega-3s).
Generic Fish Oil Approved
5/22/2020
The first generic version of icosapent ethyl (Vascepa) was recently approved by the FDA. But don’t expect it on the market soon. See the details in the prescription omega-3s section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review, which includes comparisons with fish oil supplements. Also see our Top Picks for fish oils, including highly concentrated versions.
Does Fish Oil or Curcumin Increase Brain Blood Flow?
5/01/2020
A study among people ages 50 to 80 evaluated the effects of fish oil and curcumin on blood flow to the brain and on other aspects of cardiovascular function. See the results in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review and the Curcumin Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil and curcumin.
A Food to Slow Cognitive Decline?
4/13/2020
Adherence to a Mediterranean diet was associated with a lower risk of cognitive impairment in a major new study, but only one food within that diet -- fish -- was also linked to slower loss of cognitive function. Find out how many servings of fish had the greatest impact in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see if fish oil supplements help and see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Also see our Top Picks for canned tuna and salmon.
Also see our Top Picks for canned tuna and salmon.
EPA vs. DHA from Fish Oil
3/17/2020
Some marine-based oils are higher in either EPA or DHA – key omega-3 fatty acids -- but does it matter? See what a recent study found in the What to Consider When Buying section of the Fish and Marine Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among fish and marine oils.
Fish Oil and Heart Disease
3/06/2020
Many studies have assessed the potential benefits of taking fish oil supplements. Results have been conflicting, but one of the largest and longest-term studies was recently published. See what it found in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our general recommendations for using fish oil for heart health and check out our Top Picks for fish oil supplements.
Fish Oil for Diabetes?
2/10/2020
There is mixed evidence as to whether fish oil helps people who have diabetes. Get the details, including those of a new study, in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Avoid Quality Problems With Fish Oil
2/06/2020
Nearly half of 17 popular fish oil supplements tested in a recently published study did not meet at least one of the quality criteria for freshness or content. Interestingly, two that passed testing were Approved by ConsumerLab, but none that failed were CL Approved. For details, see the Quality Concerns section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish and marine oils.
Fish Oil & Fertility
1/20/2020
Is there a relationship between taking fish oil and sperm count? See what a recent study in men found in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Fish Oils Not Equal on Cardio Benefit
1/17/2020
High-dose, highly-concentrated fish oil is known to lower triglycerides in people with elevated levels. One prescription product was even shown to lower the risk of cardiovascular events in such people. However, a clinical trial of another fish oil was recently stopped due to its low likelihood of providing this benefit. Learn how these products differ and how fish oil supplements compare to them in the Prescription Fish Oil vs. Supplements section of the Fish Oil Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil and other marine omega-3 supplements.
Fish Oil Approved for Elevated Triglycerides
12/16/2019
A highly concentrated fish oil that was originally approved only for treating very high triglycerides has been further approved by the FDA to treat lower, but still elevated, triglycerides if cardiovascular risk factors are present. For details see the Prescription Fish Oil vs. Supplements section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oils, including highly concentrated fish oil.
Fish Oil for ADHD?
12/16/2019
Fish Oil & Colon Cancer
11/25/2019
Fish Oil Can Reduce Cognitive Decline
11/18/2019
Another study has shown that supplementing with high-dose omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil can reduce cognitive decline in certain people. For details, see the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among fish oils.
Fish Oil Plus Statins for High Triglycerides
11/14/2019
How to Use Fish Oil for Depression
10/17/2019
Guidelines have been published for using fish oil to treat major depressive disorder. For details, see the Depression section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Fish Oil to Improve Cognition?
10/07/2019
See the results of the most recent study of fish oil to improve memory and cognition in the Memory Enhancement section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Omega-3s for Cognition?
9/16/2019
Several studies have attempted to boost cognition and memory in healthy people using omega-3 supplements from fish or krill oil. Find out if they succeeded, including a recent study among adolescents, in the Memory Enhancement in Healthy Individuals section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among products.
Fish Oil in Pregnancy?
9/16/2019
Several studies have evaluated the effects of taking fish oil during pregnancy, including a recent study seeking a reduction in premature births. Find out if fish oil helps in the During Pregnancy: Effects on Children section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Best Supplement for Depression
9/09/2019
Which supplement has the strongest evidence of benefit for treating mental disorders? The answer is a particular form of fish oil to treat depression, according to a new analysis. For details, see the Depression section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among products.
Omega-3s for Lowering Triglycerides
8/20/2019
Elevated triglycerides ("hypertriglyceridemia") is increasingly common in the US. High-dose omega-3s from fish oil can help, and the American Heart Association recently updated its advice about this. For details, and to learn how prescription omega-3 compares to supplements, see the Dosage section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oils, including highly concentrated fish oils.
Adding Fish Oil to Statins?
7/01/2019
Does adding high-dose fish oil help reduce triglycerides in people who already take statins? See the results of a new study in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among fish oils.
Fish Oil Heart Claim
6/28/2019
You'll start seeing a new heart health claim on fish oil supplements as well as foods that provide the omega-3's EPA and DHA. While legal, the claim is a bit fishy. Get the details in the Fish Oil Supplements Review as well as the Canned Tuna and Salmon Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil supplements and canned fish.
Fish Oil for Heart Failure?
6/17/2019
Can taking fish oil improve heart function in people with chronic heart failure? See the results of a recent study (and find out what type of fish oil was used) in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oils.
Statins Plus Fish Oil?
5/06/2019
Does high-dose fish oil provide additional coronary benefit to people already taking a statin drug? Find out in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among fish oils.
Fish Oil During Pregnancy
4/22/2019
Does taking fish oil during pregnancy yield children with higher IQs? Find out what studies are showing in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil supplements and other sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Powerful Combination for Alzheimer's
4/08/2019
Fish oil can help people with Alzheimer's disease but, as a new study suggests, only when they are getting enough of another nutrient. Get the details in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among products.
Prescription Fish Oil Lowers Heart Attack Risk
3/18/2019
A prescription fish oil was found to lower the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke by 30% in people at high risk. For details, see the Prescription Fish Oil vs. Supplements section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil supplements.
Bioengineered Salmon Approved
3/11/2019
As of this month, genetically engineered salmon can be legally sold in the U.S. Learn how it compares to other salmon in terms of EPA and DHA in the Farmed vs. Wild Salmon section of our Fish Oil Review. (Also see the results of our tests of canned fish in the separate Canned Tuna and Canned Salmon Review.)
Fish Oil for Asthma?
1/25/2019
Can high-dose fish oil help people with asthma? See what a study recently found in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Maintaining Muscle With Fish Oil?
1/11/2019
Can taking fish oil prevent muscle loss when a limb is immobilized, such as in a brace? Find out what a recent study showed in the "Strength and Muscle" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.)
Fish Oil Bleeding Risk?
12/08/2018
Does taking fish oil increase the risk of bleeding? See the latest evidence in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oils).
Better Absorbed Fish Oil?
11/24/2018
A specially formulated fish oil was shown to be absorbed better than regular fish oil. A closer look at the study, however, suggests that this benefit may be limited. Learn more, as well as how you can maximize fish oil absorption, in the How to Take section of the Fish & Marine Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for fish oil supplements.)
High EPA Fish Oil Lowers Cardiovascular Risk for Some
11/10/2018
Taking high-dose, high-EPA fish oil (Vascepa) was found lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by 25% among people with elevated triglycerides in a major new study. Get the details in the What It Does section of the new Fish Oil Review. (Also see how fish oil supplements compare to Vascepa.)
Mixed Results for EPA/DHA Fish Oil
11/10/2018
Concentrated EPA/DHA fish oil given daily to a cross-section of Americans was not found to lower the risk of cancer or cardiovascular disease except for those with low fish intake and for African-Americans. See the details in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see which supplements are comparable to the fish oil in the study.
DHA for Toddlers?
10/26/2018
Does giving the omega-3 fatty acid DHA to 1-year-olds born pre-term lead to improvements in cognitive development? Find out in the recent update to the What It Does section of the Fish Oil & Omega-3 Supplements Review -- and learn whether DHA use by pregnant women yields benefits for their children. (Also see our Top Picks for DHA.)
Omega-3s & Healthy Aging
10/19/2018
Do higher blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids (as obtained from fish and/or fish oil) correlate with healthier aging? See what a new study found in our updates to the Fish Oil Supplements Review and the Canned Tuna and Salmon Review.
Fish Oil Drug May Help
9/24/2018
High doses of fish oil highly-concentrated in EPA and/or DHA are known to lower elevated triglycerides. But can they reduce the risk of cardiac events, such as heart attack? Preliminary results from a new study suggest that one product can – at least in certain people. Get the details in the Prescription Fish Oil vs. Supplements section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil supplements.)
Anxiety and Fish Oil
9/13/2018
An analysis of clinical trials with fish oil looked at whether supplementation was associated with decreased anxiety. See the results in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil and other omega-3 supplements.)
Fish Oil & Diabetes
9/03/2018
In a major study, fish oil was given to people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes for several years to see if it would reduce serious cardiovascular events, like heart attacks and stroke. Find out what happened in the Heart Attack and Stroke section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil supplements.)
Dry Eye, Fish Oil and Contact Lenses
7/27/2018
Taking fish oil can help people with dry eye and it was recently studied for dry eye associated with wearing contact lenses. Find out what the recent study found and learn more about fish oil for dry eye in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil & Omega-3 Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil supplements.)
Fish Oil for Heart Health?
7/20/2018
Are fish oil supplements good for the heart? See what a review of over 70 clinical trials concluded in the Heart Attack and Stroke section of the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Supplements Review.
Also, learn what fish oil can or cannot do for other health conditions, such as arthritis, in the What It Does section of the review. (See our Top Picks among fish and marine oils.)
Also, learn what fish oil can or cannot do for other health conditions, such as arthritis, in the What It Does section of the review. (See our Top Picks among fish and marine oils.)
Fish Oil for Depression?
7/12/2018
Several studies have evaluated omega-3 fatty acids to decrease the severity of depression. Find out if it works in the Depression section of the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil supplements.)
Krill Oil for Strength?
6/04/2018
Evidence from several studies suggests that fish oil can help modestly improve muscular strength and/or endurance and enhance the effects of training. A recent study investigated whether krill oil can do the same. See the results in the What It Does section of the Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Fish, Krill, and Algal Oils). Also see our Top Picks among products in this category.
Eat Fish for Heart Health
5/21/2018
The American Heart Association recently affirmed that eating fish may help to reduce the risk of cardiac death, coronary heart disease, and ischemic stroke. However, the same cannot be said for fish oil supplements. Get the details in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also, stay tuned: ConsumerLab is currently testing popular brands of canned tuna and salmon to assess their purity and levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
Fish Oil for Joints
5/14/2018
See what happened when high-dose fish oil was given for a year to older men and women in the Arthritis and Other Inflammatory Diseases section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among fish oils and other omega-3 supplements.
Fish Oil for Cognition?
4/20/2018
Does giving older people a high dose of fish oil help them with memory and thinking? A recent study helped answer this question. Get the answer and details in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review.
Fish Oil for Dry Eye?
4/13/2018
A major study evaluated the effects of supplementing with the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in people with dry eye. Get the results and details in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil supplements).
Fish Oil for Ulcerative Colitis
2/12/2018
A special formulation of high-dose fish oil was found to help people with ulcerative colitis remain in remission in a placebo-controlled study. It also reduced levels of a key marker of inflammation. For details, see the Arthritis and Other Inflammatory Diseases section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review.
Disheartening Fish Oil News
2/02/2018
Another report was published this week showing no cardiovascular benefit from fish oil supplementation. You can get the details in the Heart Attack and Stroke section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Fish oil may provide cardiovascular benefit in limited situations, as explained in the Review.
A Reason to Take Fish Oil With Statins?
1/22/2018
It's well known that high-dose fish oil can lower elevated triglycerides. But can it help people already on a statin drug? A recent clinical trial answered this question. Get the details, including the dose of fish oil used, in the "Heart Attack and Stroke section of the Fish Oil Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products.)
Can Fish Oil Help Statins?
12/19/2017
Adding fish oil to cholesterol-lowering statin therapy was found to provide added benefit in certain situations. See the details, including dosage of EPA and DHA, in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review > (Also see our Top Picks for fish oil supplements).
Fish Oil for Stress?
12/04/2017
A recent study investigated whether taking fish oil rich in the omega-3 fatty acid EPA would reduce chronic stress. See the results in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil for Focus in Kids?
10/30/2017
Fish oil supplementation was shown to improve executive functioning in children, according to a study that focused on children with mood disorders. For details, see the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplements Review >> [Also see our Top Picks for fish oil supplements in the Review.]
Fish Oil for Endurance
7/28/2017
High-dose fish oil may help to increase exercise endurance, according to a new study, adding to evidence of other beneficial effects of fish oil on muscle mass and strength. For details, see the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among products.
Fish Oil for Depression
7/18/2017
A number of studies have reported on whether taking fish oil can help with depression. The most recent study found a benefit using an amount and type of fish oil generally in-line with what other studies suggest works best. See the details in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Review. The Review includes our tests, comparisons, and Top Picks for products.
Fat Fish vs. Lean Fish
7/11/2017
If you are trying to control your blood sugar, it turns out that your choice of fish can make a difference. Learn more in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. The review includes our Top Picks among omega-3 supplements.
Spoiled Fish Oil Is Less Effective
6/06/2017
Spoiled fish oil does not lower LDL "bad" cholesterol, while the same amount of non-spoiled fish oil does, according to a new study. If you take fish oil to improve your cholesterol levels, it would seem best to use a product that is not spoiled – something ConsumerLab tests for. (It may also be best to choose an oil in the triglyceride form, rather than the ethyl ester form). For details, see the "Quality Concerns" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among fish oils.
Omega-3s for Age-Related Cognitive Decline?
4/07/2017
A recent study found DHA and EPA from fish oil did not slow cogntive decline in older adults with cognitive difficulties. However, other studies suggest there may be a benefit if taken before the onset of cognitive decline or dementia. For details, see the "Age-Related Cognitive Decline" section of the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
DHA to Boost Children's IQ?
3/25/2017
Supplementing with DHA during pregnancy has been touted as a way to increase the IQ of offspring, but results published this week seem to quash that hope. However, there may be other benefits, particularly for women with normally low intake of DHA, as discussed in the section "During Pregnancy: Effects on Children” in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
DHA for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
3/24/2017
A new study tested DHA from microalgae as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. The results are mixed. For details, see the "Rheumatoid Arthritis" section of the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Supplements Review >>
When Does Fish Oil Help the Heart?
3/13/2017
There are new recommendations on the use of fish oil supplements with regard to preventing heart attack, stroke, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure. More about these recommendations and other uses of fish oil are found in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review (which includes our tests of products) >>
Omega-3s for Arthritis
1/30/2017
A review of twenty-two clinical studies using omega-3 fatty acid supplements from various marine sources (fish oil, mussel oil, etc.) found they could be effective in reducing rheumatoid arthritis pain, particularly when the oils had a certain ratio of EPA to DHA. The oils were not effective for osteoarthritis. For more details, see the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review (which includes our tests of products) >>
Omega-3s for Cognitive Decline
1/27/2017
Daily supplementation with the omega-3s DHA and EPA modestly improved cognitive function in older men and women with mild cognitive decline. Get the details in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review (which includes our tests of products) >>
Fish Oil and Bleeding Risk
1/19/2017
A recently reported tragic case highlights the concern over taking fish oil when on a blood-thinning medication. For more information, see the "Cautions and Concerns" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review (which includes our tests of products) >>
Fish Oil for Migraine
1/13/2017
Although the evidence to-date has been mixed on whether taking fish oil reduces migraine headaches, a recent placebo-controlled study showed a significant benefit for fish oil when taken along with a prescription medication. For details, see the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Reducing Asthma Risk in Children With Fish Oil
1/02/2017
A major new study showed that giving fish oil to pregnant women reduces the risk of asthma and wheezing in their offspring. For details, see the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Supplement vs. Prescription Fish Oil?
1/01/2017
As we have written before, by choosing an extremely concentrated fish oil supplement, you can get essentially the same type of fish oil as you would get from a prescription fish oil. But according to a recent study, fish oil supplements are more likely to be rancid (oxidized) than prescription fish oil. However, a closer look at the study by ConsumerLab staff suggests that this finding may be misleading, as explained in the "Quality Concerns" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil for Psychosis?
11/28/2016
no added benefit from giving fish oil in conjunction with other psychiatric therapy. For details, including dosage, see the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil for Strength?
11/18/2016
A daily dose of fish oil increased strength in women who did resistance exercise, but not in men, according to a new study. Get the details in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Omega-3s Drop in Farmed Salmon
10/07/2016
Farmed salmon has historically provided more omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) than wild salmon. But new research shows this is changing, as discussed in the "Farmed vs. Wild Salmon" section of the Fish Oil Review >>
Omega-3 and -6 Improves Reading Skills in Children
9/19/2016
A combination of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA plus an omega-6 fatty acid improved reading skills and comprehension in school-age children. For details, including dose, see the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil and Omega-3 and -7 Supplements Review >>
Omega-3s and Diabetic Eye Disease
8/22/2016
Getting the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA from eating fish is associated with a much lower risk of developing sight-threatening retinopathy in diabetics, according to a recently published study. The same benefit has been shown in non-diabetics. But do omega-3 supplements help? Find out in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil Helps After Heart Attack
8/01/2016
High-dose fish oil supplementation improved the heart's ability to pump blood in people recovering from a heart attack, a recent study found. Get the details in the "What It Does" section in our Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Fish Intake During Pregnancy Increases Child's IQ
7/15/2016
Consuming fish during pregnancy is associated with increased IQ in children, according to a recent study. Get the details in the Fish Oil and Omega-Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil & Antidepressants
5/09/2016
Several studies suggest that fish oil can help people suffering from major depression. A new study indicates that it can have additive benefit for people already taking a prescription antidepressant. The amount and type of omega-3’s seem to make a difference. Get the details in the "What It Does Section” of the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
How Fish Oil May Help With Depression
4/15/2016
Studies have shown that fish oil can help some people suffering from major depression. A recent study suggests how it may work. For details, see the ”What It Does” section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil and Blood Pressure
2/15/2016
As explained in our Fish Oil Review, fish oil supplements may not provide overall cardiovascular benefits – eating fish is better. However, a recent analysis found that a certain kind of fish oil may help people with high systolic blood pressure. For details, see the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplements Review >>
Sale of GMO Salmon Halted
2/09/2016
Although genetically engineered salmon has been approved for sale by the FDA, the agency recently announced sale of the salmon will not be permitted just yet. Get the details in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil Helps in Schizophrenia
1/25/2016
A study found that concentrated fish oil greatly reduced symptoms in more people who had recently experienced a first episode of schizophrenia than did a placebo. The greatest effect was on depressive symptoms, which is consistent with other studies which have shown fish oil to reduce depression, particularly in people who do not regularly eat fish.
This impact on depression has also been suggested as one reason why fish oil has shown some benefit in people with cognitive decline. Details about the studies and products used, including our tests and reviews of similar fish oil supplements, are found in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
This impact on depression has also been suggested as one reason why fish oil has shown some benefit in people with cognitive decline. Details about the studies and products used, including our tests and reviews of similar fish oil supplements, are found in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
Omega-3's and Cognition
1/16/2016
Studies in older individuals have shown that omega-3 fatty acid intake from fish oil may improve certain areas of mental functioning and reduce age-related cognitive decline. Benefits have also been found in younger individuals.
A study has been underway which evaluates the effects of krill oil in adolescents with lower educational performance. It was recently reported that baseline testing (before starting krill) of the students showed a positive association between levels of EPA + DHA in their blood and performance on some, but not all, measures of cognitive performance. Get the details in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>
A study has been underway which evaluates the effects of krill oil in adolescents with lower educational performance. It was recently reported that baseline testing (before starting krill) of the students showed a positive association between levels of EPA + DHA in their blood and performance on some, but not all, measures of cognitive performance. Get the details in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>
Genetically-engineered Salmon: How it Compares
11/20/2015
This week the FDA approved a genetically-engineered, farmed salmon as safe for consumption – but how do amounts of omega-3’s and hormones compare with non-genetically engineered salmon? Get the details in the update to the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>
Fish Oil Freshness
11/10/2015
50% of omega-3 fatty acid supplements recently purchased by researchers in Canada failed tests for freshness, exceeding limits for oxidation. Although the study raises some important issues, it also had significant shortcomings. Get the details in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>
Fish Oil for Depression
10/02/2015
A small study found that taking EPA and DHA daily significantly reduced depression in young men and women. Get the details, including dosage, plus our tests of popular products, in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Supplements Review >>
Does Fish Oil Slow Cognitive Decline?
8/28/2015
Results of a large U.S. study suggest that taking fish oil does not slow cognitive decline in the elderly. Before you nix fish oil for this purpose, be aware of an important caveat about the people in the study. Get the details about this and other studies of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as our tests of popular products, in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil and Alzheimer's Disease
7/03/2015
The evidence is mixed on whether fish oil can help people with Alzheimer's disease. A benefit was seen in a study reported last year, but a recently reported study found no benefit with fish oil combined with antioxidants. More details are found in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
Problem with Too Much Krill Oil
6/23/2015
Researchers recently gave overweight men a very large daily amount of krill oil (with a smaller amount of fish oil) with the hope it would improve their insulin sensitivity. Unfortunately, the opposite happened, suggesting that the oil could increase the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Details about the study, including dosage, are found in the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>
Fish Oil for Dry Eye
6/23/2015
A large study of computer-using young men and women experiencing dry eye found that fish oil significantly improved symptoms. Benefits have also been reported in postmenopausal women with dry eye. Details, including dosage, are found in the "What It Does" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil Increases Muscle/Strength
5/23/2015
Last week we reported that vitamin D could help increase strength -- this week it's fish oil. A recent study found that taking a high dose of fish oil led to increases in muscle and strength in older individuals -- without additional exercise. As reported earlier, a lower of dose of fish oil may improve results of exercise. For the details, including specifics about the fish oil used, see the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Treating ADHD with Omega-3s?
5/12/2015
A new study giving boys omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) showed modest improvement in an important aspect of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. For details about this and other studies with omega-3 fatty acid supplements, as well as our tests of products, see the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
Fish Intake and Breast Cancer Risk
5/12/2015
Women with breast cancer who consumed the most fish had a lower risk of death compared to women who did not eat fish, a new study reports. Get the details, plus evidence for the use of fish oil supplements to reduce the risk of breast and prostate cancer, and our tests of popular products in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplements Review >>
Avoid Fish Oil When Getting Chemotherapy
4/07/2015
A series of studies in mice and people suggest that fish oil from supplements, and consumed from certain fish, can interfere with chemotherapy. More details are in the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Green Lipped Mussel Oil Reduces Pain and Inflammation After Exercise
3/05/2015
Green-lipped mussel oil (a source of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA) significantly reduced pain and inflammation days after exercise in young healthy men, compared to a placebo, according to a new study. For details, and ConsumerLab.com tests of the product used in the study, see the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
Lower-dose Fish Oil Helps with Epilepsy
9/23/2014
A small, but well-controlled study of people with drug-resistant epilepsy found that a modest dose of fish oil significantly reduced the frequency of seizures while a higher dose did not. The researchers note a possible explanation why the lower dose was more effective than the higher dose. Find out the details, including the dose and exact type of fish oil used, in the update to the Fish Oil Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil May Prevent Cognitive Decline
7/15/2014
A study of older individuals found that cognitive function and brain volume (size) were better preserved among those who reported using fish oil supplements than those who did not. The effect, however, was only seen in certain groups of people. For more about the study, and our tests and comparisons of fish oil supplements, see the updated Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>
DHA for Periodontitis (Inflammation Around Teeth)
7/15/2014
A new study found that giving DHA (from algal oil) along with low-dose aspirin led to greater reductions in local inflammation and pocketing around teeth than aspirin plus placebo. For more about the study, including dosage, and our tests and comparisons of algal oil supplements, see the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>
Don't Be Fooled by "Good Source of Omega-3s" Claim
7/09/2014
Over the years, ConsumerLab.com has pointed out that products sometimes claim to provide a percentage of the Daily Value (DV) of omega-3 or -6 fatty acids, even though no such Daily Value has been established. Now, the FDA has prohibited certain related statements on omega-3 supplement and food labels that could mislead consumers into thinking a product provides some percentage of this imaginary amount. Get the details, including what to watch out for on labels, plus our tests of fish oil and other omega-3 fatty acid supplements, in the updated Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>
Fish Oil May Reduce Risk of Blood Clots
6/06/2014
A study of more than 20,000 people found that those who ate fish several times per week had a reduced risk of venous blood clots, and that getting additional fish oil from supplements reduced the risk even further. Get the details, including our tests of fish oil and other omega-3 supplements in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>
Help for Acne from Omega-3 & -6 Oils
6/06/2014
A small clinical study found daily supplementation with either omega-3 fatty acids or an omega-6 fatty acid from borage oil significantly reduced the number and severity of acne outbreaks. Get the details, including dosage, and our tests of supplements containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >> and the Flaxseed Oil, Evening Primrose, Borage and Seed Oil Supplements Review >>
Does Fish Oil Help During Pregnancy?
5/02/2014
A recent study shows that, at age 4, children born to women given DHA-rich fish oil during pregnancy do not fare better cognitively than other children. Other positive effects around the time of birth, however, suggest that supplementation may be worthwhile. For details, as well as our tests of fish oil supplements, see the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>
Fish Oil Lowers Blood Pressure
3/27/2014
Fatty acids from fish and fish oil may reduce blood pressure, particularly in those with high blood pressure, according to a recently published review. For details, information about other uses of fish oil, and our tests of fish oil supplements, see the updated Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil Study Finds No Heart Benefit
3/22/2014
Findings of a large study reported this week showed that a daily fish oil supplement did not reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in elderly people. So what's the bottom line for fish oil and heart disease? See the update to the Fish Oil Supplements Review, which includes the latest information about potential uses of fish oil and our tests of popular fish oil supplements.
Fish Oil / Alpha-Lipoic Acid for Alzheimer's
1/30/2014
A new study found that fish oil and alpha-lipoic acid can slow cognitive and functional decline in people with Alzheimer's disease. Get the details in the Fish/Marine Oil Supplements Review >> and the Alpha-Lipoic Acid Supplements Review >>
Too Much Fish Oil May Cause Adverse Effects
11/02/2013
Recent animal studies using EPA and DHA from fish oil suggest that very high intakes may dampen immunity. Might you be getting too much? Find out in the update to the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review>>
Fish Oil and Arthritis
9/20/2013
A study of several thousand women found those who consumed at least a moderate of amount omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) from fish in their diets had just half the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis over the course of the study than did women with lower intakes. For details about the amount of omega-3’s and fish consumption associated with preventing arthritis, other uses of omega-3’s, and tests of fish/marine oil supplements, see the Fish/Marine Oil Supplements Review>>
Fish Oil Linked to Prostate Cancer?
7/13/2013
Headlines this week about a study showing an association between the fatty acids in fish oil and the development of prostate cancer have stirred concerns about consuming fish and fish oil supplements. For details about this study and studies of other effects of fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as test results and comparisons for 74 fish and other marine oil supplements, see the updated Fish/Marine Oil (Omega-3) Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil for Brain Function
7/06/2013
Healthy people, ages 50 to 75, given a specific fish oil supplement for 6 months experienced significant gains in their performance on visual tasks, reading, and verbal fluency in a recent placebo-controlled study. Brain scans also showed significant gains in the structure and volume of tissue in several areas of the brain. For details about the type and dose of fish oil taken, as well as test results and comparisons for 74 fish and other marine oil supplements, see the updated Fish/Marine Oil (Omega-3) Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil and Stress
6/15/2013
A new study shows that fish oil may slightly blunt some of the effects of mental stress. Get the details, plus our quality ratings of 74 supplements, in the updated Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
Fish Oil No Help for Heart Disease?
5/18/2013
A new study found that taking a fish oil supplement did not reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in people with multiple risk factors for heart disease. But this doesn't tell the whole story. Get the bottom line on fish oil for heart disease and test results for over 70 fish oil supplements, in the updated Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >>
Omega-3s Linked to Less Heart Disease and Longer Life
4/06/2013
A study among older individuals who did not use fish oil supplements showed that those with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood were far less likely to have a heart attack or arrhythmia and were 27% less likely to die during the 14-year study. The reserchers calculated how much EPA and DHA a person should consume to reach this higher blood level and noted that further increases yeild little additional benefit. Get the details, as well as how to get omega-3s from foods, in the updated Fish Oil Supplements Review »
What You Need to Know About Fish Oil
3/09/2013
Most fish oil in supplements is not natural, but is a semi-synthetic form. This affects how much you absorb and new research is revealing other differences. Time to throw out what you take, or switch brands? Probably not, but if you use fish oil, it's worth knowing about these differences. Get the details in the update to the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, and Calamari Oil) >>
Stroke and Fish Oil
11/17/2012
An analysis of 38 studies concluded that eating fish regularly is associated with fewer strokes, but fish oil supplements do not seem to help. Interestingly, the type of fish and how it is prepared seem to make all the difference. For details, including what fish oil supplements can or cannot do, see the updated Fish Oil & Marine Oil (Omega-3) Supplements Review. More >>
Fish Oil Helps Memory
10/27/2012
A small study of healthy young women and men found that those with the highest levels of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA in their red blood cells scored better on a memory test than those with lower levels. After six months of supplementation with a certain fish oil supplement, scores improved -- particularly among those whose DHA levels had been lowest. See the Fish Oil (Omega-3) Supplements Review for details about this study, the particular supplement used, what fish oil can and cannot do, and our quality ratings of products. More >>
What's the Best Omega-3 for Depression?
10/13/2012
Recent studies suggest the relative amounts of EPA and DHA in a supplement help determine whether or not it will improve symptoms of depression. Get the details, as well as our tests of 63 omega-3 supplements, in the updated Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, and Calamari Oil). More >>
Fish Oil Benefit Questioned
9/15/2012
There are many potential benefits from supplementing with the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, but the most widely-touted benefits -- reducing the risks of heart disease and stroke -- are now in doubt. Read about the latest studies in the update to the Fish Oil (EPA & DHA) Supplements Review, which includes our product tests and quality ratings. More >>
Fish Oil for Strokes and Heart Attacks?
6/23/2012
A recent study with fish oil supplements found no reduction in strokes and heart attacks among people with diabetes and poor glucose control. Does this mean fish oil doesn't help with cardiovascular disease? Not necessarily. See the updated Fish Oil (Omega-3) Supplements Review. More >>
Heart Benefits of Fish Oil Supplements in Doubt
4/21/2012
A review of the latest studies finds no conclusive evidence that fish oil supplements help people hoping to prevent another heart attack or stroke. It also remains unclear if fish oil provides cardiovascular benefits for healthy individuals. Find out what people concerned about heart disease should do, the other potential benefits of fish oil supplements, and our tests of supplements on the market in the updated Fish Oil Supplements Review. More >>
Fish Oil Tested for Multiple Sclerosis
4/21/2012
Fish oil supplements are often taken by multiple sclerosis patients with the hope that omega-3 fatty acids can improve their condition, but a new study suggests fish oil supplements may not provide benefit. For details, including the dose used, see the updated information in the Fish Oil Supplements Review. More >>
Fish Oil During Pregnancy Reduces Allergy in Infants
2/04/2012
Last year we reported important findings from a study of fish oil given to pregnant women. A further analysis of that study shows another benefit of daily fish oil for pregnant women -- their babies have nearly a 40% lower risk of egg allergies. A lower risk of eczema was also found, although this association did not hold after adjusting the data for certain factors. See the update to the Fish Oil Supplements Review, which includes details on this study, the type and amount of fish oil taken, and our latest product tests.
Fish Oil for Strength
1/14/2012
A recent study of women in their 60's suggests that taking fish oil when strength-training leads to greater improvements in strength than training alone. Women who took fish oil were not only stronger but had a greater functional capacity, such as being able to rise faster from a chair. For the type and dose of fish oil taken, and more details, see the update to the Fish Oil Supplements Review, which includes the latest product tests.
Algal Oil vs. Fish Oil
12/19/2011
Fish get their omega-3's from algae and many people are now doing the same by taking algal oil, but how does it compare to fish oil? Experts recently reviewed studies of algal oil and concluded that it boosts ("good") cholesterol but it also increases LDL cholesterol -- which is often thought of as "bad" cholesterol. But there's more to the story. Get the details in the recently updated Fish/Marine Oil Supplements Review, which includes our test results for algal, krill, and fish oil supplements.
Concern with Rancid Fish Oil
12/12/2011
As our tests have shown, some fish oils are spoiled by the time you buy them. Spoilage produces a variety of compounds. You can smell and taste some of these (if you take the oil directly by spoon, for example) but others you cannot. An expert panel recently reported on the safety of consuming rancid fish oil. See their conclusions in the Fish/Marine Oil Supplements Review, which includes our test results.
Fish Oil's Impact on Cognitive Decline
10/03/2011
Cognitive decline may be a normal part of aging, but a new study suggests that high-dose fish oil particularly rich in DHA may provide some benefit. In people over age 65 with mild cognitive impairment, fish oil was associated with improved verbal skill. Perhaps as important, fish oil also reduced depressive symptoms, which can be a risk factor in the progression to dementia. Get the details, including how much DHA and EPA was used in the study, in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplement Review. More >>
Suicide and Omega-3
8/30/2011
A new study found the risk of suicide was 62% higher among people with low levels of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA in their blood as compared to those with higher levels. An update to the Fish Oil Supplements Review includes the details. More >>
Fish Oil and Anxiety
8/06/2011
A study using a specially concentrated fish oil supplement showed a 20% reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to placebo. An update to the Fish Oil Supplements Review includes the dose and type of fish oil used. More >>
DHA in Pregnancy
8/06/2011
The omega-3 fatty acid, DHA, is known to be important to fetal development and is recommended for pregnant woman. A new study suggests that DHA during pregnancy may reduce early colds in some infants. An update to the Fish Oil Supplements Review includes the dose and type of DHA used. More >>
Fish Oil Helps Treat Depression
5/21/2011
A recent study showed that fish oil taken daily was associated with a remission of depression in 41% of people taking the supplement. The patients were women in a nursing home setting. The dose given was fairly high but treatment was well tolerated. The amounts of EPA and DHA taken daily and more information are found in our Product Review of Fish Oil Supplements. More >>
Did you hear that DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid in fish oil) might raise the risk of prostate cancer?
5/08/2011
This was recently in the news. Higher levels of DHA in the blood were associated with increased risk of high-grade prostate cancer. However, the findings do not mean that you should stop taking fish oil or eating fish. We talked with the researcher of this study and learned more. Get the facts in our Fish Oil Supplements Review. More >>
Fish Oil and the Eye
4/09/2011
A study of over 30,000 women showed that the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) was reduced by up to 42% among those consuming the most fish and highest amounts of omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. Find out the specific types and amounts of fish and the amounts of DHA and EPA associated with the greatest reductions in the risk of AMD. See the Fish Oil Supplements Review for more >>
Fish Oil Helps in Chemotherapy
3/08/2011
A recent study in lung cancer patients showed that those using fish oil supplementation during initial chemotherapy tended to maintain their muscle and total weight while those who did not lost 5 lbs of weight on average (2.2 lbs of which was muscle). See the Fish Oil (Omega-3) Product Review for more details, including the dosage used. More >>
