Fish Oil for Men: What’s Real, What’s Hype, and Where It Helps Most

Abstract Summary

Objective

To synthesize male-specific outcomes of fish oil with emphasis on cardiometabolic risk and reproductive health.

Context

Men have higher baseline cardiovascular risk and may present with dyslipidemia responsive to omega-3s; interest in reproductive effects is growing due to reports of declining semen quality.

Methods Used

Approach

Prioritized clinical endpoints and robust designs; treated semen data cautiously when observational.

Data Collection

Sourced from major clinical trials, fertility studies, and authoritative guidelines on fish oil.

Researchers’ Summary of Findings

Impact on Health

For men with high triglycerides, fish oil—particularly prescription EPA—has clear utility. For fertility, omega-3s may play a supportive role but should not replace full clinical evaluation.

Health Implications

Men considering high-dose fish oil should be evaluated for arrhythmia risk and drug interactions.

Sustainability

Best obtained from fatty fish such as salmon or sardines; supplements should be certified and sustainably sourced.

DOI

10.1056/NEJMoa1812792; 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.19462; 10.1093/ehjcvp/pvab008