Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) (Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA + DHA))
Essential polyunsaturated fatty acids that form the backbone of anti-inflammatory signaling. EPA and DHA reduce triglycerides, stabilize cardiac rhythm, reduce platelet aggregation, and resolve chronic inflammation through specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs).
How it works
EPA/DHA incorporate into cell membranes, displacing arachidonic acid and reducing pro-inflammatory eicosanoid production. Generate resolvins and protectins for active inflammation resolution. Activate PPARγ and inhibit NF-κB.
Key facts
- Molecular weight: EPA: 302.45 Da, DHA: 328.49 Da
- Half-life: ~48-72 hours (membrane incorporation)
- Bioavailability: Triglyceride form: ~70%; ethyl ester: ~30-40%; phospholipid (krill): ~85%
- Storage: Refrigerate after opening. Protect from light and oxidation.
Dosing overview
- Typical dose: 2-4g combined EPA+DHA
- Frequency: Daily with meals
- Duration: Ongoing
- Route: Oral (softgel, liquid)
Reported benefits
- Triglyceride reduction (25-45%)
- Anti-inflammatory (SPM production)
- Cardiac rhythm stabilization
- Brain and cognitive support
- Joint inflammation reduction
- Membrane fluidity optimization
Possible side effects
- Fishy aftertaste/burping
- Mild GI discomfort
- Increased bleeding time
- Rare: LDL elevation (DHA)
Research
- REDUCE-IT: Icosapent ethyl and CV events (2019): High-dose EPA (4g/day) reduced cardiovascular events by 25% in statin-treated patients with elevated triglycerides.
- Omega-3 and inflammation resolution (2021): 3g/day EPA+DHA increased specialized pro-resolving mediators (resolvins) by 3-fold, accelerating inflammation resolution.
Community reviews of Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)
- recovery_rachel rated it 5/5 - Noticed clear benefits within weeks: Added Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) to my protocol about 2 months ago and it has earned its place. The benefits became noticeable around week 2-3 and have been consistent since. What I appreciate about this compound is the predictability. It does what the research suggests it should do, at roughly the timeline you would expect. No surprises, no dramatic swings, just steady improvement. No notable side effects to report at my dose. Sourcing is always the challenge with research compounds, insist on third-party testing. Storage and reconstitution per standard protocols. Plan to continue.
- growth_factor_gabe rated it 5/5 - Genuinely effective after 2 months: Been using Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) for about 2 months and the results are clear. Not overnight dramatic, but a steady, consistent improvement that became undeniable by the end of the first month. The mechanism makes sense based on what I have read in the literature, and my subjective experience matches the expected timeline. Benefits built gradually and plateaued at a good level. Side effects were minimal to none at the dose I used. Followed proper protocols for sourcing, storage, and administration. Would recommend to others who have done their research and have realistic expectations.
- injection_journal rated it 5/5 - Solid compound with real results: Been using Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) for about 6 months and the results are clear. Not overnight dramatic, but a steady, consistent improvement that became undeniable by the end of the first month. The mechanism makes sense based on what I have read in the literature, and my subjective experience matches the expected timeline. Benefits built gradually and plateaued at a good level. Side effects were minimal to none at the dose I used. Followed proper protocols for sourcing, storage, and administration. Would recommend to others who have done their research and have realistic expectations.
- peak_levels_paula rated it 4/5 - Worth adding to the protocol: Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) has been a worthwhile addition. I am data-driven and tracked relevant markers before, during, and after. The improvement is measurable and correlates with the intervention timeline. What sets this apart from some compounds I have tried is the consistency. Benefits did not fluctuate wildly or disappear. They built up and maintained. That gives me confidence in the mechanism. Tolerance has been excellent. Nothing in my bloodwork or subjective experience raised any flags. This is the kind of compound that does its job quietly without causing problems. Exactly what you want.
- frugalnoor rated it 5/5 - Easy on my routine, kinder to my joints: I tried omega-3 for about 4 weeks because my day is a mix of physical therapy work, long clinic hours, and enough pickleball to keep me humble. I wanted something that fit real life, not another fussy little project on the counter. For me, it was easy to keep taking with breakfast, and I noticed my joints felt less grumpy by the end of the day. My skin also seemed a bit calmer, which was a nice bonus in dry weather down here. Could be coincidence, but I felt better overall and more steady at work. I kept at it, which says a lot. 🧪
- coastal_labrat rated it 5/5 - Fish oil finally beat my creaky winter brain: I ran omega-3 for about 6 months because my East Coast winter joints and my brain both get kinda rude, tbh. I used to prefer curcumin for the same general goal, but omega-3 felt steadier for me. Less stiffness after long shifts, and my focus felt smoother in the morning, especially on chart-heavy days. Could be my body just likes it better, but this one stuck. I’m keeping it in my routine.
Compare Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.