Top Rated Fish Oil Brands

Fish oil supplements provide your body with the important omega-3 fatty acids, which it cannot synthesize. The only way you can obtain these essential fatty acids is through your diet or nutritional supplements. The most potent of these nutrients are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA). Taking fish oil is recommended, especially if you have high blood pressure or are at risk for high cholesterol. According to MayoClinic.com, fish oil can lower your blood triglyceride levels. If you take blood thinners, consult your doctor. Fish oil may compound the effects of these medications.

Nordic Naturals

Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Soft Gels contain both EPA and DHA fatty acids. A concern some people have with taking fish oil capsules is possible inclusion of mercury or PCBs. Nordic Natural purifies its fish oil products to ensure the removal of these harmful contaminants so that you can feel safe taking their products for the long term. Their product line includes both capsules and liquid forms. For those who find the fishy aftertaste offensive, they even offer strawberry-flavored capsules in a smaller dosage.

Carlson Laboratories

The Environmental Defense Council identified Carlson Laboratories' cod liver oil line of fish oil products as a best choice in its study of fish oil supplements and purity levels. The fact that you as a consumer know specifically the type of oil that you are taking can be helpful. If you should develop side effects from taking a specific oil, you can make better choices when the source has been identified. Carlson Laboratories, like Nordic Naturals, offers flavored capsules as well as chewable DHA tablets for children. In addition, their products are tested by an independent FDA-registered laboratory.

Spring Valley Fish Oil

The Spring Valley Fish Oil line is manufactured by Canada-based Ocean Nutrition Canada. Its line of products features its own omega 3 fish oil, MEG-3. This company takes the extra steps to ensure the quality of its products, complying with standards of the FDA, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, and the European Union. Two other things make this company stand out as a good choice for a fish oil brand.
First, its capsules are enteric coated. This coating can make it easier for sensitive individuals to take this capsule. A 1996 study in the Journal of New England Medicine confirmed the efficacy of enteric coated fish oil capsules with patients with Crohn's disease so that they may take advantage of fish oil anti-inflammatory effects.
Second, its MEG-3 has been identified for its purity by the United States Pharmacopeia, or USP. The USP is a standards--setting authority for health-care products sold in the United States. Verification by the USP means that you know that this product's quality has been tested.