Fish Oils and Heart Health: The Top 10 Fish Oil Supplements
You become increasingly concerned about various areas of your health as you get older. High cholesterol and blood pressure, often known as hypertension, can harm your heart, make it more difficult to maintain a healthy weight, and cause your joints to become sore and achy. Consider fish oils as a part of your dietary supplement if you’re searching for a little more help.
Fish oils have an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA. These fatty acids aid in mood regulation, joint inflammation reduction, and heart health support. When taken regularly, Fish oils can help you achieve your daily omega 3 fatty acid requirements and make you feel healthier.
So you don’t have to; we’ve done the legwork for you and found the best fish oil supplement solutions. You’ll learn how including omega 3 dietary supplements may improve your health in this article and what to look for when shopping.
Health Benefits Of Fish Oils
Dietary fats are necessary for a complete diet and play an important role in overall health and well-being. One of two primary polyunsaturated fatty acids is Omega 3 fatty acids (PUFAs). They’re found commonly in fatty fish like salmon, trout, and mackerel and are also present in flaxseed, among other things.
Omega-3 fatty acids come in several forms, but ALA, EPA, and DHA are the most important. The precursor of long-chain omega 3s like EPA and DHA is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). ALA improves cardiovascular health as well as neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DHA) are the two omega 3s that have been the focus of scientific study. These fatty acids are only found in cell membranes and are crucial for the brain, moods, and behavior. DHA is especially crucial for pre-and postnatal brain development, while EPA is important for mood and behavior regulation.
To ensure appropriate omega 3s intake, the American Heart Association (AHA) advises two servings of fish per week for healthy individuals. Especially fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and canned tuna.
However, you can take omega 3 fish oils instead if you do not like fish. Concentrated fish oil supplements are simple and can help you achieve your daily essential fatty acids requirement.
Various Forms Of Fish Oil Supplements
Fish oil supplements might provide you peace of mind knowing your body is getting the omega 3s it needs. The supplements are available in various formats, but they are usually grouped into two categories.
On the other hand, many companies may deodorize them to remove the fish odor and may add essential oils, like lemon oil, to conceal the fish aftertaste.
The following are the most common types of fish oils:
Soft Gel Capsules: Fish oils are commonly taken in the form of soft gel capsules. These are the easier forms of fish Oils to swallow.
Liquid: Fish oils are also available in a liquid form, packaged in a bottle. The liquid is a preferred delivery mechanism when giving higher doses of fish oils.
Prescription: For people with excessive triglycerides, prescription fish oil supplements are being approved to supplement a low-fat diet to lower triglyceride levels and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The Best Fish Oil Supplements: What To Look For
It’s critical to find high-quality fish oils. Make sure they’re made from high-quality fish and made by a supplement company that meets or even exceeds the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices criteria.
You should buy from a trustworthy brand and check for third-party certification, just as you would with any vitamin. Third-party certifications are crucial because they validate that the fish oil products contain what it says on the label and are safe to eat.
When it comes to fish oils, the quantities of EPA and DHA can vary greatly; you should look at the EPA and DHA levels as you want to choose a brand with higher levels.
Always look for a verified brand that is also environmentally friendly.
Another issue with fish oils is the risk of heavy metal contamination. It’s good to ask if the firm you’re buying it from tests their fish oil for heavy metals with an independent lab and can guarantee that it’s free of any substantial quantities of metals.
Fish Oil Side Effects
The Omega 3 supplements can thin the blood. Extended bleeding time if someone receives a cut is one key risk of omega 3 supplements. Consequently, if you are using blood thinners, you should see your doctor before taking these supplements.
To avoid severe bleeding, you should avoid fish oils at least a week before surgery.
Some products leave a fishy aftertaste in the mouth. If you experience this side effect, freeze the supplement before taking it. This treatment will help to alleviate the symptom. Nausea, diarrhea, and heartburn are some of the other side effects, but they are usually minor.
If any of these adverse effects occur, speak with your doctor to determine if there are any other options available to you.
Finally, if you’re allergic or sensitive to fish, you shouldn’t partake in fish oil supplementation.
Dosage For Fish Oil Supplements
The recommended fish oil supplement dosage for fish oil supplementation varies depending on why you’re taking it.
First and foremost, obtain your omega 3s from food: Two meals of fatty fish per week are ideal for healthy adults without a history of heart disease. A healthy adult should start with 400 to 500 mg of mixed EPA and DHA per day as supplements.
People with coronary heart disease should take 1,000 mg of mixed EPA and DHA per day, and people with excessive triglyceride levels should take 2 to 4 grams per day.
However, you’ll have to consult a professional health practitioner first. Most people benefit from prescription-grade omega-3 supplements when taking such high doses.
Higher doses are commonly utilized to control triglycerides, support the fatty liver, and decrease inflammation. Acute traumatic brain injury patients have received doses as high as 8 to 12 grams with good results.
Intake of omega 3s over 3 grams per day, on the other hand, is potentially detrimental for most people. Before adding any supplement to your regimen, see your doctor and a licensed dietitian nutritionist to determine the proper dosage for you and your needs.
Best Fish Oil Supplements
Best Overall Fish Oil Supplements
Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega
- Price: $63.49
- Recommended Dosage: 2 softgels
- DHA in a single serving: 450 mg
- EPA in a single serving: 650 mg
- Servings per container: 45
PROS
- It contains basic ingredients combined with a fresh lemon taste.
- Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega is a certified Non-GMO supplement.
- Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega is Certified by a third party to be eco-friendly.
CONS
- It is costly
Product Description
Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega soft gels provide 1,100 mg of combined EPA and DHA. The sources for the supplements are wild-caught sardines and anchovies.
Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega is also lemon-flavored, which can help to mask the fishy aftertaste associated with other similar supplements.
Furthermore, Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega is confirmed to be a Friend of the Sea product, assuring that sustainable fisheries and aquaculture are supplement sources.
A certificate of analysis (COA) is also available for Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega.
The Best Fish Oil Supplement For The Heart
Life Extension Super Omega-3
- Price: $24.75
- Recommended Dosage: 2 softgels
- DHA in a single serving: 500 mg
- EPA in a single serving: 700 mg
- Servings per container: 60
Pros
- Third-party certification.
- High EPA content per serving
- Product is gluten-free
- Suitable for individuals with coronary heart diseases.
- GMO-free certification
Cons
- Users may not like the fishy taste or odor.
Product Description
The Life Extension Super Omega 3 supplement is one of the best fish oil supplements, with a good portion of combined EPA and DHA in each serving.
It is an excellent method to boost your omega-3 fatty acids intake.
Olive extract is also contained, which is high in antioxidants and has heart-healthy properties. Sesame seed lignans are also included because of their antibacterial and antioxidant properties, which help to keep the fish oil fresh.
IFOS is an organization that is trusted with assessing the quality and efficacy of fish oil supplements and has certified this supplement. It’s mostly created from anchovies harvested in a sustainable manner off the coast of Chile.
It comes in several formats, including enteric-coated softgels and softgels that are easy to swallow.
Best Fish Oil Supplement with CoQ10
Thorne Omega-3 with CoQ10
- Price: $47.89
- Recommended Dosage: 1 gelcap
- DHA in a single serving: 180 mg
- EPA in a single serving: 450 mg
- Servings per container: 90
Pros
- It contains an antioxidant called coenzyme Q10, which boosts energy production.
- Certified by a Third-party.
- The product is completely gluten-free.
Cons
- It is costly
Product Description
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a heart-healthy antioxidant that helps your cells generate energy and protects against oxidative damage and omega 3 fatty acids, makes this supplement a high-quality fish oil supplement.
Each gel capsule contains 630 mg of EPA and DHA from sustainably sourced cold-water fish and 30 milligrams of CoQ10.
TGA, an Australian government agency that oversees pharmaceuticals and supplements, has certified the product.
The Supplements go through four rounds of rigorous testing to ensure the finest quality. NFS International also accredits Thorne’s manufacturing facilities.
The Best Affordable Fish Oil Supplements
Innovix Labs Triple Strength Omega-3
- Price: $35.99
- Recommended Dosage: 1 softgel capsule
- DHA in a single serving: 360 mg
- EPA in a single serving: 480 mg
- Servings per container: 200
Pros
- Third-party certification.
- Covered by an enteric coating that doesn’t make you burp.
- You can consume the supplement once a day.
Cons
- The size of the capsule might be huge for some individuals.
Product Description
This Triple Strength Omega-3 supplement delivers a substantial amount of omega 3 fatty acids in a single capsule, making it an excellent alternative for those wishing to simplify their omega 3 fatty acid intake.
The capsules from Innovix Labs are from sustainable sources like anchovies, sardines, and mackerel. The fish have been cleaned of any potentially harmful compounds like mercury.
In addition, the capsules have an enteric coating that stops them from breaking down and dissolving in your stomach, preventing side effects including fish burps, odors, and aftertaste.
Best Fish Oil Gummies
Nature Made Fish Oil Gummies
- Price: $20.48
- Recommended Dosage: 2 gummies
- DHA in a single serving: 47.5 mg
- EPA in a single serving: 9.5 mg
- Servings per container: 75
Pros
- Third-party evaluation
- The gummies are easy to swallow or chew.
Cons
- DHA and EPA are present in modest amounts.
- Sugar is an added ingredient in the supplement.
Product Description
The gummy is a great method to boost your omega 3s consumption if you can’t consume soft gel capsules. They’re made from wild-caught ocean fish, and each serving contains 57 mg of EPA and DHA.
They’re also free of artificial colors and flavors and are USP-certified. But keep in mind that these gummies have significantly fewer omega-3 fatty acids than most other fish oil supplements. Furthermore, there are three grams of added sugar in each serving of these gummies.
Instead of relying solely on these gummies to meet your omega 3s needs, combine them with a well-balanced diet rich in omega-3-rich foods due to its minimal Omega-3 acids.
Best Mini Soft Gel
GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil
- Price: 39:37
- Recommended Dosage: 2 mini soft gel capsules
- DHA in a single serving: 266 mg
- EPA in a single serving: 734 mg
- Servings per container: 120
Pros
- Certified by ConsumerLab.
- The capsules have coatings to decrease aftertaste.
- A substantial amount of EPA and DHA is in the supplement.
Cons
- It might be difficult to swallow for some individuals.
Product Description
GNC Triple Strength Mini Fish Oil are two small soft gels that contain a lot of fish oil yet don’t have a fishy aftertaste. They’re enteric-coated, which means they’re covered with a substance that delays the release of the oils, allowing for a more neutral flavor.
The fish oil pills also come in a smaller size and have no flavor. Most fish oil capsules are likewise smaller and tasteless. Some individuals find swallowing fish oil soft gels difficult since they are quite big. They range from half an inch to over an inch.
GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil Mini supplements are easy to incorporate into your daily routine due to their small size. Two mini soft gel capsules, taken with food, are the recommended dose.
The omega 3s DHA and EPA are abundant in GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil Minis, with 1000 mg of Omega 3 acids in every dose. It is essential to check with a healthcare professional to find the optimum dose for your needs. ConsumerLab, a third-party organization, has tested and approved these supplements to assure they are fresh and free of heavy metals.
Best Fish Oil Supplement For Brain Health
Garden of Life Advanced Omega Fish Oil
- Price: $43.94
- Recommended Dosage: 2 softgels
- DHA in a serving: 465 mg
- EPA in a serving: 695 mg
- Servings per container: 45
Pros
- There is no aftertaste.
- Derived from renewable resources
- Advanced Omega has the most EPA as well as DPA.
Product Description
GTO utilizes cutting-edge extraction technology and chooses the most environmentally friendly raw materials while keeping the entire product Non-GMO Project Verified and Certified Sustainable.
The ingredients are traceable, eco-friendly, and long-term. This high potency Omega-3 formula sources are solely anchovies.
The supplement supports brain and heart health. The formula also includes SPM (Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators) ingredients, which provide the body with anti-inflammatory benefits.
Best Liquid Fish Oil Supplement
Carlson Finest Liquid Fish Oil
- Price: $34.90
- Recommended Dosage: 2 softgels
- DHA in a serving: 600 mg
- EPA in a serving: 800 mg
- Servings per container: 45
Pros
- Tasty lemon and orange flavor combined with minimal ingredients.
- Third-party certified.
- Supports the heart and brain function.
- GMO-free certification
- The liquid supplement may be more convenient for some individuals.
- Improve eye health
Cons
- The cap might leak out fluids.
Product Description
Carlson is famous for its tasty omega-3 fish oil and its health benefits. It reduces the fishy aftertaste with an orange or lemon flavor. This supplement is an amazing choice if you prefer liquid fish oil to soft gels or capsules.
There is 1,600 mg of EPA and DHA in a tablespoon of omega-3 fatty acids, with 1,300 mg coming from wild-caught anchovies, sardines, and mackerel.
It is not only IFOS certified but also non-GMO validated, which means it is devoid of genetically modified organisms.
There is an abundance of Vitamin E that serves as an antioxidant. Its taste makes it a great addition to smoothies and drinks.
Best Fish Oil Supplements With High EPA Level
Viva Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil
- Price: $41.99
- Recommended Dosage: 2 softgel capsules
- DHA in a serving: 480 mg
- EPA in a serving: 1400 mg
- Servings per container: 90
Pros
- Third-party certification.
- Presence of large amounts of Omega-3 fatty acid.
Cons
- The fishy odor may not be palatable for some individuals.
Product Description
This simple fish oil blend contains 2,000 mg of omega-3 fatty acids per serving, including 1,880 mg of combined EPA and DHA.
It’s created with small, wild-caught fish, including mackerel, anchovies, and sardines caught with sustainable fishing methods, and is IFOS-certified.
The oil is carefully purified, which helps in eliminating any fishy odors, burbs, or aftertaste.
Best Fish Oil For Kids
SmartyPants Toddler Fish Oil Gummies
- Price: $17.99
- Recommended Dosage: 2 gummies
- DHA and EPA per serving: 50 mg
- Servings per container: 30
Pros
- It boosts the immune system.
- Suitable for vegetarian kids.
- It may improve the mental health of kids.
- Chewable.
DHA And EPA are not specified individually
Product Description
The Smartypants Toddler fish oil is an organic, vegetarian multivitamin for kids ages 2 to 3 with more than a dozen quality nutrients. It has a portable amount of Omega 3s, and it is non-GMO.
However, it cannot guarantee a tantrum-proof or mood proof 100% product.
The SmartypantsToddler Fish Oil is AVA certified vegetarian and contains Omega-3, probiotics, and 14 important nutrients, including Biotin, vitamin D, and E.
The highest-quality ingredients added in every dose are simple-to-eat gummies that even picky toddlers like.
Who Is Not Supposed To Consume Fish Oil Supplement?
If you’re healthy and don’t risk heart disease, there’s no need to take fish oil supplements. Omega-3 fats are abundant in a well-balanced diet that includes fish. The American Heart Association recommends one to two servings of fatty fish each week for overall heart health.
Fish oil supplementation is currently not recommended for the following circumstances, according to research:
Individuals Preventing Strokes: There is no evidence that fish oil can prevent strokes, atrial fibrillation, or irregular heartbeat. Research conducted in 2021 concluded that omega-3 supplementation increased the incidence of atrial fibrillation.
Blood Thinners Consumers:
High-dose omega-3 supplementation can cause blood thinning. If you’re using an anticoagulant drug, you should only take fish oil supplements with your doctor’s advice.
Individuals On Blood Pressure Medication: Fish oil may somewhat drop blood pressure, so if you’re on medication, talk to your doctor before taking it.
Individuals With Inflammatory Bowel Diseases:
Those suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease, should abstain. The use of omega-3 supplements to treat inflammatory bowel illnesses is not supported by scientific research.
How Much is Fish Oil Excessive?
High levels of EPA and DHA may weaken the immune system. Unless told by a healthcare expert to act differently, the US Food and Drug Administration recommended that consumers take not more than 5 grams of EPA and DHA supplements per day.
Conclusion
Because of its health benefits, fish oil is a source of omega-3 fatty acids, an essential, necessary fat.
However, if you are healthy and don’t have a high risk of heart disease, a well-balanced diet that includes fish can provide enough omega-3s. You may benefit from a fish oil supplement if you don’t like the unpleasant taste of fish, have high levels of fat (triglycerides) in the blood, suffer from a terrible heart attack, or have experienced a heart attack recently.
There are a couple of factors to consider while choosing a supplement.
Because heavy metals can taint fish oil, make sure it’s been third-party tested to confirm it’s pure and safe and contains what it says on the label. Ensure that it is free of artificial additives and that the sources of omega 3 supplements are specified on the label.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids and What Are The Benefits?
Omega-3 fatty acids are a kind of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFAs) found primarily in fatty or oily fish and flaxseeds. They support brain function and heart health.
Are Fish Oil Supplements safe?
Yes, it is safe to consume fish oil supplements in the broadest sense.
However, some side effects may occur, including an unpleasant taste, fish odor, nausea, diarrhea, and heartburn. If you’re taking heart-disease medication, check with your doctor first. There’s a probability that blood thinners may interact with fish oil.
Is Fish Oil Beneficial for Cholesterol Reduction?
Fish oil is very good in marginally increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, beneficial to the heart. Fish oil appears to lower total and LDL cholesterol, responsible for some heart-related problems in some studies, whereas it has no impact in others. The freshness of fish oil, on the other hand, is critical. According to a 2017 study, rancid (oxidized) fish oil supplements are less effective than high-quality fish oil for lowering cholesterol. Supplementing with fish oil should not replace your usual medicine, and also consult with a medical doctor before consumption.
Is a Daily Dose Of Fish Oil Supplements Necessary?
With your doctor’s approval and supervision, you can take fish oil every day.
Are Fish Oil Supplements The Only Source Of Omega 3 Fatty Acids?
Omega-3 fatty acids are of three types: ALA, EPA, and DHA. EPA and DHA sources are fish oil, while ALA sources are plant oils such as canola oil, chia seeds, and flax seeds. Some omega 3 supplements are made from krill oil, cod liver oil, and algae oil rather than fish oil.
The majority of studies on the health benefits of omega 3 fatty acids have focused on EPA and DHA rather than ALA. This study is why fatty fish, fish oil supplements, and algal oil are all recommended sources of DHA and EPA.
Can Fish Oil Thin The Blood?
Fish oil may thin the blood, although this is dependent on the dose. Before taking fish oil supplements, talk to your doctor if you’re on a blood-thinning prescription.
Is Fish Oil Good For Lowering Blood Pressure?
Fish oil has a mild lowering effect on blood pressure. Before using fish oil supplements, check with your doctor if you’re taking blood pressure medication.
Is Fish Oil Beneficial To Your Joints?
The evidence for fish oil in treating joint pain is not reliable. According to research, taking fish oil can alleviate joint pain when used with other treatments/ dietary supplements.
What Are The Criteria Used To Pick the Best Fish Oil Supplements?
Purity and efficacy are intertwined. The connection is a good reason the best brands use fish oil from fish taken while they are extremely young and small, meaning they are less likely to have toxins in their flesh.
Certain supplements go through a distillation process to eliminate heavy metals, PCBs, dioxins, and other harmful compounds from fish oil.
Is Fish Oil Suitable To Avoid Mercury Exposure?
Toxins like mercury can be found in some particular types of fish, and mercury levels in fish are scarcely examined. The finest supplements have been tested for heavy metal contamination, including mercury.
Can pregnant women take fish oil supplements?
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential supplements for pregnant women. They ensure the healthy development of the embryonic neurological system. Fish oil supplementation can help a newborn’s brain, visual system, and motor ability.
Can fish oils boost hair growth?
DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are essential for the body’s proper functioning. Fish oil can also stimulate hair development, nourish and condition hair follicles, and protect against hair loss. You can apply fish oil directly to your hair or take fish oil capsules to improve hair health. Before using these supplements, ensure to talk to your doctor.
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