CONSUMER REPORT QUICK TAKE
Certain omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil can help prevent cardiovascular disease. The only way to get substantial amounts of those omega-3s is from fish or fish-oil supplements.
Most people with normal heart risk should eat at least two small servings of fish a week. Young children and pregnant women should avoid or limit their intake of species that may be contaminated with pollutants; others should vary their choices and sharply limit intake of the worst offenders. If you don't like fish, you could consume the equivalent amount of omega-3s from fish-oil pills: about 2 grams (two daily doses) a week.
People with heart disease should consume about 1 gram a day of the omega-3s, from fish or fish-oil supplements, provided their doctor gives the OK.
The more risk factors you have for heart disease, the more you should consider following the above advice for heart patients.
Our tests of 16 leading pill brands found that all contained roughly as much omega-3s as their labels claimed, and none were contaminated or spoiled. (See Ratings). So choose them based mainly on price.
