In a significant development for the world of nutrition and public health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken two bold steps forward for omega-3 fatty acids — validating their role in lowering blood pressure and supporting maternal and child health.
These actions mark a growing recognition of the importance of EPA and DHA, the two most studied omega-3 fatty acids, in cardiovascular and prenatal wellness. Let’s dive into what’s changed — and why it matters.
FDA Approves Omega-3 Claims for Lowering Blood Pressure
In a major move this June, the FDA approved qualified health claims that permit food and supplement manufacturers to state that EPA and DHA may help reduce blood pressure and lower the risk of hypertension.
This decision stems from a petition submitted by the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s (GOED) almost five years ago. While the approved claims must include language noting that the evidence is “inconsistent and inconclusive,” the permission to use these claims is a big step toward public awareness and regulatory credibility.
What Are the Approved Claims?
Here are examples of the new FDA-qualified statements:
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“Consuming EPA and DHA combined may help lower blood pressure in the general population and reduce the risk of hypertension...”
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“Consuming EPA and DHA combined may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by lowering blood pressure...”
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“Research shows that consuming EPA and DHA combined may be beneficial for moderating blood pressure...”
These statements are allowed on the labels of conventional foods and dietary supplements containing at least 0.8 grams (800 mg) per serving of EPA and DHA combined.
Clinical Research Supports the FDA’s New Stance
The FDA’s approval isn’t just bureaucratic—it reflects growing scientific consensus. For instance, a 2022 study published in Hypertension found that individuals with a higher Omega-3 Index (a measure of EPA and DHA in the blood) had significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Study Highlights:
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Included 2,036 healthy adults aged 25–41
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Individuals with Omega-3 Index levels of 5.8% had systolic blood pressure 4 mmHg lower and diastolic 2 mmHg lower than those at 3.8%
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Even a 2% increase in Omega-3 Index made a measurable difference
These findings align with a 2014 meta-analysis by Miller et al., which confirmed the blood pressure-lowering benefits of EPA and DHA in both healthy and hypertensive individuals.
Why It Matters
According to the American Heart Association, more than 100 million U.S. adults suffer from high blood pressure. The Omega-3 Index is one of the easiest biomarkers to modify — simply by increasing your intake of fatty fish or omega-3 supplements.
FDA Also Updates Fish Guidance for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
In addition to cardiovascular health, the FDA has revised its fish consumption guidance for:
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Pregnant women
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Women who may become pregnant
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Breastfeeding mothers
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Children over 2 years of age
Key Updates (July 2024):
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Emphasis on consuming 2 to 3 servings of low-mercury fish (8–12 oz per week)
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Reinforced importance of EPA and DHA for fetal brain development, preterm birth prevention, and postpartum mental health
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Continued use of a three-tiered fish chart:
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“Best Choices” (e.g., salmon, sardines, anchovies)
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“Good Choices”
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“Choices to Avoid” (e.g., king mackerel, shark, swordfish)
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Despite these guidelines, fish intake among pregnant women remains low. More than 20% report eating no fish, and those who do typically fall short of the recommended 8-ounce minimum.
DHA Intake in Pregnancy: The Reality vs. the Recommendation
Current Recommendation:
At least 200 mg DHA per day
Actual Intake:
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Most pregnant women average only ~60 mg per day
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Less than 10% take a DHA supplement
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An optimal blood level (DHA as 5% of red blood cell fatty acids) is rarely achieved
A 2018 study found that over 70% of women of childbearing age were below the 5% DHA threshold. Some were even below 3.5%, defined as “exceedingly deficient” — a risk for both mother and baby.
Monitoring DHA Levels:
Tests like the Prenatal DHA Test and Mother’s Milk DHA Test allow women to check their DHA status and adjust their diet or supplements accordingly — a smart, proactive move for maternal health.
What You Can Do Today
For Blood Pressure:
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Eat EPA- and DHA-rich foods like salmon, mackerel, sardines
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Take omega-3 supplements with at least 800 mg per serving
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Monitor your Omega-3 Index to maintain an ideal level of 8% or higher
For Pregnancy:
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Aim for 200–600 mg DHA daily, through fish or supplementation
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Choose low-mercury, high-DHA fish
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Use testing tools to verify your DHA status throughout pregnancy
Support Your Health with Ballstad Omega-3
Whether you’re managing blood pressure, planning for pregnancy, or simply aiming to enhance your daily wellness, Ballstad Omega-3 offers a trusted solution:
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Rich in EPA and DHA — meets and exceeds FDA claim requirements
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Purified and safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and daily heart health
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Clinically aligned doses to help achieve target Omega-3 Index levels
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Sustainably sourced and crafted with the highest quality control standards
Make a smart investment in your future — with Ballstad Omega-3.
