As per American Heart Association, taking 4 grams daily omega-3 fatty acid reduces triglycerides by 20-30%. There're a few key points released.
1. Not supplement, but prescription omega-3. Currently the prescription is used to treating very high triglycerides level (above 500 mg/dL). But the latest research supports physicians to prescribe omega-3 for any abnormal level.
2. EPA or DHA - the study didn't compare EPA or DHA. One prescription contains both EPA and DHA, another one contains only DHA. But the guideline didn't specify which one is better. As a result, both are considered equally.
3. "Dietary supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids are not regulated by the FDA. They should not be used in place of prescription medication for the long-term management of high triglycerides" - as one of the associate professor said.
4. Eating fish at least twice each week helps - salmon, mackerel, herring and albacore tuna.
5. Healthy lifestyle choices, such as getting regular physical activity, losing weight, avoiding sugar and refined carbohydrates, limiting alcohol as well as choosing healthier fats from plants in place of saturated fats can help reduce triglycerides.