Fish Oil

Fish Oil contains DHA and EPA which are Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish help balance the Omega-6 fatty acids found in mostly vegetable oils. 

Five Facts on Fish Oil Supplements: 

Improves sperm motility and the overall health of sperm
Promotes blood to the uterus and regulates the menstrual cycle
Fish oil can cause a vitamin E deficiency and is often added to fish oil supplements
Fish oil is better absorbed with a meal that contains some fat
Recommended Fertility Dose: DHA  550 mg; EPA 80 mg with meals.

Fish oil is beneficial in a number of ways, including anti-inflammatory activity, fatty acid imbalance, and immune function. 

Male infertility is often correlated with an omega-3 deficiency, fish oil may improve sperm motility (the ability of sperm to properly move towards an egg) and the overall health of sperm. In women, fish oil can be beneficial by improving blood flow to the uterus, regulating menstrual cycle, and regulating hormones.

Most people can obtain the adequate amount of fish oil needed in a balanced diet that includes fish. However, fish oil supplements can be used instead.

Food Sources of Fish Oil:

The best and easiest food sources of fish oil is from fatty fish such as:

• mackerel
• salmon
• eel
• albacore tuna
• herring
• sardines
• sablefish
• anchovies
• bluefish
• catfish
• carp
• striped sea bass
• halibut
• lake trout.  

Cod liver oil is also a good source of fish oil.

Omega-3 fatty acids can also be found in:

• flaxseed oil
• walnuts
• soybean oil
• canola oil.

Supplements:

Most fish oil contains about 18% EPA, 12% DHA, and 30% Omega-3 fatty acids.  

Most people on a western diet do not obtain enough of EPA, DHA or Omega-3 fatty acids and therfore supplements can help to bridge this deficiency.  

Fish Oil can cause a Vitamin E deficiency and is often added to fish oil supplements.

Fish oil supplements appear to contain almost no mercury.

Dosage:

The recommended dosage is 250 to 2000 mg per week, however your health professional may suggest higher dosages as needed.

Typically, it is recommended that an adult consume fish at least two times per week.  

Fish oil is better absorbed with a meal that contains some fat.  

Cautions:

Fish meat may contain methylmercury and caution is warranted in young children and pregnant/breastfeeding women.

High doses of Omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding and should be taken at the recommended dosage.