How Long Does it Take for Omega-3 to Work?

Key Takeaways

1. Omega-3s (DHA and EPA) are crucial for cognition, heart health, relieving depression, reducing inflammation, and promoting learning and memory.
2. Many people are deficient in Omega-3s due to imbalanced diets rich in omega-6 fatty acids.
3. To ensure effective absorption, Omega-3 supplements should be taken with a fatty meal.
4. Signs of Omega-3 deficiency include brittle nails, dry skin, fatigue, poor concentration, joint pain, and emotional issues like depression or anxiety.
5. The Omega-3 Index test can assess Omega-3 levels, and a typical effective nootropic dosage at 1000 mg DHA per day can help raise deficient levels.

Omega-3s are critical for optimal cognition and overall good health. The Omega-3s DHA and EPA are essential for heart health, relieving depression, reducing inflammation, learning and memory, and repairing and growing new brain cells.

But if you added fish oil or an Omega-3 supplement like the new Performance Lab^® Omega-3 to your daily nootropic stack, how long does it take for Omega-3 to work? How soon can you experience these health benefits?

In this post you’ll learn what Omega-3s are, what happens when you start taking an Omega-3 supplement, what it feels like, and get a clear idea about how long it takes for an Omega-3 supplement to work.

What are Omega-3s?

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid. It’s “essential” because omega-3 is critical for optimal brain and overall health.

Omega-3s come in three types: α-Linolenic acid (ALA), Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Alpha-Linolenic Acid fatty acids come from plants. And EPA and DHA are found primarily in oily fish like salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies, menhaden, and sardines. Which get their Omega-3s in the wild from algae.

Your body cannot produce this type of fat. Which means that to maintain healthy levels of omega-3s, you need to get it from food.

But instead of getting adequate amounts of omega-3s, most people continue to be deficient.

Here’s why …

Why you may be Omega-3 deficient

You could be low in Omega-3s because you’re not eating enough seafood high in EPA and DHA. Or the Omega-3 supplement you are using is not being absorbed by your digestive system.

Let’s examine these two reasons in a little more detail for clarity.

The biggest problem is our Western diet is loaded with omega-6 fatty acids. From processed foods, and cooking oils like palm, canola, soybean, sunflower and safflower oil.

Our ancestors evolved on a diet with a ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 essential fatty acids with a ratio of 1:1.

Our modern diet on the other hand maintains an unhealthy balance of omega-6 to omega-3 with a ratio of 16:1.

This unhealthy fatty acid ratio may account for many of the diseases we see in our society. Including heart disease, cancer, osteoporosis, and inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.[i]

Do your best to avoid processed foods and unhealthy cooking oils loaded with omega-6 fatty acids.

There is no need to eliminate them altogether. But instead, increase your Omega-3 fatty acid intake by eating seafoods high in DHA and EPA. Or use an Omega-3 supplement such as the Performance Lab^® Omega-3 every day.

A diet higher in omega-3s provides an anti-inflammatory effect by suppressing interleukin 1beta (IL-1beta), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TN-F-alpha) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Something omega-6 fatty acids cannot do.

Why your Omega-3 isn’t working

Another reason you could be Omega-3 deficient is you’re not eating enough healthy fat! Even if you are using a daily supplement.

Omega-3 fatty acids are only absorbed and used by your system if taken with a fatty meal.

You need enough fat to release bile salts that emulsify, and pancreatic enzymes that digest omega-3-containing lipids in your intestine.[ii]

If you’ve been following the advice offered by mainstream medicine to eat a low-fat diet, you should know it’s bad advice.

Because without these healthy fats in your diet, you’re not getting the benefit of any of the fat-soluble supplements you are currently using.

Those fat-soluble supplements, including Omega-3s, never make it through your digestive system. For the reasons explained above.

And you excrete your fish oil, Omega-3, or DHA supplement unused. Never experiencing its benefit.[iii]

If this is you I encourage you to revisit this faulty advice. And add some healthy fats back to your diet.

Because you’ll be amazed at how good you feel. Once your body and brain again have access to healthy fats, you start getting all the benefits offered by the fat-soluble vitamins, minerals, and Omega-3s.

The fat-soluble nutrients that require fat for digestion and transport so your body and brain can use them.

Signs that you are Omega-3 deficient

If you have brittle nails, lifeless looking hair, dry skin, fatigue, poor concentration, joint pain, or suffer from insomnia it could be a sign of omega-3 deficiency.

Other signs of Omega-3 deficiency include problems with attention, learning and memory. And depression, anxiety, aggressive behavior, anger, or suicidal thoughts have all been linked to Omega-3 deficiency.

Now, I’m NOT saying that as soon as you start following an Omega-3 supplementation regimen that you’ll suddenly be cured all your ills. There is no one-pill solution.

But using a high-quality Omega-3 or DHA supplement every day at recommended dosages could start you on the path to feeling better.

How to test your Omega-3 levels

Ask your doctor or go to a local lab and request an Omega-3 Index test to better understand your status.

The Omega-3 Index is a blood test that measures the percentage of Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) in red blood cell membranes.

For example, if you have 64 fatty acids in a cell membrane and 3 are DHA and EPA, then you have an Omega-3 Index of 4.6%.

The Omega-3 Index Reference Range is 2.90 – 12.90%.

Omega-3 Index – 8% or higher – low risk zone

Omega-3 Index – 6% or less – average risk zone

Omega-3 Index – 4% or less – high risk zone[iv]

How to raise your Omega-3 levels

If you are Omega-3 deficient the only way to raise your Index score is by supplementing with DHA and EPA.

ALA found in plants like flaxseed or chia have NO IMPACT on your Omega-3 Index. And provide extraordinarily little health benefit. You may have seen claims that flaxseed oil is a miracle drug for skin hydration, and replacing the oils in your skin may make it appear healthier. But do nothing for optimal brain health.

ALA can be converted into EPA and then to DHA. But the conversion is limited to your liver and is extremely limited.[v]

Consuming DHA and EPA directly from foods rich in Omega-3s and/or nootropic supplements is the only practical way to increase these fatty acids in your body.[vi]

Wild caught salmon and farmed salmon supply more DHA and EPA per 100 g serving that other forms of seafood. Ranging from 717 – 1533 mg/100 g according to one study.[vii]

The most consistent method of raising your Omega-3 Index levels is by using an Omega-3 supplement distilled from fish oil or algae.

Omega-3 supplements are available in several different forms including natural triglycerides, free fatty acids, ethyl esters, re-esterified triglycerides, and phospholipids.

Studies show one of the best and quickest ways to raise your DHA and EPA levels are by using re-esterified triglycerides (124%) compared to natural fish oil. With a supplement like Performance Lab^® Omega-3.

Bioavailability of ethyl esters was the worst (73%). Free fatty acids and natural triglycerides were about the same as using natural fish oil (91%).[viii]

Another set of studies show Krill oil as the phospholipid form of DHA & EPA, where peak levels were measured in blood at the 24-hour mark.

Krill oil also showed better bioavailability than re-esterified triglycerides and ethyl esters falling far behind.[ix]

How much Omega-3 should I take daily?

The recommended daily dosage of Omega-3s depend on your age, sex, and health status.

Health authorities around the world have released dosage guidelines for Omega-3s. But they vary from authority to authority.

The majority of my research has been in brain health and optimization. And I have concluded, based on peer-reviewed clinical studies, that the most effective nootropic dosage is 1000 mg DHA per day.

Your system does require EPA along with DHA. And you’ll find most DHA supplements also contain effective, but smaller doses of EPA as well.

Taking too much fish oil may weaken the immune system over time. While you would need to take a massive amount of fresh fish oil for this to be a problem, how much fish oil to take differs from person to person.

The safest way to decide how much Omega-3 is right for you is to get tested. And then base your dosage on your Omega-3 Index score.

If you need to raise your levels, take a higher dose of DHA and EPA until you’re in the “no risk zone”.

Final note on dosage is to be aware that Omega-3 dosage on the front of a supplement label can be widely different than how much DHA and EPA is in each gelcap. Make sure you check the ‘Supplement Facts’ label before you buy the supplement.

And fresh is best. Because fish oil quickly oxidizes and oxidative stress from using a ‘spoiled’ fish oil supplement is bad for body and brain.[x]

If it smells ‘fishy’ put it back on the shelf. Or throw it out. When it comes to Omega-3 and fish oil supplements the old saying ‘you get what you pay for’ holds true.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for omega 3 to work for anxiety?

The effects of omega-3 on anxiety can vary significantly depending on several factors such as individual biochemistry, dosage, and the severity and cause of the anxiety. On average, however, it might take several weeks to a few months to notice improvements in anxiety symptoms after starting an omega-3 supplementation regimen.

What are the symptoms of severe omega-3 deficiency?

Severe omega-3 deficiency may present a variety of symptoms. These include dry skin, poor memory or cognitive function, mood swings or depression, poor circulation, and increased susceptibility to illness due to immune dysfunction. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect you may be experiencing an omega-3 deficiency.

Is it better to take omega-3 in the morning or at night?

There isn’t a universally agreed-upon best time to take omega-3 supplements, as it can depend on individual factors such as digestive health and personal routines. However, some people find it beneficial to take them in the morning with food to help with absorption, while others prefer taking them at night because certain omega-3 supplements can cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort that could be less noticeable during sleep.

How long do omega-3 fish oil capsules last?

The shelf life of omega-3 fish oil capsules can depend on factors such as the specific brand, the manufacturing process, and how the capsules are stored. Generally, a sealed bottle of omega-3 fish oil capsules can last for up to two years when stored in a cool, dark place. It’s important to always check the expiration date on the bottle and to discard any supplements that have expired or have a rancid smell.

What is the best vegan omega-3 supplement?

The best vegan omega-3 supplement can vary based on individual needs and preferences. However, algae-based supplements are a popular choice as they contain both EPA and DHA, two important types of omega-3 fatty acids. Performance Lab Omega-3 is known for their high-quality vegan omega-3 supplements. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider if you are uncertain about starting any new supplement regimen.

Are fish oil supplements a good option to get my Omega-3s?

Did you know fish do not produce Omega-3s? Instead, fish and other sea life get Omega-s from eating phytoplankton that consumed microalgae. And they then accumulate the omega-3s in their tissues. I have found that most Omega-3 dietary supplements do not contain enough (docosahexaenoic acid) DHA to be used for their nootropic value. And I have not seen a fish oil supplement yet that contains adequate amounts of DHA. Instead, you may want to consider getting your Omega-3s daily from a supplement sourced directly from marine algae. My favorite is Performance Lab^® Omega-3 which is made from life’s™ OMEGA 60.

The bottom-line for Omega-3s

Omega-3s make it into your bloodstream within 3 – 4 hours after taking the supplement. And it takes about 24 hours for Omega-3 levels of DHA and EPA to saturate red blood cell membranes after you take the supplement.

But it can take days or even weeks of daily supplementation with Omega-3 to raise your Omega-3 Index score.

Most health professionals suggest not to exceed 4,000 mg Omega-3s per day. But chances are you don’t need that much Omega-3.

Unless you’re treating a specific health issue, it’s safe to use a supplement like the new Performance Lab^® Omega-3  which contains 540 mg DHA with 270 mg EPA per day. For optimal brain health. And whole-body optimization with Omega-3 fatty acids.