Many questions have been asked about Omega-3 fatty acids and the benefits they offer to our health. Suddenly there’s a rush, especially to the health-conscious individual, to have this nutrient in their daily lives. Consequently, because of such demand, the market now has been flooded with a wide range of Omega-3 products. Not that there is something wrong with that. After all, health is an important concern for everybody.
Research shows that Omega-3 fatty acids have many benefits to the health. There are three types of Omega-3 fatty acids namely EPA or eicosapentaenoic acid, DHA or docosahexaenoic acid, and ALA or alpha-linolenic acid. The first two are derived mainly from fish oils. DHA can also be extracted from algae.
ALA oils are plant-based and mostly come from nuts and seeds. Although effective, this type has less potent health benefits than the EPA and DHA. Additionally, you’d have to eat a lot to gain the same benefits as you do from fish oils. What then, should be the basis for supplement choice? Is it one with EPA and DHA or the plant-based ALAs? Is a combination advisable? Read further, hopefully, this treatise can provide answers as to which Omega-3 supplement is the best for you.
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Dr. Tobias Omega 3 Fish Oil
This omega-3 supplement is different from all others out there. with each softgel capsule, you will be able to get all the benefits of the supplement that’s non-GMO and made from wild fish. It has an excellent absorption-aiding ratio of DHA and EPA as well. The softgels also have an enteric coating to make it easier to absorb and to help prevent a fishy aftertaste too.
The Dr. Tobias Omega 3 Fish Oil will help you get up to 4 times more of the essential Omega-3s than other brands out there. The supplements will promote the health of the heart, joints, brain, skin, hair, mood, and mental state as well. You’re ensured of purity because this supplement has undergone molecular distillation.
The purification method used to make these capsules is one which can purify them from PCBs, heavy metals, and other kinds of toxins to make it safe for the consumption of humans. It’s a third-party tested supplement made with safe and high-quality ingredients. It also has label accuracy as well as nutritional value.
Pros
- It gets absorbed by the body better and it doesn’t give a fishy aftertaste.
- Pure supplements which undergo molecular distillation.
- Guaranteed safe as it’s been tested by a third party.
Cons
- May cause heartburn in some people.
- Not recommended for those with Crohn’s disease.
Nordic Naturals – Ultimate Omega
This is another excellent Omega-3 supplement which will provide you with concentrated levels of the essential Omega-3s. Taking this supplement will help enhance the function of the immune system and support the health of your brain and your heart. It includes EPA and DHA which supports the overall wellness to make you look and feel healthier.
The Nordic Naturals – Ultimate Omega is made with an ultimate formula and it has an appealing taste. The supplement helps promote the health of your immune system to improve its function as well as your metabolism. It also supports healthy levels of blood sugar. It’s made from sustainably-sourced and wild-caught fish.
Also, the oils in this supplement have been tested to make sure that they don’t contain any environmental toxins and heavy metals. The formula of this supplement is also produced in genuine triglyceride form to guarantee the best results and optimal absorption too. It comes from a well-known and leading brand in the fish oil industry for years now.
Pros
- Beneficial omega-3 supplement which will support your overall health.
- Each capsule is made with an ultimate formula and has a great taste.
- Sourced from sustainable fish caught from the wild.
Cons
- Some claim it has a fishy smell.
- The capsules are quite oily.
Arazo Nutrition Omega 3 Fish Oil
This Omega-3 supplement has higher levels of DHA and EPA than a number of other brands available now. It’s an ultra-refined and pure supplement. The Arazo Nutrition Omega 3 Fish Oil was made using molecular distillation in order to remove toxins such as mercury, PCBs, heavy metals, and more. It’s made with wild caught fish from the ocean and it even comes with a natural lemon flavor. This is a reliable supplement that doesn’t have a smell and is burpless.
Pros
- Contains higher levels of DHA and EPA than other brands available.
- Refined and ultra-pure supplements which have undergone molecular distillation.
- Burpless capsules with a natural lemon taste.
Cons
- It may cause gut pain in some people.
- The capsules may melt together.
Viva Naturals Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplement
This supplement is made with a formula that’s highly potent. It’s made with a special method known as supercritical extraction which concentrates the Omega-3 content in the fish oil. This means that the Viva Naturals Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplement contains three times the amount in each serving compared to other brands. This Omega-3 supplement supports the health of the eyes, brain, skin, and heart. It’s also designed for enhanced absorption and it doesn’t have a fishy aftertaste.
Pros
- Made with a high-potency formulation without the fishy aftertaste.
- Supports the health of your heart, skin, brain, and eyes.
- Gets absorbed by the body well.
Cons
- May cause fishy burps.
Nutrigold Triple Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement
This product has been sourced, manufactured, and processed in the US. It’s sourced from fish in Alaska and processed immediately on vessels which have been inspected by the FDA. The Nutrigold Triple Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement is also molecularly distilled in order to ensure exceptional purity. It’s a premium Omega-3 supplement which is also potent and of the highest quality. This product is definitely another great one to consider.
Pros
- Premium Omega-3 supplement which is easily absorbed by the body.
- Made with advanced molecular distillation to ensure purity.
- Contains highly-concentrated fish oil that’s pharmaceutical-grade.
Cons
- May cause tummy trouble in some people.
NOW Ultra Omega 3 Fish Oil
This Omega-3 supplement is affordable and made with natural, high-quality ingredients. The NOW Ultra Omega 3 Fish Oil supplements have an enteric coating and have also undergone the process of molecular distillation. Taking these will support your cognitive functions as well as the brain and the cardiovascular system. It also contains 250 DHA and 500 EPA to ensure that you get all the health benefits you desire.
Pros
- Supports the health of the cardiovascular system as well as cognitive functions.
- Contains EPA as well as DHA.
- Comes from a well-known and trusted brand.
Cons
- It’s not a burpless supplement.
- Some customers don’t appreciate the smell.
Natural Factors – Rx Omega-3
Here’s another great supplement which will support the health of your heart. It also contains high amounts of DHA and EPA to support your overall health. The Natural Factors – Rx Omega-3 is a pharmaceutical-grade product which will provide you with high-potency DHA and EPA. It has strict standards for quality control which means that it doesn’t contain heavy metals and other environmental contaminants which can be toxic.
Pros
- Supports the health of the heart as well as the overall health.
- A high-quality supplement which contains EPA and DHA.
- Highly purified fish oil supplement that’s safe and beneficial.
Cons
- Has a very strong fish smell.
- Contains soybeans.
Bronson Omega 3 Fish Oil
This Omega-3 supplement will provide you with extra-high potency. It’s made with the best ingredients out there. It’s a safe and effective supplement that’s suitable for men, women, and children too. The Bronson Omega 3 Fish Oil is a non-GMO product that’s also soy and gluten-free. To make you even more confident about the product, it even comes with a 1-year money-back guarantee that’s completely hassle-free!
Pros
- High-potency supplement which is effective and safe.
- Tested for heavy metals and is free of GMO, gluten, and soy.
- Comes with a money-back guarantee that’s hassle-free.
Cons
- It’s quite heavy on the stomach.
- Some don’t appreciate the taste.
MegaRed 750mg Ultra Concentration Omega-3 Krill Oil
This Omega-3 supplement is sourced from krill. Its purity is up to 3x more than the regular krill oil supplements out there and it’s also easily-absorbed by the body. Just a single softgel capsule will provide you with an excellent blend of Omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin which is a potent antioxidant. The MegaRed 750mg Ultra Concentration Omega-3 Krill Oil will support your overall health and it may also help reduce the risk of coronary heart diseases.
Pros
- Contains DHA and EPA which may help lower the risk of coronary heart disease.
- Gets absorbed by the body easily.
- Doesn’t have a fishy smell or aftertaste.
Cons
- May cause tummy issues.
- Contains artificial sweeteners.
Carlson Limited Edition The Very Finest Fish Oil
This supplement will promote the health of your joints, vision, heart, and brain. It’s a superior Omega-3 supplement which will provide you with DHA and EPA. The Carlson Limited Edition The Very Finest Fish Oil is made with sustainably-sourced, wild-caught sources. It contains only the most potent and purest oil from the deep and unpolluted waters. If you’re looking for a product that’s potent, pure, and fresh, then this is the one for you.
Pros
- Supports the health of the brain, heart, eyes, and joints.
- Comes in a lemon flavor to mask the fishy taste.
- Made with sustainably-sourced, wild-caught fish.
Cons
- Some customers still don’t appreciate the taste.
- Also, some don’t like the smell.
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Who Needs Omega 3 Supplements?
Omega-3 has health benefits and it’s being recommended by the American Heart Association. Despite this, many are still don’t eat enough fatty fish to meet the required levels. But Omega-3 fatty acids should be included in our diets, either from food sources, supplements or both.
If you care about your cardiovascular system, you should include Omega-3 supplements in your daily regimen. Doing so would reduce the danger of heart diseases, lower levels of triglyceride, and reduce joint pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Many studies have shown these fatty acids can lower high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This makes Omega-3 supplements more essential to your health, especially since the body can’t produce them naturally.
What Are Omega 3 Supplements?
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids. The oils, DHA and EPA, are found in fish that commonly live in cold waters. Some Omega-3 oils are plant-based (ALA) and are extracted from seeds, nuts, and leafy vegetables.
The body already contains Omega-3 essential fatty acids and are found all throughout. It serves to insulate and protect all the body cells. This is perhaps the reason why Omega-3 supplements became so popular. The range of its health benefits are indeed numerous and this has been proven by numerous clinical studies conducted over many years.
The Omega-3 fatty acids that are found in the body were derived from eating foods that contain fatty acids. Unfortunately, by itself, the body cannot produce these substances. This makes it very important that we get these essential fatty acids into our systems by eating foods rich in them. Or we can take Omega-3 as dietary supplements.
When it comes to Omega-3 supplements, there is a wide selection to choose from. Always make it a point to read the product’s label to make sure you have the right choice. Don’t entertain products that contain heavy metals, artificial coloring, caramel coloring, and dioxins. The label should state the Omega-3 source, its total Omega-3 content, and should be high in DHA and EPA fatty acids.
What Are the Benefits of Omega 3 Supplements?
Omega-3 fatty acids are indeed a blessing from nature. With them in our daily regimen, our bodies will be nourished for life. Without them, we won’t feel quite well. Omega-3 is a polyunsaturated long-chain fatty acid which our bodies cannot produce on its own. It’s unlike other vitamins and minerals. Vitamin D, for instance, can be produced by the body with the help of sunlight. With Omega-3, the only way you can get it into your system is to consume it.
The many benefits that Omega-3 can offer include heart, brain, and eye health. It also contributes to skin health and helps our joints function properly. The more reason why medical professionals recommend that these fatty acids should be included in our daily intake, whether it be from food sources or supplements. Let’s go through the different benefits of such supplements.
First of all, it’s beneficial for the brain. Most of us are not even aware that the brain is composed of about 60% fat and a large part of such is Omega-3.
Also called “brain food,” Omega-3 does fit its alias. It’s essential for healthy brains, especially in children where brain development is at its highest. For the older folks, Omega-3 can slow down memory loss due to age and can counter depression.
It’s also great for mothers and babies. Start your babies early on Omega-3 foods because it’s essential for the child’s brain and nervous system development. It will also improve their eyesight. Mothers should also help themselves to Omega-3 foods to keep their brains healthy as well.
Furthermore, it can improve their mood. As an added benefit, Omega-3 can also reduce the occurrence of allergies and asthma in children.
Your heart will benefit from Omega-3 as well. If your heart could only talk, it cannot thank you enough for including Omega-3 in your diet. Not only will it keep your “pump organ” in good condition, Omega-3 can also lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis by controlling inflammations and thinning the blood for it to flow smoothly. This is why Omega-3 now is the most popular supplement for strong and healthy hearts.
Finally, it’s beneficial for the joints too. Omega-3 supplements can offer you a more nimble lifestyle. This is directed to people who are suffering from arthritis. Taking Omega-3 supplements can reduce joint inflammation by keeping the joints lubricated. This also applies to fitness fanatics who spend hours toning their bodies in the gym. The supplement can reduce the risk of injuries that can be incurred during intense exercises.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of Omega 3 Supplements?
The FDA has approved the consumption of Omega-3 as a substance that can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Research has been conducted about the benefits of fatty acids to the body. We have earlier enumerated the benefits of Omega-3. However, Omega-3 supplements also have their downsides, despite its numerous benefits.
One potential side effect of such supplements is bleeding. Since Omega-3 has blood-thinning properties, those who have bleeding disorders should be cautious when taking the supplement. This also applies to those who take blood-thinning medications. There’s an increase in the risk of bleeding if Omega-3 is taken in high dosages. In such cases, the person would experience nosebleeds or may have blood in their urine.
One may also experience intestinal discomfort. Taking Omega-3 supplements may cause discomfort, nausea, and even a bad aftertaste. The latter is especially true with fish oils. Diarrhea, acid reflux, heartburns, abdominal pains, and burping are also common complaints. To reduce these side effects, it’s suggested that the supplement is taken with meals. Also, start with a low dosage which you can gradually increase over time.
Hypotension may also occur. This is a medical term for low blood pressure. Since Omega-3 is a substance that helps in reducing high blood pressure, having them as supplements for people with low blood pressure or for those who take medications for low blood pressure, should be cautious.
Such supplements can cause high blood sugar levels. Studies conducted have indicated that Omega-3 supplements may increase blood sugar and this may interact with the medications of diabetics which lower their blood sugar. But this is still under further study because current evidence doesn’t suggest any long-term effects on blood sugar. Just to be sure, diabetics should consult with their doctors before using the supplement.
Some may also experience an allergic reaction because of Omega-3 supplements. Those who have allergies or a sensitivity to fish products are advised not to take Omega-3 supplements. Other side effects of Omega-3 can include rashes, abnormal functioning of the liver, and at times, psychological disorders
What Are the Common Oil Sources of Omega 3 Supplements?
Almost all Omega-3 oils are available in either capsule or soft gel forms. This makes them agreeable to consumers because they’re easier to swallow. For capsules, the outer coating is made from a soft layer of gelatin. Some makers though use enteric coatings and these keep the capsule from dissolving until it reaches the small intestine where it is absorbed.
This enteric coat also prevents fish burps. The taste and smell of fish oils are foul and rancid. From time to time, smell your supply of fish oils to make sure that they have not gone rancid. Omega-3 supplements are sourced differently by manufacturers and these come in different forms.
A common source of such supplement is natural fish oils. These are extracted from the tissues of oily fishes and most come in triglyceride form. This form is probably the closest to actual fish. Such fish oils contain several essential nutrients. In composition, the oils are about 30% Omega-3, both DHA and EPA. The other 70% comprises other types of fatty acids which may help in the absorption process.
Aside from fatty acids, natural fish oils also contain vitamin A and vitamin D. When fermented, you would also find vitamin K2. Some sources of fish oils are those that are harvested in ocean cold waters. Natural fish oils usually come in the form of a liquid. Also, they’re more a lot more resistant to spoilage than those that have been processed.
There are also processed fish oils. These types of fish oils are usually purified or concentrated. This converts the fats into the form of ethyl ester. The process of purification is done to eliminate contaminants in the oil.
Concentrated fish oils have higher levels of DHA and EPA. Processed fish oil is mostly available in the market today. They are not expensive and mostly bought in capsules, a preference of consumers.
Natural fish oils are easily absorbed by the body. Processed ones, not so much. This is one reason why some manufacturers convert them back into an artificial form of triglyceride for easier body absorption. When converted, they are called reformed triglycerides and these supplements are the most costly ones available.
Krill oil can be a source too. Krill contain Omega-3 fatty acids in both phospholipid and triglyceride form. Studies show that the Omega-3 from krill can be absorbed easily into the body as well as triglycerides in found in fish oils, at times even better.
Compared to the other Omega-3 sources, krill oil is more effective as resisting oxidation because it contains a natural and powerful antioxidant known as astaxanthin. Krill have very short life spans and logically, they would be accumulating fewer contaminants in their lives. This means that krill oils need not undergo purification. There is a slim chance or none at all, to find krill oils in ethyl ester form.
Another possible source is green-lipped mussel oil. The Omega-3 fatty acids are extracted from the green-lipped mussels which are native to New Zealand. The oils come in triglyceride form as well as fatty acids. They contain the usual DHA and EPA, plus ETA or eicosatetraenoic acid. This is the most effective in the lowering of inflammations as against the other types of Omega-3 fatty acids. The oil is rarely found in health stores but consuming green-lipped mussel oil is considered environmentally friendly.
Mammalian oil may also be a source. This type is extracted from the blubber of seals and is in triglycerides form. Aside from DHA and EPA, it also has DPA or docosapentaenoic acid. This is an uncommon fatty acid which has its own benefits. The Omega-3 in this oil has exceptionally low Omega-6 contents.
ALA oil is the plant-based Omega-3 fatty acid and is also a potential source. ALA or alpha-linolenic acid and is found in high levels in plant seeds. This type of oil still has to be converted into DHA or EPA to be able to serve its functions. This may be a little bit more difficult because the human body is extremely limited to conversion. Plant oils have higher Omega-6 contents than Omega-3.
Algal oil is another type. Marine algae, specifically microalgae, are an important element in the ocean’s food chain. These serve as food for small fish, which, in turn, become food for bigger fish, and so on. Since these microalgae are good triglycerides sources of EPAs and DHA, the EPAs and DHAs of the bigger fish along the food chain originated from these microalgae.
An examination of the contents of microalgae showed that this oil contains a lot more Omega-3s, especially DHA than fish oils are. Furthermore, it contains essential minerals and it doesn’t contain heavy metals or other contaminants. Algal oil is a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids, especially for vegans and vegetarians. What makes algal even more attractive is that they are sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Important Factors To Keep In Mind
Basic Features of the Omega 3 Supplement
Don’t just buy Omega-3 supplements on impulse. It would only take a few minutes to scan over the label carefully. This will ensure you are buying the best supplement for yourself. First of all, check the type of Omega-3. A lot of Omega-3 supplements typically contain little or no DHA and EPA at all. These are the most relevant types of Omega-3. You need to make sure that your choice will contain these.
Also, look at the amount of the Omega-3. Don’t be fooled by front labels as you may read different readings on the label’s back. Next, also consider the form. Look for Omega-3s that are readily absorbed by the body. Choose those which are all Omega-3 forms that are easily absorbed.
Freshness is a huge factor too. Fish oils are rancid and tend to spoil over a period of time. Once their time is up, they would become foul-smelling, tend to be less potent and worse, can become harmful. Check not just the date but the product’s smell as well.
Taste of the Omega 3 Supplement
How do Omega-3 taste like? If fish oils, by themselves, don’t taste or smell good, will supplements have the same effect on the senses? Taste is a relevant factor which will be part of your decision. Luckily, supplements have been coated with flavors that can cover up the fish oil’s flaws.
Most brands now offer natural flavors that can appeal to your senses. In addition, these flavors are all natural, derived from plants, vegetables, fruits, spices, and roots. Some supplements have even exceptionally clean taste making them easier to enjoy.
Purity of the Omega 3 Supplement
By now, we should all be aware of how mankind has polluted our oceans and that marine life are at the forefront of this catastrophe. Krill, fish, mammals, algae, and more are the sources of Omega-3 supplements. Therefore, the purity of the substance has now been compromised as our sources now contain unwanted pollutants and heavy metals in their bodies.
When choosing your supplement, be sure that it has undergone third-party testing to ensure that it’s pure. In this process, the supplement is tested for purity and quality, making sure that it meets or even exceeds the standards set by the industry. Some supplements are even given to independent laboratories to perform the third-party verifications. For purposes of transparency, all the results appear on the websites for consumers to see, Your health is at stake here. Be sure to choose the brand you believe will give you what you pay for.
Sustainability of the Omega 3 Supplement
Consider the environmental impact of your choices if you decide on a more natural approach to improve and maintain your health. Because of demand for Omega-3 fatty acids, specific fish species are being in danger because of over-fishing. You can do something about this by simply looking for alternative sources of Omega-3 fish oils.
The oil can be extracted from more sustainable sources like mackerel, sardines, anchovies, and even wild squid. Or you can try vegetarian sources too. If all of us can do this, we can ensure the health of the ocean’s fish population. We can make high-quality Omega-3 supplements from sustainable species taken from sustainable and well-managed fisheries. Sustainability will work if manufacturers actively and directly work with the environmental groups and scientists in promoting and encouraging sustainable management of fisheries.
Format And Absorption of the Omega 3 Supplement
Supplements are taken to improve one’s health. There is now an abundance of supplements that are flooding the health market these days. How many pills would you need each day? At one point, it becomes so hard to swallow yet another pill.
Maybe it’s time to try something in liquid form. You can start with an Omega-3 supplement. One factor to remember when choosing the right Omega-3 is how easily it can be absorbed by the body. Buy one that is in triglyceride form because of its fast absorption. And remember, don’t get those in ethyl ester form.
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Conclusion
Omega-3 supplements are the most popular among the thousands of supplements available in the market today. This is because of the multiple benefits they offer to the health of the human body. Taking these could improve brain and nerve performance, not to mention their role in helping prevent and alleviating certain diseases.
Omega-3 supplements can either be extracted from fish or from plants. On the fish’s side, salmon, mackerel, and tuna are the main sources. On plants, Omega-3 is extracted from nuts, seeds, and sea algae. There are several factors to consider when choosing the best Omega-3 brand. Be sure to know these so you can get the best choice that will be worth the money you paid for.
