With the emergence of information about the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, the use of fish oil as a dietary supplement is increasingly popular. According to studies reported in the Mayo Clinic, multiple tests have linked the intake of dietary fish oil supplements to a reduced risk of heart attack, abnormal heart rhythms, strokes, atherosclerotic plaques and high blood pressure. Whether you are looking to purchase fish oil as a recommendation from your personal physician or out of having conducted your own research, there are a number of factors to consider before making a final purchase.
Step 1
Visit your local health food store or medicine shop and examine the fish oil products available. According to the American Heart Association, fish oil is generally collected from fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, albacore tuna or lake trout. Search for these fish within the ingredients of each product while avoiding any fish oil generated from cod, which may contain higher levels of contaminants.
Step 2
Examine the DHA and EPA quantity listed in the product's nutritional facts. Select fish oils that contain a 40:20 EPA to DHA ratio as recommended by Physicians for Optimal Heart and Brain Health on the Energy First web resource. Decide whether or not you want any added vitamins or minerals.
Step 3
Consider whether or not you would prefer to take your fish oil in a liquid, capsule or softgel format. According to most fish oil manufacturers, there is little to no difference between the three types of taking the oil. If you do not enjoy the taste of fish, you should most likely select a capsule or softgel form for your fish oil.
Step 4
Narrow your choices to a "top three" of pharmaceutical-grade fish oils. Write down the name of each company and type of fish oil, and visit the website of each of the three fish oil companies. Research any relevant information about the company and their product, such as how long they've been in business, whether or not they are certified organic, if they have any promotional deals or sales prices, or any other information that can impact your purchasing decision.
Step 5
Decide on one of your three selected fish oils and try it out over the following three months, or until you finish the package. Follow the recommended dosage printed on the label by taking 1 tbsp. a day of the liquid form or two to three capsules or softgels. Try another fish oil once you are finished with your first choice and continue the testing until you are fully satisfied with your fish oil product.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult your friends and family to see if there are any fish oil brands they recommend or trust the most. Like some other industries, fish oil tends to vary greatly in quality depending on the brand and price of each oil.
- Do not consume fish oil 90 days after opening the package, even if it has been refrigerated. Consult your doctor or personal physician before self-administering a fish oil supplement to make sure it is a healthy option for you.
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