Fish oil supplements are often linked to numerous health benefits, but choosing a "good" fish oil supplement can be difficult with the wide variety of brands and types. However, looking at the details provided on the supplement label and nutrition facts can reveal important information regarding the purity of the fish oil, amount of fish oil, additional ingredients and recommended dosage.
Types
Fish oil is obtained from the skin and tissues of various fish species such as salmon, cod or herring. As a result, supplements can contain oil from one or more fish. Some fish may contain higher levels of different essential fatty acids, resulting in some companies producing a blend of numerous fish oils to combine the benefits of multiple fish. Good fish oil supplements will also contain pure fish oil that has been tested for mercury and other environmental contaminants.
Features
Common features found on good fish oil supplements include the specific quantities of the essential fatty acids --- commonly expressed as "EFA." Fish oil naturally contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) that are listed on the nutrition label on good fish oil supplements. These fatty acids are listed as essential because the body can't produce them on its own.
Size
The amount of fish oil and essential fatty acids will depend on the serving size and overall purity of the supplement. For example, a good fish oil supplement with a larger serving size and pure fish oil will contain a higher amount of essential fatty acids. The liquid Sealogix pharmaceutical grade fish oil contains 2,700 mg of essential fatty acids while the Perricone MD Nutriceuticals Omega-3 contains only 170 mg per serving. Good fish oil supplements will commonly provide more than 500 mg of essential fatty acids per serving.
Considerations
Numerous ingredients can be added to fish oil supplements, but the best supplements will contain a short list of ingredients. According to the Mayo Clinic, you have several other considerations when choosing a good fish oil supplement. Good fish oil supplements should be able to be kept in the freezer without the oil freezing. Reducing fishy burps without effecting digestion can be achieved by taking the frozen capsules before a meal and finding an "odorless" supplement with an enteric coating.
Benefits
Good fish oil supplements can provide numerous health benefits. According to the American Heart Association, consuming omega-3 fatty acids and essential fatty acids can improve overall heart health by decreasing triglyceride levels, blood pressure and the growth of atherosclerotic plaque. Other health benefits associated with fish oil supplements include prevention of cancer, arthritis and diabetes.
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