Benefits for children and adults

• Fish oil is thought to have many health benefits. The New York Times reported that doctors are prescribing fish oil to treat mood disorders, learning and developmental problems, and ADHD in children. It also helps lift depression in adults. Doctors caution that it is not a cure all, but a healthy nutritional supplement.
  
  

Eat fish instead

• Should you choose to get your omega-3s directly from fish, or from taking fish oil supplements? The choice is really up to you, but the EPA recommends that pregnant women and young children avoid eating fish that could contain harmful amounts of mercury. The EPA suggests that you not eat shark, swordfish, king mackerel or tile fish. Safe fish to eat with high omega-3s are shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, trout and sardines.
  
  

Take the Pills

• If you just can't stomach eating fish two to three times a week, fish oil supplements might be the best way to go. If you're a vegetarian, consider taking plant based oil supplement instead.
  You can also take fish oil as a liquid, or find it as an ingredient in energy bars.
  
  

Fish Oil for your Heart

• Fish oil is a recommened treatment for people with heart disease. Studies show that it can help prevent blood clots and lower high blood pressure. According to the American Heart Association, people with high triglycerides should take fish oil capsules containing 2 to 4 grams of DHA and EPA each day. Heart patients with other issues should take a lesser dose of 1 gram of DHA.
  
  

Drawbacks

• There are some drawbacks to taking fish oil supplements. Many people report having a fishy after taste in their mouth from the pills, an upset stomach, nausea and loose stools. High doses of fish oil can harm your immune system and even cause bleeding.