Heart-Healthy Eating: Fish and Fish Oil

Overview

Fish is a lean protein source that contains omega-3 fatty acids. This type of fat can be part of a heart-healthy diet.

Fish oil supplements are another way to get omega-3 fatty acids. Research has not proved that fish oil is helpful for everyone. That's why doctors do not agree about whether these supplements can help protect your heart.^{footnote 1}

If you have severely high triglycerides, your doctor may recommend you take fish oil to try to prevent a problem with your pancreas called pancreatitis.