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Omega-3s have several health benefits. They play essential roles in the body, like decreasing inflammation, keeping our brain healthy and immune system functioning. And don’t forget about the role they play in heart health and fetal development. Unlike other nutrients, our bodies can’t naturally produce omega-3s.
If you’re an avid fish eater, you likely get enough omega-3s from your diet. But if you don’t eat fish, have a history of heart attacks or have elevated levels of triglycerides, a supplement can be a good addition to your daily routine. We pulled together a list of the top brands on the market so it’s easy to find the best omega-3 supplement for your needs.
Before taking an omega-3 supplement, talk to your doctor about the dosage, especially if you take an anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication.
How we chose the best omega-3 supplements
When choosing the best omega-3 supplements, we considered factors like cost, dosage, form and quality. We also researched each product’s customer reviews to compare the capsules’ texture, taste and size. We didn’t test these products in-house. We relied on third-party certifications to determine the quality and purity of the products.
Things to consider when buying the best omega-3 supplements
The market is flooded with brands offering omega-3 supplements. Knowing which is the best fit for you can be difficult. When shopping, keep these things in mind:
- Supplement type: Omega-3 supplements are known for large capsules. Maybe people in product reviews call them “horse pills.” Because of this, it’s more important than ever to consider the form of supplement that best fits your needs. There are mini capsules, gummies and liquid options if you have trouble swallowing large pills.
- Dosage: The products across the fish oil market vary by dosage. Determining how much you should take depends on your diet, needs and potential medication interactions.
- Fish oil source: Many brands source fish oil sustainably and responsibly. It’s possible to take an omega-3 supplement with no fish source; you just need to check the nutritional label, which states the source.
- Quality: The quality of a product can be determined by the ingredient label. Given the minimal regulations in the vitamin and supplement industry, it’s important to look for products with third-party testing that vouches for their quality and purity.
- Potential side effects: Taking omega-3 supplements does not by itself increase the risk of bleeding. However, if you are on blood thinners or other medications that affect your blood, your risk of bleeding could increase.
Best omega-3 supplement FAQ
What are the types of omega-3s?
As with any supplement, there are side effects to be aware of. Side effects associated with omega-3s are upset stomach, nausea and diarrhea. A fishy taste or breath is also commonly reported after taking fish oil supplements.
More severely, taking too many omega-3s in conjunction with certain medications can increase your risk of bleeding and decrease clotting. You must speak with your doctor before taking any fish oil supplements if you are taking any medication that affects your blood.
Is it good to take omega-3 supplements every day?
