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Fish Oil – Omega‑3 fatty acid ingredient in dietary supplementsFish oil is a fat derived from the tissues of oily fish and is used in dietary supplements as a source of the omega‑3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, not as a herbal ingredient. It is typically provided in softgel capsules or liquid form to complement omega‑3 intake from the diet.Origin, characteristics, and compositionFish oil is produced by extracting and refining oil from fatty fish species, with further purification steps often used to reduce contaminants such as heavy metals and PCBs. A common non‑concentrated fish oil capsule of 1,000 mg usually contains about 180 mg EPA and 120 mg DHA, although concentrations vary widely between products, and highly concentrated oils can provide much higher levels.Role in dietary supplementsFish oil in supplements primarily acts as an EPA and DHA source, most often in softgel capsules and sometimes as bottled oil. Products range from natural‑strength oils (around 30% EPA+DHA of total oil) to highly concentrated preparations, often with added vitamin E to protect against oxidation. These products are regulated as dietary supplements rather than medicines.Use, labelling, and precautionsLabels typically declare both the total amount of fish oil and the specific amounts of EPA and DHA per serving, sometimes also listing the combined EPA+DHA content. The recommended daily serving on the label should not be exceeded. People with fish allergy, those taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, individuals with bleeding disorders or scheduled for surgery, as well as pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and those with chronic conditions should seek medical advice before using high doses of fish oil. Reported side effects include gastrointestinal upset, fish‑tasting reflux, and, at very high intakes, a possible increased bleeding tendency.Everyday use and place in a healthy lifestyleFish oil supplements are intended to supplement, not replace, omega‑3 obtained from a varied diet that includes fish or other omega‑3 sources. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent diseases on their own, and persistent or serious health problems should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.