How long do you have to take fish oil before if lowers cholesterol?
Fish oil supplements may start lowering cholesterol levels within a few weeks, but noticeable changes typically occur after 2-3 months of regular intake. However, it's worth noting that the exact duration may vary from person to person, and individual responses to fish oil can be influenced by various factors such as baseline cholesterol levels, diet, lifestyle habits, and overall health.
Fish oil is particularly effective in lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. The EPA and DHA, two omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, have been linked to these beneficial effects. EPA is believed to directly reduce LDL cholesterol production in the liver, while DHA can increase the removal of LDL from the bloodstream.
It's generally recommended to take fish oil supplements consistently over several months to see the full impact on cholesterol levels. However, it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before taking fish oil supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are on any medications.