Fish Oil Supplements
Why Fish Oil?
If you’re here you may already be taking fish oil supplements or you may be new to fish oil all together so feel free to skip ahead if you’re an experienced fish oil aficionado. If you’re new to fish oil let’s start from the beginning. (Please note this is an excerpt from our full article The Who, What, When, Where & Why of Omega-3 Fish Oil.
Fish oil is a major source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are considered “essential” because your body doesn’t produce them on its own. In other words, you need to consume these particular fatty acids from food and/or nutritional supplements. The major providers of Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the human diet are fish. Unfortunately, eating large amounts of fish is a growing health concern due to noxious heavy metals and environmental toxins that tend to accumulate in marine ecosystems. So many people, myself included take a fish oil supplement regularly.
Omega 3’s can influence more than just heart health. They have significant support for Cardiovascular, Immune System Support, Musculoskeletal Support, Skin Health & Vitality and Cognitive health. Please read the full article linked above for more on each of these important areas.
How Much Do We Need?
This is something that’s specific to the individual and should be discussed with your nutritionist or doctor who knows you best and can take into account anything specific to you and your medical history. As a general rule The World Health Organization and Consumer Lab both recommend 500 mg combined EPA and DHA for a minimum daily dose. Research suggests that a combined intake of EPA and DHA between 1000-3000 mg per day (in a 3:2 ratio of EPA:DHA) is more effective to support health and longevity.10Please consult your healthcare practitioner to see what’s right for you.
Fish Oil Suggestions
You may just be looking for suggestions on some of the best fish oils out there so if that's you here they are. Based on all of the criteria mentioned in the The Who, What, When, Where & Why of Omega-3 Fish Oil article and popularity with our customers here are the top fish oil supplements. It might be easy to be overwhelmed by the choices. It’s important to talk to your doctor or nutritionist about what would be right for your personal situation and or medical history. With most adults we see many people order Omega Pure 720’s, ProOmega (either regular or ProOmega 2000 depending on dosing needs), OmegaGenics 500’s or 720’s. Remember the 500 Enteric Coated can be great for those wanting to minimize any fishy burps or other aftertaste.
For those wanting a non-fish source or Omega’s Algae based oils are very popular (Nordic Naturals Algae Omega or OmegaGenics 300 Algae.)