How to Choose Fish Oil Supplements

Fish oil supplements come from the oils of cold water fish such as cod, tuna, sardines, mackerel and salmon. The active ingredients in these dietary supplements are omega 3 fatty acids, which include eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Before you choose a supplement, it is a good idea to know what to look for.

Instructions

• 1

  Read the label of fish oil supplements carefully before you choose. If the label says, "fish oil," or "marine lipids," but does not list what fish the oils are derived from, beware. It is best to choose a supplement which is species specific, as anchovies, salmon and sardines are the best sources for omega 3.

• 2

  Make sure that the manufacturer of the supplement uses fish which have been screened for human consumption, as that is the only way to ensure the oil are free of toxins. If the bottle is not specific about screening, do not hesitate to call the contact number found on the bottle.

• 3

  Choose fish oil supplements that contain both EPA and DHA, as the majority of medical research about the benefits of fish oil are based on both types of fatty acids. If the manufacturer does not specify the types of fatty acids found in the product, choose another product.

• 4

  Be aware that cod liver oil is very high in vitamin A and should only be used daily if you have a vitamin A deficiency. Excess intake of vitamin A can cause dry skin, itchiness, headaches and even liver damage.