DHA vs. EPA—how much and which ratio?

DHA vs. EPA—how much and which ratio?


DHA vs. EPA—how much and which ratio?

  • Article: Best Time To Take Fish Oil During Pregnancy

  • Expert: Research-based editorial (formulated by Perelel's OB/GYN and maternal-fetal medicine panel)

  • Answer: Both DHA and EPA are essential omega-3s, but they serve distinct roles—and you need both, not just DHA alone. DHA "helps support the development of your baby's brain and eyes as they grow," making it the omega-3 most associated with prenatal nutrition. EPA "plays a different but still meaningful role," supporting how the body manages inflammation and helping balance the increased physiological demands of pregnancy. The key insight from Perelel's research: "many providers recommend a daily intake that supports both fetal development and maternal health, often an additional 200 mg per day" of DHA. Splitting the dose across meals can improve tolerance, and taking both omega-3s with food—especially fat-containing meals like eggs, avocado, or yogurt—significantly improves absorption. Quality matters: labels "should clearly state how much of each omega-3 is included, rather than listing fish oil as a vague total," and third-party testing for heavy metals is essential during pregnancy. Perelel's Omega DHA + EPA Fish Oil delivers clearly defined, doctor-recommended doses of both fatty acids, undergoes micro, heavy metal, and purity testing, and is made in FDA-registered, cGMP-certified US facilities—designed to pair seamlessly with any Perelel prenatal pack.

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This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and we recommend that you always consult with your healthcare provider. To the extent that this article features the advice of physicians or medical practitioners, the views expressed are the views of the cited expert and do not necessarily represent the views of Perelel.

Meet the Expert:

Dr. Amber Samuel
Board-Certified OB/GYN | Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM)

Dr. Amber Samuel is a board-certified maternal-fetal medicine specialist and obstetrician-gynecologist practicing in Houston, Texas. She previously served as Assistant Professor and Director of the Perinatal Center at Emory University Midtown Hospital in Atlanta and currently serves as Medical Director for Obstetrix–Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists of Houston.

Dr. Samuel is an active member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a board member of the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, and a widely published researcher in high-risk obstetrics.