Omega-3 and the Heart

EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart. This beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of at least 250 mg EPA and DHA. One serving (5 ml) of Moller’s Omega-3 cod liver oil provides 510 mg DHA and 370 mg EPA.

Omega-3 and Your Heart

Your heart beats approximately 60 to 100 times per minute, every minute of every day. It works together with the lungs to pump oxygenated blood through the body, supplying every cell with the oxygen it needs.

Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, play a role in the normal function of the heart. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has approved this health claim for a daily intake of at least 250 mg EPA+DHA.

EFSA-Approved Claims for Heart and Cardiovascular Health

Claim	Condition
EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart	At least 250 mg EPA+DHA per day
DHA and EPA contribute to the maintenance of normal blood pressure	At least 3 g EPA+DHA per day
DHA and EPA contribute to the maintenance of normal blood triglyceride levels	At least 2 g EPA+DHA per day

These are the only approved health claims relating omega-3 to cardiovascular function. The first claim (normal heart function) is the most relevant for daily supplementation, as it requires 250 mg EPA+DHA per day.

How Much Omega-3 Does Your Heart Need?

For the maintenance of normal heart function, EFSA recommends a minimum daily intake of 250 mg EPA+DHA. One serving of Moller’s Omega-3 cod liver oil (5 ml, or 1 dessert spoon) provides:

510 mg DHA
370 mg EPA
Total DHA+EPA: 880 mg per serving

This means a single daily serving provides more than three times the minimum amount needed for the heart function claim.

Why Cod Liver Oil for Heart Health?

While both cod liver oil and fish oil contain omega-3 fatty acids, cod liver oil offers additional nutrients that are relevant to overall health:

Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system, the maintenance of normal bones, and normal muscle function. One serving of Moller’s contains 10 mcg vitamin D (200% RI).
Vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal vision and to the normal function of the immune system.
Vitamin E (added) contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.

The omega-3 in Moller’s cod liver oil is present in natural triglyceride form, as it occurs naturally in fish. This form is associated with absorption in the body.

Dietary Sources of Omega-3 for the Heart

Fatty fish is the primary dietary source of EPA and DHA. Good choices include mackerel, herring, salmon, sardines, and anchovies. Health authorities recommend eating fatty fish at least once a week.

For those who do not eat enough fish, an omega-3 supplement such as cod liver oil can help reach the recommended daily intake. Read more about omega-3 fatty acids and their role in the body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is omega-3 good for the heart?

EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart. This is an EFSA-approved health claim, obtained with a daily intake of at least 250 mg EPA+DHA.

How much omega-3 should you take for heart health?

EFSA recommends at least 250 mg EPA+DHA per day for normal heart function. One serving of Moller’s Omega-3 provides 880 mg DHA+EPA, well above the minimum threshold.

Does omega-3 help with blood pressure?

DHA and EPA contribute to the maintenance of normal blood pressure. This beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 3 g EPA+DHA, which is significantly higher than what a standard supplement provides.

What is the difference between DHA and EPA?

Both are omega-3 fatty acids found in fish. DHA is an important structural component of brain tissue and the retina. EPA plays a role alongside DHA in cardiovascular function. Both contribute to the normal function of the heart at a combined intake of 250 mg per day.

Can you get enough omega-3 from food alone?

If you eat fatty fish (mackerel, herring, salmon) at least once or twice a week, you may reach the recommended intake. Many people do not eat enough fish, in which case an omega-3 supplement can help bridge the gap.

Explore who benefits from cod liver oil, or discover how omega-3 supports child development.