Can Fish Oil Make You Gain Weight?

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Fish oil is an omega-3 fatty acid supplement made from the tissues of oily fish. It is rich in two types of omega-3 fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are known to have many health benefits. Fish oil has been studied for its potential to help people gain weight, but the results have been mixed. In this article, we’ll explore the evidence for and against fish oil for weight gain and discuss the potential risks and benefits.

What Is Fish Oil?

Fish oil is a natural supplement made from the tissues of oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines. It is rich in two types of omega-3 fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids are essential for human health, but they can’t be made by the body and must be obtained from food or supplements.

Fish oil is available in liquid, capsule, and softgel forms. It is also used as an ingredient in some foods, such as salad dressings and mayonnaise. Fish oil is usually taken as a supplement to get the recommended daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids, which is 1,000–2,000mg per day.

Does Fish Oil Make You Gain Weight?

The effects of fish oil on weight gain are mixed. Some studies suggest that fish oil supplements may help people gain weight, while others suggest they do not.

A review of 24 studies found that fish oil supplements were associated with modest increases in body weight in adults. However, the increases were not considered clinically significant.

Another review of 12 studies found that fish oil supplements had no significant effect on body weight in adults.

In addition, a study of 32 obese adults found that taking fish oil supplements for 6 months had no significant effect on body weight or fat mass.

In summary, there is not enough evidence to suggest that fish oil supplements can help people gain weight.

Risks and Benefits of Fish Oil for Weight Gain

Although there is not enough evidence to suggest that fish oil supplements can help people gain weight, there are some potential risks and benefits associated with taking them.

Risks

Fish oil supplements can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, so it’s important to talk to a doctor before taking them. In addition, some people may experience side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.

Benefits

Fish oil supplements can provide some health benefits, even if they don’t help with weight gain. They are a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for human health. Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. In addition, fish oil supplements may help reduce inflammation, which can help reduce symptoms of certain conditions, such as arthritis and asthma.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is fish oil?

Fish oil is a natural supplement made from the tissues of oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines. It is rich in two types of omega-3 fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Does fish oil make you gain weight?

The effects of fish oil on weight gain are mixed. Some studies suggest that fish oil supplements may help people gain weight, while others suggest they do not.

What are the risks of taking fish oil for weight gain?

Fish oil supplements can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, so it’s important to talk to a doctor before taking them. In addition, some people may experience side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.

What are the benefits of taking fish oil for weight gain?

Fish oil supplements can provide some health benefits, even if they don’t help with weight gain. They are a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for human health. Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. In addition, fish oil supplements may help reduce inflammation, which can help reduce symptoms of certain conditions, such as arthritis and asthma.

How much fish oil should I take for weight gain?

It is recommended to take 1,000–2,000mg per day of omega-3 fatty acids from food or supplements. However, it is important to talk to a doctor before taking any supplements, as they can interact with certain medications.

Are there any side effects of taking fish oil for weight gain?

Some people may experience side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. It is important to talk to a doctor before taking any supplements.

Can children take fish oil for weight gain?

It is important to talk to a doctor before giving children any supplements. Children may need to take lower doses of supplements than adults, and some supplements may not be suitable for children.

Are there any alternatives to fish oil for weight gain?

Yes. Other sources of omega-3 fatty acids include flaxseed oil, chia seeds, and walnuts. It is also possible to get omega-3 fatty acids from food sources, such as fatty fish, eggs, and certain types of nuts and seeds.

What are the long-term effects of taking fish oil for weight gain?

The long-term effects of taking fish oil for weight gain are not clear. However, fish oil supplements can provide some health benefits, even if they don’t help with weight gain. They are a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for human health. Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.