Have you ever stumbled upon a secret you can’t help but share? That’s exactly how it feels to unlock the remarkable health benefits of Ashwagandha and Fish Oil.
These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill supplements; they’re nature’s powerhouse duo, promising to revolutionize your health in ways you never imagined.
Ashwagandha, a champion stress-buster from the Ayurvedic tradition, meets Fish Oil, the heart’s loyal guardian abundant in Omega-3 fatty acids. Just imagine what magic they can cast on your overall well-being.
Join us on a journey to discover these supplements’ benefits and side effects, which could be the key to optimal health.
Ashwagandha And Fish Oil Together: 5 Reasons Why You Should Take Them
According to some sources, you can take ashwagandha and fish oil together, but you must maintain a balanced diet.
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that may help reduce stress, anxiety, and inflammation.
On the other hand, fish oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain health. It also has anti-oxidants that can help lower your risk of heart disease and cancer.
So, taking them together will breed good health benefits.
However, the research on the optimal dosage or timing of ashwagandha and fish oil intake is limited. So you should follow the instructions on the labels or your doctor’s advice.
Here are 5 research-based potential benefits of Ashwagandha and fish oil you may acquire.
Reason 1: Reduces Inflammation
Both ashwagandha and fish oil have anti-inflammatory properties and can protect you against several diseases like – heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s.
A study showed that Ashwagandha may reduce C-reactive protein (CRP) levels—a marker of inflammation—in people with arthritis. Another study suggests that ashwagandha may lower the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines—molecules that promote inflammation—in people with stress.
On the other hand, fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3s are essential for maintaining the structure and function of brain cells and improving cognitive function and memory.
Besides, several studies have found that fish oil can reduce inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
Reason 2: Improves Brain Function
Ashwagandha has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine as an adaptogenic herb. Studies show it can improve cognitive performance, including reaction time, discrimination, and vigilance.
On the other hand, fish oil’s omega-3s are crucial for brain cell structure and function, enhancing cognitive function and memory. DHA and EPA, two omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, may improve cognitive function in a combined supplement at prescription levels in older adults with coronary artery disease.
Ashwagandha and fish oil can improve brain function by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, protecting the brain, and enhancing cognitive function.
Reason 3: Boosts Immune System
Ashwagandha has shown immune-boosting properties in both animal and human studies. A study shows that ashwagandha may increase the production of infection-fighting white blood cells in mice. In another study, Ashwagandha may boost natural killer cell function to fight cancer.
Alternatively, fish oil also has immune-boosting properties. Numerous studies have found that fish oil can boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells. It also can increase the activity of natural killer cells in people with cancer.
Thus, boosting the immune system with ashwagandha and fish oil can protect against infections and other diseases.
Reason 4: Reduces Stress and Anxiety
According to studies, ashwagandha reduces cortisol levels—a hormone released in response to stress—in people with chronic stress. Another study suggests that ashwagandha may reduce anxiety levels in people with anxiety disorders.
As for fish oil, it has stress-reducing properties. Several studies have found that fish oil can reduce anxiety levels in people with anxiety disorders and may reduce cortisol levels in people with chronic stress.
Hence, the combined effect of ashwagandha and fish oil is indeed great for managing stress and anxiety.
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Reason 5: Promotes Heart Health
Both ashwagandha and fish oil may promote heart health. Ashwagandha may reduce cholesterol levels and triglycerides—two risk factors for heart disease.
On the other hand, fish oil can potentially reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering triglycerides, blood pressure, and inflammation.
If heart health is your concern, taking Ashwagandha and fish oil may help immensely.
The Recommended Dosage Of Ashwagandha And Fish Oil
The recommended dosage for ashwagandha and fish oil can vary depending on your needs and health condition. Most research suggests that taking 250–600 milligrams (mg) daily for at least 1 month may be beneficial.
As for fish oil, there is no recommended daily dosage for fish oil. However, consuming it may help you reach the daily recommended dosage of omega-3 fatty acids.
On average, a 1,000 mg dose of fish oil contains approximately 300 mg of both EPA and DHA combined. Most healthcare providers recommend 1 to 3 grams (1000-3000mg) of omega-3s daily.
A reminder: always check the label for EPA and DHA in fish oil supplements while buying them.
Can You Take Ashwagandha And Fish Oil At The Same Time?
The answer is not straightforward, as there is not enough scientific evidence to determine the safety and efficacy of this combination.
Some studies suggest that ashwagandha and fish oil may synergistically affect mood, cognition, and inflammation.
In contrast, others believe they may interact negatively and cause side effects such as insomnia, visual impairment, nausea, diarrhea, or bleeding.
And many often recommend taking ashwagandha and fish oil with some gap between them and a balanced diet.
But as everyone responds differently to supplements, you should consult your doctor before taking ashwagandha and fish oil together. It’s a must if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications.
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Potential Side Effects and Interactions Of Ashwagandha and Fish Oil
Ashwagandha and fish oil are usually safe and suit most people. However, knowing their potential side effects and interactions is always smart.
Ashwagandha
Some individuals might experience side effects such as-
- upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- increased thyroid hormone levels
- May interfere with the effectiveness of sedative and anti-anxiety medications
Fish Oil
It can cause side effects, including-
- Belching
- bad breath
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- loose stools
- Rash
- increased risk of bleeding due to high doses
- It may interact with blood thinners, blood pressure medications, and contraceptive drugs.
Which Is Better: Ashwagandha Or Fish Oil
Now, if you want to take only one supplement: ashwagandha or fish oil, which one to pick? Which will match your goal the most?
It mostly depends on your health condition, purpose, and preference. However, here’s a comparison table to confidently determine the suitable support.
| Attribute | Ashwagandha | Fish Oil |
| Primary Components | Withanolides (Anolides and sitoindosides) | Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) |
| Health Benefits | Reduces stress, anxiety, and depression by lowering cortisol levels Improves brain function and memory Lowers blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress | Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress Improves heart health by lowering triglycerides and blood pressure Supports brain and eye health Reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety |
| Learned Side Effects | Mild digestive upset possible impact on thyroid hormone levels Excess dose my lower blood pressure or blood sugar. | Mild digestive upset fishy breath, burping, or nausea excess bleeding with high doses Contamination risk (mercury or PCBs) |
| Interactions | May interact with sedatives and anti-anxiety medications | Can interact with blood thinners, blood pressure medications |
| Regular Dose (Adults) | Around 300-500mg per day | around 1000-3000mg of Omega-3s per day |
| Use in Pregnancy | Not well-studied, use with caution | Advisable to obtain from dietary sources |
Can I Take Ashwagandha And Multivitamin Together?
It’s safe to take ashwagandha and multivitamins together. No negative effects have been found. In fact, combining ashwagandha with a multivitamin may enhance the effectiveness of the vitamins.
However, to avoid negative interactions, some suggest taking ashwagandha and multivitamin supplements at different times of the day. They recommend at least a two-hour gap between their intake.
Here are some of the potential benefits of taking ashwagandha and multivitamins together:
- Improved energy levels
- Elevated mood
- Reduced stress
- Increased immunity
- Improved sleep
- Better cognitive function.
Learn the effect of taking Ashwagandha and magnesium.
Conclusion
Ashwagandha and fish oil can be a great addition to your health regime. With Ashwagandha’s stress-busting abilities, cognitive enhancements, and Fish Oil’s heart-friendly and anti-inflammatory properties, this duo possesses a wide spectrum of health benefits.
For more on supplementation, visit our blogs.
I am a health and wellness enthusiast working in a Pittsburgh-based wellness clinic. My primary role as a consultant is to tailor a balanced lifestyle for my patients, where positive steps and potent supplements play a synergistic role.