The present invention provides methods of limiting cell death resulting from hypoxic-ischemia comprising, administering an omega-3 lipid-based emulsion after a hypoxic-ischemia insult. The omega-3 lipid-based emulsion preferably comprises at least 20% omega-3 oil, by weight, and wherein the omega-3 oil comprises at least 20% omega-3 triglycerides and/or diglycerides, and wherein fatty acids of the omega-3 trigylceride and/or diglycerides comprise at least 40% EPA and/or DHA. The present invention also provides novel fish-oil compositions for administration after an ischemic insult to limit cell death in the organ that underwent an ischemic event.