15 Best Fish Oil Supplements of 2023, According to Dietitians

On May 26, 2023May 26, 2023By admin

Fish oil supplements are an excellent way to increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, which provide numerous health benefits. In this comprehensive guide, we have compiled a list of the 15 best fish oil supplements of 2023, according to dietitians. We will also discuss the benefits of fish oil, how to choose a high-quality supplement, and the potential side effects.

Introduction to Fish Oil Supplements

Fish oil supplements are derived from the fatty tissues of fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and numerous health benefits. If you don’t regularly consume fish, taking a fish oil supplement can be a quick and convenient way to increase your intake of these essential nutrients.

Benefits of Fish Oil

Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil supplements offer a number of health benefits, such as:

Heart Health: EPA and DHA have been shown to reduce inflammation, lower triglyceride levels, and decrease the risk of heart disease.

Brain Health: Omega-3s play a crucial role in brain function and development during infancy and childhood, while in adults, they may help prevent cognitive decline and stroke.

Eye Health: Omega-3s are necessary for proper eye development and may help treat dry eye disease. Mental Health: Some studies suggest that omega-3 supplementation may have a positive effect on mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety.

Joint Health: Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and other joint-related conditions.

Types of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids:

Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA): Mainly found in fish oil, EPA is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA): Also found in fish oil, DHA is crucial for proper brain and eye development.
Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA): Found in plant sources, such as flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts, ALA must be converted to EPA and DHA in the body before it can be used.

How to Choose a Fish Oil Supplement

When selecting a fish oil supplement, consider the following factors:

Supplement Quality: Look for products that have undergone third-party testing and are certified by independent organizations like IFOS, USP, NSF International, or the TGA. Avoid supplements containing fillers or artificial ingredients.

Dosage: Pay close attention to the amount of EPA and DHA in the supplement. The recommended daily intake of combined EPA and DHA is 250-500 mg.

Fish Oil Source: Opt for supplements with oil from smaller, sustainably caught fish like sardines and anchovies, which tend to have lower levels of mercury.

Supplement Type: Fish oil supplements come in various forms, including softgels, liquids, and gummies. Choose the one that suits your preferences and needs.

15 Best Fish Oil Supplements of 2023

Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega: This top-rated supplement offers a high concentration of EPA and DHA and is sourced from sustainably caught fish. It has also been third-party tested for purity and freshness.
Life Extension Super Omega-3: Made from sustainably sourced fish, this supplement provides a balanced dose of EPA and DHA, as well as olive fruit extract for additional health benefits.
Nature Made Fish Oil: This affordable option is USP verified and contains a good amount of EPA and DHA per serving.
Viva Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil: Sourced from wild-caught fish, this supplement offers a high concentration of EPA and DHA in the triglyceride form, which is more easily absorbed by the body.
Barlean’s Fresh Catch Fish Oil: This ultra-purified fish oil supplement is sourced from sustainable fisheries and comes in a liquid form for those who prefer not to take capsules.
Carlson Labs Very Finest Fish Oil: With a high concentration of omega-3s per teaspoon, this liquid supplement is sourced from wild-caught fish and has been third-party tested for purity.
NOW Supplements Ultra Omega-3: This affordable fish oil supplement is molecularly distilled for purity and provides a good amount of EPA and DHA per serving.
Dr. Tobias Omega-3 Fish Oil: With a high concentration of EPA and DHA, this supplement is made from wild- caught fish and has been third-party tested for purity and potency.
MegaRed Advanced 4-in-1 Omega-3: This unique supplement combines fish oil with krill oil, providing a blend of EPA, DHA, and astaxanthin for additional antioxidant benefits.
Garden of Life Oceans 3 Beyond Omega-3: Made from sustainably harvested fish, this supplement includes a blend of EPA and DHA, as well as a proprietary antioxidant blend containing astaxanthin and fucoxanthin.
Thorne Research Super EPA: This high-quality fish oil supplement provides a concentrated dose of EPA and DHA and has been third-party tested for purity and potency.
Jarrow Formulas EPA-DHA Balance: This supplement offers a balanced ratio of EPA and DHA and is derived from sustainably sourced fish.
Pure Encapsulations EPA/DHA Essentials: Made from sustainably sourced fish, this hypoallergenic supplement is free of artificial ingredients, fillers, and common allergens.
Omegavia Fish Oil: This pharmaceutical-grade fish oil supplement offers a high concentration of EPA and DHA and has been third-party tested for purity and freshness.
InnovixLabs Triple Strength Omega-3: Sourced from wild-caught fish, this supplement provides a high dose of EPA and DHA in the triglyceride form and has been third-party tested for purity.

How Much Fish Oil Should You Take?

Most health organizations recommend taking 250-500 mg of combined EPA and DHA per day, with slight variations depending on your age and health status. For ALA, the daily recommended intake is 1.1 g per day for women and 1.6 g per day for men.

Potential Side Effects of Fish Oil

Common side effects of fish oil supplements include fishy burps, nausea, and diarrhea. To minimize these side effects, consider taking “burpless” fish oil supplements, taking the supplement with a meal, or splitting the dose into smaller amounts throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should you take fish oil every day?

A: Yes, you can take fish oil every day, but be cautious about taking high doses of fish oil, as it may suppress the immune system due to its powerful anti-inflammatory effects.

Q: When is the best time to take fish oil?

A: The best time to take fish oil is when it’s most convenient for you, as consistency is more important than timing. If you experience side effects, consider splitting the dose throughout the day and taking the supplement with a fat- containing meal for optimal absorption.

Q: Is fish oil good for your hair?

A: Some studies suggest that fermented fish oil may promote hair growth due to its DHA content. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of fish oil on hair health.

Q: What medications should not be taken with fish oil?

A: High doses of fish oil supplements can have blood-thinning effects, so you should not take them without a healthcare professional’s approval if you’re also taking blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin or other anticoagulants.

Useful Supplement Shopping Guides

To help you make informed decisions when shopping for supplements, check out these articles:

How to Choose High-Quality Vitamins and Supplements

How to Read Supplement Labels Like a Pro

Conclusion

Fish oil supplements can be a beneficial addition to your daily routine, providing essential omega-3 fatty acids for optimal health. By carefully selecting a high-quality fish oil supplement and following the recommended dosages, you can enjoy the numerous health benefits these supplements have to offer. Remember to consult with your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you’re taking medications or have underlying health conditions.