People with a specific gene variation and high 'bad' cholesterol tend to have even higher cholesterol levels than others, and their bodies might respond better to omega-3 supplements to help lower it.

For middle-aged and older adults with high 'bad' cholesterol and certain gene versions, taking 2000 mg of omega-3 fish oil every day for three months can lower their bad cholesterol and triglycerides more than a placebo — and their genes might make this effect stronger.

People with a specific gene variation called PPARG may see much better results from taking omega-3 supplements—like lower bad cholesterol and triglycerides—than people without that gene variation.

Taking 2000 mg of omega-3s daily for three months doesn’t change your good cholesterol, total cholesterol, or inflammation markers — so if it helps lower bad cholesterol and triglycerides, it’s not because it’s reducing overall inflammation or affecting all types of fats in your blood.