Overview
- The peer-reviewed analysis in Nutrition Research Reviews synthesized 42 technical and scientific guidance documents across countries and life stages.
- Researchers reported that roughly 76% of the global population fails to meet recommended intakes of the long-chain omega-3 fats EPA and DHA.
- For healthy adults, the most frequent benchmark is about 250 mg per day of combined EPA and DHA, with pregnancy guidance typically adding 100–200 mg of DHA.
- Clinicians warn that low omega-3 status is associated with higher risks of heart attacks, sudden cardiac death, cognitive decline, inflammation and vision problems.
- Suggested responses include eating oily fish more often or using fish-oil or algae-based supplements, with omega-3 index testing guiding dosing and typical adult upper limits of about 2–5 g per day.