Fish oil has gained popularity in the last few years for its numerous benefits. It is prevalent among those who follow a healthy diet or are trying to lose weight. It is no secret that fish is one of the most nutritious foods you can eat. Fish is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients. Fish oil supplements also provide these same benefits in a concentrated dose.
So many fish oil supplements are available on the market that choosing the best one can be a mind-boggling task. The article contains all the information regarding Best fish oil supplements and a list of the best ones, so you can just find the one that meets all your requirements.
What are Fish Oil Supplements?
Fish oil is fat or oil extracted from the tissues of fish. It is rich in essential fatty acids (EFAs), which the body cannot produce itself. Fish oil is extracted from different types of marine fish, including herring, salmon, tuna, anchovies and krill.
Fish oil has grown in popularity as a dietary supplements. It is rich in two omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The usage of these supplements can have multiple health-enhancing benefits. Few benefits of fish oil are better joint health, improved cholesterol levels, and decreased inflammation.
Fish oil supplementation also helps prevent age-related diseases and supports the growth of brain tissues. They are great for the skin, hair and nails too. It may reduce the risk of developing diabetes, arthritis, asthma, psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions.
Why should you take Fish Oil?
Fish oil supplements have a wide range of health benefits for both your physical and mental health. It is packed with nutrients that are important to a healthy diet. If you don’t like fish or cooking is a problem, then fish oil supplements are a great alternative. They are more convenient to use, and the dosage is very precise. Some common advantages that can be gained from fish oil supplements are:
- Helpful in decreasing Triglyceride Levels
- Has the potential to boost brain health
- It may be beneficial for people recovering from a heart attack (it is known to be good for heart health)
- Can promote better eye health
- Known to help with Arthritic Pain and has anti-inflammatory properties
- It might help with depression
These are some of the fish oil benefits; it can turn out to be very beneficial if consumed in proper doses. But make sure to consult a doctor regarding the daily dose and use of supplements.
Different types of Fish Oil
Fish oil is a high source of Omega-3s, and most of the time, that works as the supplement’s key ingredient. However, the dosage of Omega-3s varies in all individuals depending on factors such as age and health conditions. It is different for males and females as well. Therefore, the type becomes essential as it is what fluctuates the dose level. At times, regular diets can also meet the daily needs of fatty acids.
Omega -3 has three different types:
- Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA): A long-chain omega 3, EPA can be found in oily fish and seafood such as sardines, mackerel, and salmon.
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA): This is another long-chain omega-3, DHA also comes from oily fish and seafood.
- Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA): This is another type of omega-3, which may be found in plant oils like soybean and flaxseed. Black walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds also contain omega-3s.
Soft gel capsules are one type of fish oil supplement; they are preferred because of their easy-to-swallow nature. Another type can be specified as liquid form, which is good when delivering a high dosage. They are even available in the form of capsules. Fish Oil supplements can even be categorized as natural and processed. Omega-3s can even occur in the form of Triglyceride, Ethyl ester, or Monoglyceride.
Now, let’s have a look at the Best Fish Oil Supplements
1. Life Extension Super Omega-3 EPA/DHA Fish Oil
First on our list of Best Fish Oil Supplement is the one which is tagged as one of the best fish oil supplements of today, packed with IFOS 5-star certified formula. Life Extension’s fish oil supplement includes EPA and DHA fatty acids, olive polyphenols and a few others that make it very potent. The blend effectively supports cardiovascular health and brain functioning. It includes sesame lignans and olive polyphenols, known to have cognitive and other bodily benefits.
It even contributes to maintaining already-healthy LDL & HDL cholesterol & triglyceride levels. Sesame extracts are known to enhance and protect heart health. You get fresh wild fish oil concentrate because it is processed in Chile within hours of harvest. It offers a 1200 mg of combined EPA and DHD with every serving. The formulation also includes antioxidant-rich olive extract, which has been proven to offer some heart protective benefits. It also contains Sesame seed lignans which is included in for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
The supplement is available in 3 versions: Softgels, enteric-coated softgels and easy-to-swallow softgels. The cost varies according to the type and count, ranging from $13.88-$26.25. The supplement is Gluten-free and Non-GMO. The reviews for the product are also very positive. The best part about choosing this brand is that it provides a year-long money-back guarantee. It even provides transparency in its ingredient list. But a negative part about it is its fishy taste.
Life Extension Super Omega-3 Plus EPA/DHA Fish Oil
$22.32
2. Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega
Another top-notch fish oil supplement that is doctor recommended. Ultimate Omega delivers the no. 1 omega-3 dose in the U.S. The supplement provides optimal overall wellness along with enhanced heart and brain health. It has a delicious lemon taste and comes in 2 different forms, liquid and softgels. The combined EPA and DHA which it provides is 600–850 mg , depending on the product you choose. 1280 mg of omega-3s is delivered from one serving in 2 soft gels and a total of 2840 mg of Omega-3s from a 5ml liquid. The popular concentrate is exclusively made from 100% wild-caught sardines and anchovies. Other ingredients include d-alpha tocopherol as an antioxidant and rosemary extract as a natural preservative. This supplement comes in flavors like unflavored, orange, strawberry, and lemon.
Amazon has awarded the product a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 3,375 global ratings. The supplement has earned Delicious Living’s Best Omega-3 and other 10+ industry awards. Both the forms are free from gluten, artificial colors or flavors. You can order a pack of 60, 90, 120, 180 or 210 for softgels and 4 or 8 ounces for its liquid version. The dosage may not be appropriate for all, so pay close attention to that. If you are thinking of placing a one-time order, that might turn out to be expensive. But buying the subscription can get you discounts. All the Nordic Naturals supplements are sustainably made and are non-GMO. They are also certified by third-party organizations like Friend of the Sea and European Pharmacopoeia.
Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega
$59.30
3. Nature Made Burp-Less Fish Oil
One of the negative factors of fish oil supplements is the fish burps. That fishy aftertaste is just so annoying. But worry not, Nature Made fish oil is here for your rescue. It has a combination of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids that supports heart health. The burp-less formula is even known to support eye health. The official site states, “Supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.” The supplement is sourced from high-quality ingredients and can be found in fatty fish. The fish oil comes from wild-caught ocean fish.
This liquid fish oil provides you with 360 mg of omega-3 per soft gel. Along with this, it also contains 250% of a person’s recommended vitamin D intake. The oil that is used in this product comes from wild ocean fish, and the company claims it removes mercury through purification. Nature Made supplements are also verified by the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), which is a nonprofit organization that sets strict standards for the strength, quality, packaging, and purity of supplements. The supplement also does not contain any artificial ingredients and is gluten-free.
The supplement is gluten-free and has no artificial flavors or colors. Other ingredients include Gelatin, Glycerin, methacrylic acid, copolymer, water, etc. The suggested dosage for adults is 2 softgels with water. A container with 60-count will cost $13.69, and the one with 200-count will cost $30.49 for a one-time purchase. A subscription can help you get a 10% discount. Enteric-coated softgels deliver a burp-free experience. Cons for the product is its large pill size. Also, the ingredient label is not very descriptive.
Nature Made Burp-Less Fish Oil
$29.51
4. GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil Mini
If you are looking for a quality-filled product, then your search ends here. GNC Triple Strength contains a total of 1500mg of total Omega 3 fatty acids. The fish oil is derived from wild, deep ocean fishes, making it a well-deserving choice. It delivers 3x the amount of EPA and DHA(900mg) compared to single-strength Omega Fish Oil Capsules (300mg). The supplement may support the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response. It is even an excellent supplement for brain and heart health. To concentrate essential Omega 3 fatty acids, it goes through various purification processes that help remove unwanted contaminants such as heavy metals and PCBs. It is coated with an enteric coating material that helps prevent fishy burps.
The mini soft gel format of the supplement is very effective. 240 soft gels are available for a rate of ₹2,299 on Amazon, but the official site has them for ₹3,524. It is ideal for elders, sports players, individuals with problems with dry eyes, and all age groups looking to achieve optimal health. The recommended dosage is 2 softgels a day. The supplement is tested and approved by ConsumerLab.
GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil Mini
5. Deva Vegan Omega-3 DHA EPA Softgels
Stands as one of the best fish oil supplements in India. Suppose you are looking for a vegan option but don’t want to compromise on the benefits. Then Deva Vegan Softgels are an incredible alternative. The formula contains 500mg of MG DHA-EPA, which comes from 1000 mg of Algae oil. This fish oil supplement is a little lower in EPA, with 150-210 milligrams per serving. It does not contain orange oil and rosemary extract for a light flavor. There is no fish in the product, so you don’t have to worry about a fishy aftertaste. It is encapsulated in non-animal vegan softgels. It is free from carrageenan and the fishy taste that fish oil supplements generally have. It is tailored for vegans and hence does not include gelatin or animal-derived ingredients. Prepared in an FDA-registered facility and with GMP.
It has other ingredients such as non-GMO tapioca starch, vegetable glycerin, purified water, high oleic sunflower oil, orange oil, rosemary extract, etc. 60 vegan softgels are available at a decent rate of $25.99. The supplement is registered with the vegan society. It is one of the best vegan alternatives in the market and has an overall Amazon rating of 4.6 stars. This supplement has also been tested and approved by ConsumerLab which is one of the most trusted third-party testers.
Deva Vegan Omega-3 DHA EPA Softgels
6. Thorne Omega-3 with CoQ10
Thorne is one of the trendy brands in the supplement world. Their omega-3 supplements are no exception to that. Its Gelcaps is a combination of essential fatty acids and Coenzyme Q10. The antioxidants and energy-enhancing properties of its ingredients work effectively. It even promotes healthy cardiovascular health. It also prevents oxidative stress, supports inflammatory response and maintains healthy brain functioning. It is easy to absorb and also supports kidney health. CoQ10 is regarded as the highest quality, purest fish oil.
It is loaded with 30 mg of Coenzyme Q10, 180mg of DHA and 450mg of EPA(serving per gelcap). Other mentioned ingredients include Gelatin, purified water Glycerin Gel Cap, and Mixed Tocopherols. The supplement is very neatly packed and is valued at a price tag of ₹10,499.
7. Barlean’s Omega Pals Fish Oil Supplements
Kids need more nutrition as it helps a lot in their nourishment and growth. Barlean’s fish oil supplement is specifically for children. The supplement comes loaded with 540 mg of DHA and EPA and is suitable for children above 1 year of age. Though it has multiple benefits, that is not its best part. It offers a variety of very delicious flavors. It can be easily fed as it is not in the form of capsules. It is free from sugar, gluten, GMOs, and dairy. It is naturally sweetened with the help of xylitol. It supports eye health and helps in growth. This Omega Pals fish oil from Barlean’s comes in a variety of kid-approved flavors, such as lemonade, tangerine, citrus, and strawberry banana. It provides a combined 540 mg of DHA and EPA.
Other than omega-3 fatty, it is filled with other ingredients such as water, fish oil, glycerin, gum Arabic, natural flavors, blueberry extract, citric acid, etc. The negative part is that it is a little expensive, and another thing to consider is that its not third-party tested.
Barlean's Omega Pals Fish Oil Supplements
$19.25
Fish oil supplements are typically safe for people to consume when used as recommended. However, although the supplements are mild, some people may experience side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. People might also experience a fishy aftertaste.
We would also recommend that people with allergies to iodine, fish or shellfish should avoid these fish oil supplements.
Few medications could interact with these supplements as they contain omega-3. These include blood thinners, such as aspirin and rivaroxaban, and glucocorticoids, such as cortisone and hydrocortisone. Also people with any medical conditions should talk with a doctor or healthcare professional before using these supplements.
Dosage of Fish Oil
The dosage of fish oil supplements will vary depending on the individual’s needs and what they are being used for. A high-quality general dose would typically be around 300 to 500 milligrams of EPA and DHA, but some treatments may involve higher doses of up to 4,000 milligrams per day. You can also consult a healthcare provider to find out the appropriate dosage for you. The National Institute of Health has formulated adequate intake for the omega-3 Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), which should be obtained from our diet.
Let’s check out what is the Adequate Intakes for Omega-3s according to the National Institutes of Health.
| From Birth to 6 months | 0.5 g |
| 7 to 12 months * | 0.5 g |
| 1-3 years*: | 0.7 g |
| 4-8 years** | 0.9 g |
| 9-13 years** | Males – 1.2 g, Females – 1.0 g |
| 14-18 years** | Males – 1.6 g, Females – 1.1 g |
| 19-50 years** | Males – 1.6 g, Females – 1.1 g |
| 51+ years** | Males – 1.6 g, Females – 1.1 g |
| Pregnant women | 1.4 g |
| Lactating women | 1.3 g |
*As total omega-3s
**As ALA
We often hear that too much supplement intake can be bad for your immune system. Therefore, the US Food and Drug Administration recommends that you not consume more than 5 grams of EPA and DHA from supplements each day unless told otherwise by a healthcare provider.
Demerits of Fish Oil Supplement
Cost: While fish oil is a great supplement, it is not great for your wallet. It is much more expensive than other types of dietary supplements, such as multivitamins. But it is totally worth it; the benefits that it brings along all contribute to your overall wellness.
Dosage: Fish oil is a very concentrated source of omega-3 fatty acids. Not for all, but some might be unable to cope with the dosage. So make sure you are well versed with the ingredients and their doses, or it may have severe side effects. Also, consult a medical professional before including this or any other supplement in your diet. Fish oil can also interact with some medications, so you need to talk to your doctor for more information.
Side Effects: Fish oil can also have a fishy aftertaste and smell that come with it. To avoid that, try using the Burp-less supplements. They are specifically designed to prevent that. Follow the suggested usage, and you should be good to go. If side effects occur, they should be normal such as upset stomach, nausea, etc.
Others: Exceeding the daily recommended dose can have severe effects such as nose bleed, heartburn or even worse. If you are allergic to fish, you should avoid taking fish oil supplements. It is also not suitable for pregnant women and children.
How is Omega 3 Beneficial for our health?
Dietary fats are essential for balanced nutrition and are known to play a critical role in supporting overall health and wellness, as well as providing the necessary nutrients for the body. Omega-3 fatty acids are one of two major classes of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) that is mainly produced by plant sources, while the other class, Omega-6 fatty acid, is mainly produced by animal sources.Most commonly, Omega-3 is found in certain foods like flaxseed and fatty fish such as salmon, trout, and mackerel.
There are several different omega-3 fatty acids, but three of them have strong nutritional significance: ALA, EPA, and DHA. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is the precursor to long-chain omega-3s like EPA and DHA. Research has shown that ALA has been reported to provide a variety of health benefits, including providing protection from heart disease, arthritis, and eczema, and may even help people with cardiovascular disease.
The American Heart Association recommends fish per week, especially for adults, to ensure proper omega-3 intake. Fortunately, if you are not a fan of eating fish or cannot eat fish because of dietary restrictions, there is an alternative. Omega-3 supplements come in both concentrated tablets and liquids that can provide you with the essential fatty acids your body needs to stay healthy. And of course, you can definitely fish oil supplements from our 7 Best Fish Oil Supplements.
How to find the Best Fish Oil Supplement for You
When shopping for fish oil, you should look for a few things to ensure you are getting a high-quality product. Check for the following in your fish oil supplement:
Good Quality: A good quality fish oil supplement is packed with tons of nutrients essential for a healthy diet. It gives you with the energy you need to stay focused and active throughout the day. It benefits your skin, hair and other parts. It is good for your bones and brain.
Form: Generally the fish oil supplements come in forms like capsules, liquids, softgels and gummies. The omega-3s can occur in few forms like:
Triglyceride: Omega-3s in fish oils occur naturally in the form of triglycerides. The most common supplements contain this form, however, some may have been converted to other types for purification and concentration.
Ethyl ester: This is one of the most common forms of fish oil and is created by exposing the oil to ethanol to remove any contaminants. The process also concentrates the EPA and DHA content in the supplement or medication.
Re-esterified triglycerides: This form is made by chemically converting ethyl esters back to its original triglyceride form.
Monoglyceride: This form of omega-3 is made by breaking down the triglyceride so the fatty acids can be easily absorbed, although your body will do this naturally.
Label: The product label should contain all the necessary information about the product. Please go through it so that you can know what you are buying. The label states the ingredients, the benefits, the dosage, the awards and other stuff about the product.
Third-Party Tested: A third-party lab will test your supplement to ensure it contains the ingredients that it claims to, and that these ingredients are not contaminated with any high-risk common contaminants. If you are concerned about the risk of fish contamination, it might be a good idea to consider third-party testing. Fish can accumulate toxins, which may include mercury and other heavy metals. These toxins could have a harmful effect on the nervous system if consumed.
Supplementation: It should have proper dosing of Omega-3 fatty acids. The levels of EPA and DHA matter a lot as they are the key ingredients that will help deliver results. The fish oil source is also something you need to pay attention to. The fished should be sustainably sourced. The type of your supplement also plays an important role.
Taste: This is an underrated factor but an important one. Go through the customer reviews to determine the taste of the supplement. Also, be aware of the aftertaste and fishy burps that might come along.
🌟 FAQ related to Best Fish Oil Supplements
✅Is it good to take Fish Oil every day?
You can take fish oil daily. Fish oil is likely safe for most people in doses of 3 grams or less per day. However, due to the significant anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 fats, heavy doses of fish oil over time (including at least 900 mg of EPA plus 600 mg DHA) may cause immune system suppression. It’s important to double-check the EPA and DHA levels in your fish oil before buying to ensure you don’t get one with this effect. Fish oil has side effects of heartburn, loose stools, and nosebleeds. These problems can be reduced by taking fish oil supplements with meals or freezing them.
✅When is the best time to eat Fish Oil Supplements?
When it’s most convenient and easiest for you to remember to take fish oil, that’s the perfect time to do it. Because fish oil doesn’t provide immediate effects, it is most important to take it regularly. Experience adverse effects from fish oil supplements, such as nausea or acid reflux. You may find that splitting the supplement into two smaller doses throughout the day makes it easier to stomach. It’s best to take a fish oil supplement with a fat-containing meal in the morning, afternoon, or evening for optimal absorption.
✅What does Fish Oil do for you?
Fish oil has grown in popularity as a dietary supplement. It is a source of omega-3 fats, giving you several health benefits. Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory, which means they may help with various conditions known to be linked to chronic inflammation, such as heart disease. EPA and DHA may help lower high triglyceride levels, a risk factor for heart disease. Few benefits of fish oil are better joint health, improved cholesterol levels, and decreased inflammation. Fish oil supplementation also helps prevent age-related diseases and supports the growth of brain tissues. They are great for the skin, hair and nails too. It may reduce the risk of developing diabetes, arthritis, asthma, psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions.
✅Is Fish Oil good for lowering blood pressure?
Fish oil has a slight lowering effect on blood pressure. Omega-3 fish oil contains both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that help prevent and treat heart disease. Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids may help to lower blood pressure. Before using fish oil supplements, check with your doctor if you’re taking blood pressure medication.
✅How long does it take for Fish Oil to work?
When you take omega-3 supplements, your body’s levels of omega-3s quickly rise. However, a significant change in mood, pain or other symptoms may take 6 weeks to 6 months. Fish oil can be a great way to boost your health. It can help maintain your heart, boost your mood, and even improve your joint health.
✅Is Fish Oil good for your hair?
In this regard, there has not been much research on fish oil for hairs. But while reviewing the best fish oil supplements, we did come across a case study that suggested that fermented fish oil can promote hair growth because there is DHA content present in it. But this is just research that needs further evaluation and research to know the effects of fish oil on hair health.
✅How much Fish Oil is safe to be taken everyday?
For those looking to explore the benefits of fish oil supplements, it is important to mention that most well-known health organizations have suggested that one should take a combined daily intake of 250–500 milligrams of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are believed to be effective for health. These figures may differ slightly according to age and health status.
✅Which is the best time to take Fish Oil Supplements?
The best time to take fish oil is when it’s most convenient and easiest for you to remember. This is because the benefits of consuming fish oil don’t come “overnight” but rather require consistent consumption over a period of time. Whether you take it in the morning, the afternoon, or at night, it’s recommended to take a fish oil supplement along with a fat-containing meal for optimal absorption.
✅Which medications should be avoided while taking Fish Oil Supplements?
Omega-3 products and fish oil supplements can have blood-thinning effects when ingested in high doses. As a precaution, they should not be taken by individuals on blood-thinning medications such as Warfarin (or other anticoagulants) without the approval of their healthcare professional.
✅Who can benefit majorly from Fish Oil Supplements?
Fish Oil product has benefits for all individuals, but following are the few medical conditions on which these oils works best:
– People with Eye Disease
– Rheumatoid arthritis
– Stroke
– Age-related muscular degeneration (AMD)
– Alzheimer Disease
– Heart Disease
However, until now no conclusive evidence of benefits has been found on fish oil for those living with these conditions.
✅How is the oil sourced?
Omega-3s are widely found in some natural foods and are also often added to fortified products. When it comes to sourcing fish oil, many different processes differ from company to company. Typically, a manufacturer will process whole fish, trimmings, and other fish byproducts for the oil.
✅Can Fish Oil lower cholesterol?
Fish oil supplements may raise levels of the HDL cholesterol (“good”) and may slightly lower the total and LDL cholesterol (“bad”), but there is conflicting evidence in certain studies about this. The freshness of fish oil is really important. Fish oil supplementation should not replace medication, and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
✅Can Fish Oil make your blood thinner?
Fish oil is a type of dietary supplement that many people use to improve their heart and brain health. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cardiovascular problems like a heart attack or stroke. However, it is possible that they may thin your blood if you overdose on it, so you need to speak to a healthcare provider before using them if you are on blood-thinning medication.
✅Does Fish Oil help with joints?
There is inconsistent research on the use of fish oil in the management of joint pain. Some studies have shown that it may modestly help relieve joint pain when used alongside other therapies, but there are other studies that show otherwise.
✅What is the difference between between omega-3 and omega 3 Fish Oil?
The main difference between fish oil and omega 3 is that fish oil is an oily substance extracted from the fats and tissue of fish, and omega 3 is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid.
✅Who should avoid taking Fish oil Supplements?
New research has found that omega-3 supplements can lead to an increased risk of atrial fibrillation in people with an existing or high risk of heart disease.
✅Which is better DHA or EPA?
A few online results suggested that DHA has a stronger anti-inflammatory effect than EPA. Also, DHA lowered the genetic expression of four types of pro-inflammatory proteins, whereas EPA lowered only one type. DHA lowered the secretion of three types of white blood cell pro-inflammatory proteins, whereas EPA only lowered the secretion of one type.
✅Can you take multivitamins and Fish Oil together?
In most cases, it is not necessary to take multivitamins and fish oil together. Multivitamins and fish oil are two of the most popular supplements on the market, and many people who take one also take the other. Some multivitamins supplements contain fish oil.
✅Can Fish Oil aid in weight loss?
While finding an answer to this question, we came across research by Kyoto University, which suggested that fish oil helps burn fat faster than all the fat-burning pills. This could lead to efficient weight loss for obese people in their 30s and 40s.
Conclusion
So here was our list of 7 Best Fish Oil Supplements. Fish oil can be a great way to boost your health. It can help maintain your heart health, boost your mood, and even improve your joint health. Plus, it has many other benefits as well, making it an essential part of a healthy diet. The list has various brands, each of which has different features and benefits. After choosing your preferred type of fish oil supplement, you can consider other factors. These include things like dosage, serving size, and product quality. Once you are all set with the perfect supplement, you are sure to reach optimal wellness within no time.
