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It may come as no surprise that fish oil is one of the top sources of omega-3 fatty acids. You consume it by eating fatty fish, such as salmon, cod, tuna, and sardines, or you can take it in supplement form. Omega-3s are essential fats that the body can’t produce on its own, so you need to get them in your diet.
The most sought-after types of omega-3s are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), as these are known to support a number of positive health benefits, including:
- Heart health: Reduced risk of heart attack and stroke, lower blood pressure
- Lower triglycerides: A fat in the blood that when too high can cause disease
- Increased HDL: The good cholesterol that helps transport cholesterol to the liver
- Reduced inflammation: Can reduce inflammation in the body associated with joint pain and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
- For athletes: Can aid recovery from exercise, decrease the risk of illness, and improve emotional state
The recommended daily dose of omega-3s is 250-500 milligrams of combined EPA and DHA. For healthy individuals, eating fatty fish such as salmon two times per week is enough to meet their omega-3 needs. Others who are either looking to maximize their omega-3 intake or have a health condition may need to supplement. While fish oil is the most common omega-3 supplement, there are others on the market that mainly include krill and algal oils, with the latter being a vegan-friendly option. Fish oil supplements come in various forms, including softgels, gummies, and liquids. With all of the options on the market, it can be difficult to decipher which is the best to help you meet your goals.
To aid your search for the right fish oil supplement, the ACTIVE Reviews Team took a deep dive into the available omega-3 options to find the best fish oil supplements in 12 categories.
Best Fish Oil Supplements - Our Top Picks
- Featured Pick: Metagenics OmegaGenics® EPA-DHA 1000
- Best Overall: Transparent Labs Krill Oil
- Best Fish Oil Supplement for Runners: Orgain Wild Omega-3
- Best Fish Oil Supplement for Triathletes: Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega
- Best Fish Oil Supplement for Cyclists: GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil
- Best Fish Oil Supplement for Swimmers: Nature's Lab Triple Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil
- Best Fish Oil Supplement for Cholesterol: Kaged Omega-3
- Best Tasting Fish Oil Supplement: Onnit Krill Oil
- Best Liquid Fish Oil Supplement: Carlson Labs Norwegian The Very Finest Fish Oil
- Best Gummy Fish Oil Supplement: Nature’s Nutrition Omega Fish Oil Gummies
- Best Vegan Omega-3 Supplement: Amandean Vegan Omega-3
- Best Budget Fish Oil Supplement: Bulk Supplements Fish Oil Softgels
- Best Fish Oil Supplement for Kids: Nordic Naturals Children's DHA
Why Trust Us?
The health and safety of ACTIVE's readers is of the utmost importance to us. To ensure your well-being when consuming dietary supplements, we prioritize products that are independently tested by a third party. Additionally, we consulted with ACTIVE's Advisory Board, which includes nutritionists, competitive athletes, coaches, and certified trainers, to make certain that the products we feature are of the highest standards. The ACTIVE Reviews Team is passionate about bringing you products that we trust and would personally use.
Featured Pick - OmegaGenics® EPA-DHA 1000
SPECS
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Flavor options (rating scale): 1
- Source/type: Fish oil softgels
- Serving size: 1 softgel
- Calories per serving: 15
- Fat per serving: 1.5g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
Ideal for those looking for a boost for their heart, muscles, and bones, OmegaGenics is a purified fish oil that packs a whopping 1,000 milligrams of omega-3s per serving specifically formulated to support cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and immune system health. This fish oil is sustainably sourced from cold-water fish and purified to remove any potential heavy metals or contaminants. Plus, each batch is third-party tested for over 450 contaminants to ensure safety for its users.
While many fish oils come with an off-putting fishy aftertaste, this one is processed using an advanced distillation method and contains a natural lemon flavor to reduce any unpleasant aromas.
What We Like
- Contains 1,000mg omega-3s per serving with 710mg EPA and 290mg DHA
- Made from sustainably caught fish
- Lemon flavor to mask any fishy aromas
- 1 softgel serving
- Non-GMO & gluten-free
What We Don't Like
- Capsules may be too large for some people to swallow
- Shipping is extra on orders under $75
Best Overall Omega-3 Supplement - Transparent Labs Krill Oil
SPECS
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Source/type: Krill oil softgels
- Serving size: 2 softgels
- Calories per serving: 10
- Fat per serving: 1g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
Fish oil remains the top omega-3 supplement on the market due to its wide availability and relatively low cost, but in recent years, other types of omega-3 supplements have emerged. Krill oil is sourced from small crustaceans called Antarctic krill. They are an excellent source of omega-3s, EPA, and DHA, which are associated with numerous positive health benefits. There is some evidence to suggest that krill oil is actually better absorbed in the body than fish oil due to its chemical structure. That makes it an excellent choice for active individuals looking to boost omega-3s. After reviewing the top products on the market, we named Transparent Labs Krill Oil the best overall omega-3 supplement.
With 1,000 milligrams of krill oil per two-softgel serving, Transparent Labs Krill Oil meets the daily omega-3 recommendation for most people. Each serving contains 120 milligrams of EPA, 55 milligrams of DHA, 400 milligrams of phospholipids, and 80 micrograms of astaxanthin. Phospholipids are a type of fat, also found in human cell walls, that are carriers for EPA and DHA omega-3s.
A unique plus for choosing krill over fish oil is the astaxanthin, a red carotenoid that can reduce oxidative stress in the body. That makes it ideal to aid recovery from even the most grueling strength workouts. Transparent Labs Krill Oil’s comprehensive omega-3 profile makes it the overall best choice for the majority of the population.
What We Like
- Contains omega-3 krill oil, which may provide better absorption than fish oil
- Provides the recommended doses of EPA and DHA
- Easier on the stomach than fish oil
- No fishy aftertaste
What We Don't Like
- Capsules may be too large for some people
- Only a 1-month supply per container
- Shipping is extra on orders under $99
BUY: Transparent Labs Krill Oil
Best Fish Oil Supplement for Runners - Orgain Wild Omega-3
SPECS
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Source/type: Fish oil softgels
- Serving size: 2 softgels
- Calories per serving: 20
- Fats per serving: 2g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
There's no doubt that running is a high-impact sport. While there may be no better feeling than the endorphin rush you get after a nice run, it does put a ton of stress on your joints. You can avoid some of the joint stress by doing cross-training—for example, on a rower—as well as making sure your recovery is on point. Another way to support your joint health is with diet and supplementation. Fish oil supplements, in particular, have been shown to decrease inflammation in the body, which can aid in relieving joint pain or soreness. After searching the marketplace for runner-friendly omega-3s, we named Orgain Wild Omega-3 the best fish oil supplement for runners due to its wild-caught sourcing and high EPA & DHA content.
Each 1,260-milligram, two-capsule serving provides a whopping 680 milligrams of EPA and 450 milligrams of DHA. To cut the potentially fishy aftertaste, Orgain adds natural lemon oil.
This product is sustainably sourced from wild-caught fish, meaning that it was done with environmental protection in mind. To ensure safety, Orgain Wild Omega-3 is third-party tested for toxins and heavy metals, making it safe even for runners who are pregnant. It’s an easy choice for all runners looking for a high-quality fish oil that delivers the recommended amounts of EPA and DHA.
What We Like
- Provides a high dose of EPA and DHA omega-3s
- Lemon flavored to prevent fishy aftertaste
- Affordable price point
- Wild caught and sustainably sourced
What We Don't Like
- Capsules may be too large for some users
- May still leave fishy aftertaste despite lemon flavoring
Best Fish Oil Supplement for Triathletes - Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega
SPECS
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Source/type: Fish oil softgels
- Serving size: 2 softgels
- Calories per serving: 20
- Fat per serving: 2g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
Whether you're competing at a high level or just recreationally, triathlon training means high-intensity running, cycling, and swimming, which creates a low level of inflammation in the body. That makes it imperative for you to recover after every training session. If you go into a workout without being fully recovered from your last one, you may risk getting injured or at least not performing at your highest level. One way to enhance your recovery is to eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet, including regular intake of omega-3s. These typically come from various types of seafood, but you can also supplement them by taking fish or krill oil. In fact, supplementing with omega-3s has been associated with a reduction in muscle soreness following exercise. When we looked for a fish oil supplement that would meet the needs of athletes performing high-intensity training, Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega came out at the top of our list as the best fish oil supplement for triathletes.
With 1,280 milligrams of omega-3s per two-softgel serving, including 650 milligrams of EPA and 450 milligrams of DHA, Ultimate Omega exceeds the daily recommendation. It is sustainably sourced from deep sea fish and purified to remove potential toxins or heavy metals, ensuring the highest quality. In addition, this product undergoes third-party testing to assure that it’s properly dosed and free of contaminants—a big plus for triathletes competing in drug-tested federations.
To avoid a fishy aftertaste, Nordic Naturals adds a natural lemon flavoring. For triathletes looking to enhance their recovery by taking a serious daily omega-3 supplement, Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega is an excellent choice.
What We Like
- Provides a high dose of omega-3 EPA and DHA per serving
- Lemon flavoring helps avoid a fishy aftertaste
- Sustainably sourced and third-party tested for purity
What We Don't Like
- Softgels may be difficult to swallow for some people
- Slightly more expensive than some other brands of fish oil
Read our full review of Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega.
BUY: Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega
Best Fish Oil Supplement for Cyclists - GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil
Specs
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Flavor Options (rating scale): 1
- Source/type: Fish oil softgels
- Serving size: 1 softgel
- Calories per serving: 15
- Fat per serving: 1.5g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
Cycling is a high-intensity exercise that can really get the heart pumping. Cyclists depend on impeccable heart health as it’s the muscle that pumps oxygenated blood throughout the body during training and competition. Therefore, it goes without saying that supporting heart health is a crucial part of performing at a high level in cycling. One of the effective ways to support a healthy heart is by consuming a nutritious diet that’s high in omega-3s. They can come from foods such as fatty fish, flax seeds, chia seeds, nuts, and soybeans, but they can also be supplemented. In addition, omega-3s have been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body associated with joint pain, something that some cyclists may experience. For cyclists in particular, we like the high EPA and DHA dosing in GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil and named it our best fish oil supplement for cyclists.
With each single-softgel dose providing a respectable 1,065 milligrams of omega-3s, including 734 milligrams of EPA and 256 milligrams of DHA, this supplement provides a perfect dose for optimizing cyclists’ heart health. It’s concentrated to have a higher EPA-to-DHA ratio than other, comparable brands.
To prevent fishy burps, these softgels are encased in a special enteric coating that prevents them from being digested until they pass through the stomach into the small intestine. That’s especially important for preventing nasty fish oil reflux during cycling training.
For cyclists in search of a reputable fish oil supplement that’s powerful enough to support their heart health and optimize their recovery, GNC’s Triple Strength Fish Oil is a great pick.
What We Like
- Provides science-backed 734 mg of EPA and 256 mg of DHA per serving
- Purified to remove potential toxins or heavy metals
- Enteric coated to avoid fish burps
- 3X strength
What We Don't Like
- Some users find the softgels are hard to swallow
- More expensive than some other brands
BUY: GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil
Best Fish Oil Supplement for Swimmers - Nature's Lab Triple Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil
SPECS
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Source/type: Fish oil softgel
- Serving size: 2 softgels
- Calories per serving: 18
- Fat per serving: 2g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
Swimming is a high-intensity sport that requires athletes to spend a lot of time in the pool. At the competitive level, it's not uncommon for them to practice for several hours per day. Because a pool environment is a perfect place for bacteria to grow, swimmers may be at an increased risk of ear or upper-respiratory tract infections and must be on top of their recovery to avoid getting sick. That includes diet and supplementation, and it’s a good idea to include fish oil for its ability to promote immunity and reduce overall inflammation. Which is the best fish oil supplement for swimmers? After researching the market for omega-3s, we named Nature’s Lab Triple Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil the go-to option for swimmers.
Providing 2,000 milligrams of fish oil with 650 milligrams of EPA and 650 milligrams of DHA, this product exceeds the daily recommended dose for maximizing health benefits. For convenience, each bottle contains 180 softgels, a three-month supply. Nature’s Lab Triple Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil is made from wild-caught fish with sustainability in mind. In addition, it’s manufactured in a GMP (good manufacturing practice) facility and is USP certified, ensuring the highest quality and safety. It’s also purified to remove any potential toxins or heavy metals, making it safe for everyone.
For swimmers looking to optimize their immunity and recovery, taking a fish oil supplement like Nature’s Lab Triple Strength Omega-3 is a smart choice.
What We Like
- Provides 650mg of both EPA and DHA per serving
- May help promote immunity for swimmers
- 90-day money-back guarantee
What We Don't Like
- Softgels may be hard to swallow for some
- Shipping is extra
BUY: Nature’s Lab Triple Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil
Best Fish Oil Supplement for Cholesterol - Kaged Omega-3
Specs
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Source/type: Fish oil softgels
- Serving size: 2 softgels
- Calories per serving: 30
- Fat per serving: 3g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
Cholesterol is a fatty, waxy substance found throughout the body. It’s necessary for countless functions, including cell formation and hormone production. In some people, cholesterol levels become too high, putting them at risk for heart disease and stroke. This can be caused by genetic or dietary factors. While some people will be able to reduce their cholesterol with diet and supplementation, others will require doctor-prescribed medications.
Many people supplement with fish oil to improve heart health. Fish oil has been shown to lower triglycerides (another blood fat) and blood pressure; however, the research is mixed on its cholesterol-lowering ability. That said, taking fish oil can increase your HDL, the good cholesterol in the body that removes other types of cholesterol from the blood. For those looking to improve their heart health by taking a fish oil supplement, our research found Kaged Omega-3 to be the best fish oil supplement for cholesterol due to its very high EPA and DHA dose.
Providing a whopping 3,000 milligrams of omega-3s, with 1,100 milligrams of EPA and 900 milligrams of DHA, this fish oil exceeds the American Heart Association’s recommendation, which is 1 gram of combined EPA and DHA daily. While these softgels are on the larger side, they meet all of your daily omega-3 needs for heart health and then some. Sourced from wild-caught fish and highly purified, this supplement is optimized for high absorbability. In addition, the softgels are advertised as fish-burp-free.
Third-party testing by Informed-Sport ensures that the supplement is free of contaminants and banned substances. If you don't eat much fish but would still like to get the cholesterol-related benefits of omega-3s, Kaged Omega-3 is a wise choice.
What We Like
- Provides ultra-high dose of DHA and EPA, ideal for improving heart health
- Highly purified form of fish oil eliminates fishy aftertaste
- Third-party certified by Informed-Sport
What We Don't Like
- Large softgel size may be cumbersome for some people to get down
- One of the more expensive options we’ve reviewed
Best Tasting Omega-3 Supplement - Onnit Krill Oil
SPECS
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Source/type: Krill oil softgel
- Serving size: 2 softgels
- Calories per serving: 10
- Fat per serving: 1g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
There's no argument that omega-3 supplements, especially fish oil, generally don’t taste that great. In many cases, they can repeat on you, causing some unpleasant fish burps. While this can largely be avoided by taking them with food, some people don’t want to take the chance. Thankfully, there are other options on the market that provide the benefits of taking omega-3s without the fishy aftertaste. One such option is krill oil, which is made from a type of crustacean and is purported to be easier on the stomach. Of the brands on the market, we found Onnit’s Krill Oil to be the best-tasting omega-3 supplement.
Each two-softgel serving provides a modest 130 milligrams of EPA and 60 milligrams of DHA. While the dose is not as great as some other omega-3 supplements, studies show that krill oil may be better absorbed than fish oil, so it requires a slightly lower dose. As an added plus, Onnit Krill Oil provides 200 micrograms of astaxanthin, a red carotenoid found in krill that can reduce oxidative stress in the body. For people looking for an omega-3 supplement without the fishy aftertaste, an alternative product like Onnit’s Krill Oil is an ideal choice.
What We Like
- Krill oil lacks fishy aftertaste and promotes better absorption
- More sustainable than fish oil
- Contains astaxanthin carotenoid, which can lower oxidative stress in the body
What We Don't Like
- EPA and DHA dose is lower than comparable fish oil supplements
- Shipping is extra under $150
Best Liquid Fish Oil Supplement - Carlson Labs Norwegian The Very Finest Fish Oil
SPECS
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Source/type: Liquid fish oil
- Serving size: 1 tsp (5 ml)
- Calories per serving: 40
- Fat per serving: 4.5g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
Traditionally, fish oils come in softgel form for convenience and ease of processing. Not everyone is able to slug down a seemingly gigantic fish oil softgel, however. Fortunately, for those who prefer to avoid the softgels, fish oil is produced in a few other forms, the liquid being one of them. While it may sound nasty to swallow liquid fish oil, most companies use flavoring to mask the taste. If you want to ditch fish oil softgels and try the liquid form, Carlson Labs Norwegian The Very Finest Fish Oil is your best liquid fish oil choice.
This supplement is no slouch in the dosing department, with each one-teaspoon serving providing 1,600 milligrams of omega-3s, including 800 milligrams of EPA and 500 milligrams of DHA. The directions are to take the supplement with meals for the best absorption and refrigerate the bottle after opening. This fish oil is tested to make sure it’s free of heavy metals and other contaminants. It’s lemon-flavored, and Carson Labs claims there is absolutely no fishy aftertaste. They even recommend mixing it in with salad dressing as a method of consumption.
If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional horse pill fish oil softgels, a liquid version such as Carlson Labs Norwegian The Very Finest Fish Oil is the finest choice.
What We Like
- Provides as much omega-3s as softgel form
- No fishy aftertaste
- Affordable price point
What We Don't Like
- Needs to be refrigerated
- Oil may leave odd texture in mouth
BUY: Carlson Labs Norwegian The Very Finest Fish Oil
Best Fish Oil Gummies - Nature's Nutrition Fish Oil Gummies
SPECS
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Source/type: Gummy fish oil
- Serving size: 2 gummies
- Calories per serving: 16
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
Most often, fish oil is found in a softgel form that may be difficult for some people to take, especially kids. While liquid forms are available, they still may be tough for some people to stomach. Fish oil gummies, in various flavors, offer a more enjoyable alternative. With gummies, even the pickiest eaters get in their daily dose of omega-3s and like it. With its unique formula and kid-friendly form, Nature’s Nutrition Fish Oil Gummies gets our vote as the best fish oil gummies around.
Formulated with a unique fish oil powder and algal oil, each two-gummy serving provides 13.2 milligrams of DHA and 2.8 milligrams of EPA. While the dose is on the lower side compared to some traditional fish oil supplements, these gummies are an easy option for boosting the omega-3s in your diet. The lower omega-3 dose makes them a fine option for kids. Plus, they are third-party tested to ensure purity and are free from contaminants or heavy metals.
Nature’s Nutrition Fish Oil Gummies are also an excellent option for athletes wanting to supplement with omega-3s on the go.
If you are looking for an alternative to traditional fish oil softgels, put Nature’s Nutrition Fish Oil Gummies on your list.
What We Like
- Convenient alternative to softgels and other forms of omega-3s
- Tasty orange-flavored gummy avoids the fishy taste
- Third-party tested to ensure purity and free of heavy metals
What We Don't Like
- Low dose of omega-3s compared to other fish oil options
- Contains added sugars for flavoring
BUY: Nature's Nutrition Omega Fish Oil Gummies
Best Vegan Omega-3 Supplement - Amandean Vegan Omega-3
SPECS
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Source/type: Algal oil
- Serving size: 2 caps
- Calories per serving: 8
- Fat per serving: 1g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
As fish oil supplements are technically sourced from animals, they are inherently not suitable for vegans. This creates a bit of a challenge for vegans who are looking to supplement with omega-3s. While there are many plant sources of omega-3s, such as flaxseed, chia seeds, and nuts, they tend not to be as bioavailable as animal sources. In response to the demand for vegan-friendly alternatives, omega-3 supplements sourced from algae, a type of aquatic plant that is high in omega-3s, are now available. Among the vegan omega-3 supplements on the market, we found Amandean Vegan Omega-3 to be ahead of the pack.
With every two-capsule serving providing 1,000 milligrams of algal oil—300 milligrams of DHA and 150 milligrams of EPA—this vegan omega-3 alternative is on par with most fish oils. Many people find algal oil to be much lighter on the stomach, and as it doesn’t contain fish, there are no fishy burps. In addition, Amandean Vegan Omega-3 is processed in a GMP (good manufacturing practice) facility to ensure the highest quality.
A supplement such as Amandean Vegan Omega-3 is great for vegan athletes looking to improve their recovery and support their heart and joint health.
What We Like
- Provides similar EPA and DHA to fish oil without fishy aftertaste
- Vegan-friendly
- Produced in a GMP facility
- Carrageenan-free
What We Don't Like
- Dose may be too low for some of the population
- Some users still report a slight fishy aftertaste
Best Budget Fish Oil Supplement - Bulk Supplements Fish Oil Softgels
SPECS
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Flavor options (rating scale): 1
- Source/type: Fish oil softgels
- Serving size: 1 softgel
- Calories per serving: 10
- Fat per serving: 1g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
With all the dietary supplements available to you, if you take only a few, the cost can add up over time. Some people say you can’t put a price on your health, while others have a budget they must stick to. Not everyone can afford to shell out 100s of dollars on fish oil supplements. Fortunately, many brands cater to the more budget-minded, producing comparable supplements for a fraction of the cost. When assessing the top fish oil products, we named Bulk Supplement Fish Oil Softgels the best budget fish oil supplement.
This no-frills fish oil provides 300 milligrams of combined EPA and DHA per one-gram softgel, enough to meet the daily recommendation for omega-3s. Those who want a higher omega-3 dose can simply take more softgels to meet their needs. The cost breaks down to about $0.10 per softgel, so if you buy the 100-count pouch, even those on the tightest budget can likely justify the cost. Third-party tested and manufactured in a GMP (good manufacturing practice) facility, this supplement is safe for all populations.
For athletes and recreational gym goers looking to get their daily dose of omega-3s without breaking the budget, Bulk Supplement’s Fish Oil Softgels are our top choice.
What We Like
- Provides an extremely affordable alternative to more expensive fish oils
- Third-party tested and manufactured in GMP-compliant facility
- Ships quickly
- Highly rated
What We Don't Like
- Packaging may be cumbersome for some users
- Label does not specify individual amounts of EPA and DHA
- Can cause fishy aftertaste, especially when taken separate from a meal
BUY: Bulk Supplements Fish Oil Softgels
Best Fish Oil Supplement for Kids - Nordic Naturals Children's DHA
SPECS
- Price (scale of $-$$$): $
- Source/type: Chewable fish oil softgel
- Serving size: 4 softgels
- Calories per serving: 10
- Fat per serving: 1g
- Artificial sweeteners: None noted
We all know that kids can be fussy when it comes to taking medications and supplements. Who can blame them as many taste downright nasty? Fish oil is no different, with many brands leaving an off-putting aftertaste in your mouth. Even so, omega-3 supplementation has been associated with some potential benefits in children, such as enhancing brain health, promoting better sleep, and improving symptoms in kids with ADHD and asthma. So, despite the taste, parents may be interested in having their kids take omega-3s. Many companies make fish oil supplements with improved palatability designed just for kids. After searching the market, we determined that Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA is the best fish oil supplement for kids.
This product comes in a unique strawberry-flavored chewable softgel that provides 80 milligrams of EPA and 120 milligrams of DHA per four-softgel serving, more than enough to meet the needs of most kids. To ensure safety and purity for children, it’s third-party tested. It’s also sustainably sourced from cod liver oil. As children grow older, this company also offers a “Junior” version that provides a bit more omega-3s per serving.
For parents looking for a daily fish oil supplement that is suitable for kids, Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA is a safe choice.
What We Like
- Small chewable flavored softgels suitable for kids
- Third-party tested for purity and safety
- Available in a number of container sizes
What We Don't Like
- Serving size may be too much to handle for some kids
- Some parents reports quality control concerns
BUY: Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA
Benefits of Fish Oil Supplements
Supplementing with an omega-3 product such as fish oil offers a number of potential health benefits. The most notable ones include:
- Reduced risk of heart attack and stroke, as well as lower blood pressure
- Helps prevent blood clots as omega-3s prevent platelets from sticking together
- Improved cognitive health and prevention of brain disease
- Can lower triglycerides, a fat in the blood that when too high can cause disease
- Can raise HDL, the good cholesterol, which helps transport cholesterol to the liver
- Can reduce inflammation in the body associated with joint pain and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
- In athletes, improved recovery from exercise, decreased risk of illness, and improved emotional state
What to Consider When Shopping for Fish Oil Supplements?
The most important things to consider when choosing a fish oil supplement are the serving size, dose, form, flavoring, and purity. For instance, if you know that you don’t do great with swallowing large pills, fish oil softgels are likely not a good option for you. Rather, you may want to try a flavored liquid or gummy. If you are concerned about sustainability, look on the label to make sure that the fish oil is sustainably sourced. Also, read the label to make sure the supplement has been purified to remove heavy metals or toxins. Considering these factors will enable you to select the option that best suits you.
Who Should Take Fish Oil Supplements?
Many people can benefit from supplementing with omega-3s such as fish oil, especially those who don’t eat fish, vegans, athletes, and people who suffer from joint or heart disease. These populations are at a high risk of not getting enough omega-3s. Most people can benefit from taking fish oil, and considering that there really aren’t many downsides, it's a good investment in your health.
What to Consider When Shopping for Fish Oil Supplements
There are a number of factors to keep in mind when shopping for fish oil or omega-3 supplements to ensure that you select the right product for your needs and goals.
Source
While fish oil makes up the majority of omega-3 supplements on the market, there are a couple of other sources. These are the major sources of supplemental omega-3s:
- Fish oil: The most common source of omega-3s; it’s usually sourced from sardines, mackerel, anchovy, smelt, tuna, salmon, or cod and purified to remove toxins or heavy metals.
- Krill oil: An increasingly common form of omega-3s that is sourced from small crustaceans called Antarctic krill. They contain a different type of fat carrier called phospholipids, which some research says may make krill oil more easily absorbed in the body and lighter on the stomach.
- Algal oil: Because fish oil and krill oil are not vegan, algal oil fills the gap, enabling vegans to supplement with omega-3s. This oil is sourced from marine algae, an excellent source of omega-3s.
Dose
Omega-3 supplements vary greatly in their doses. Your body size and goals will determine your individual dosing needs. The research recommends a dosing range of 250-500 milligrams of combined EPA and DHA for most people. For people with heart disease, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends 1,000 milligrams of omega-3s per day. For athletes looking to optimize their recovery and heart health, around 500 milligrams of combined EPA and DHA a day is likely sufficient.
Purity
While most fish oils are purified to remove any potential toxins or heavy metals, it’s always important to read the label carefully to ensure that the supplement is purified. Some companies go a step further and have their products third-party tested by an outside lab to verify their purity and safety. If you have the opportunity, always buy a product that is third-party tested. This is especially important for athletes who are drug tested.
Price
Fish oils vary greatly in cost depending on the form they come in, where the fish is sourced, the level of purity, and any added active ingredients. When looking to purchase fish oil, consider your budget and how much you are willing to spend per serving. Most cost $0.50-$1.00 per serving. If you are planning on taking fish oil for an extended period of time, the cost will add up. This is certainly a factor to keep in mind, especially when you’re on a budget.
Flavor and Form
Omega-3 supplements come in a variety of forms, from softgels to gummies and even liquids. Some forms are flavored whereas others are unflavored. Although most fish oil softgels are unflavored, some contain mild flavoring to mask the fishy taste. Others use a special enteric coating to prevent the supplement from digesting until it is in your small intestine, eliminating fishy burps. To further reduce any potential fishy aftertaste, many brands recommend taking fish oil with a meal and not taking it before working out. Liquid forms often have a lemon flavor to cover the fishy taste.
Keep in mind that the form your supplement comes in and how it’s flavored will greatly impact how well you can tolerate it in the long term. It's important to take it consistently to reap the benefits of the supplement. Consider using a pill organizer to keep yourself consistent.
Our Rating Scale
Price/Affordability:
Prices depend on a number of factors and tend to fluctuate over time, so we’ve kept our affordability rating scale simple so you can easily see how products compare.
$ = under $1 per serving
$$ = $1-2 per serving
$$$ = over $2 per serving
FAQs About Fish Oil Supplements
What happens if you take fish oil every day?
Most fish oil supplements are designed to be taken daily and thus are considered safe for daily use. Regular use has not been linked with any negative health outcomes.
What age can take fish oil?
Fish oil supplementation is suitable for most ages, including kids older than three. For kids under the age of three, you'll want to check with your pediatrician to make sure it’s safe. The most important factor for all ages is appropriate dosing. Children will require much less omega-3s than adults. Therefore, it's best to purchase a fish oil specifically made with a lower dose for kids. Other sensitive populations include people taking blood thinners, as fish oil has a slight blood-thinning effect. In any case, it's important to check with your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement such as fish oil.
Is fish oil worth taking?
Fish oil is a very affordable way to get in your daily dose of omega-3s, so most people will find that it’s worth taking. If you already eat a lot of fish and other types of seafood, you may not need to supplement with omega-3s. Considering that fish oil is fairly cheap and its use doesn’t have many downsides, most people will find that supplementing with it is a good investment.
Can I take fish oil with multivitamins?
There is no contraindication between fish oil and multivitamins, so taking them together should be OK in most cases. Be aware that some multivitamins also contain omega-3s. Therefore, check your multivitamin label to make sure you are not already getting enough. As always, you may want to consult your doctor, especially if you have a pre-existing condition.
Protein | Pre-Workouts | Creatine | Multivitamins | Vitamin B12 | Collagen | Testosterone Boosters | Greens Powder | Fish Oil | BCAAs
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
About the Author
Daniel Preiato is a registered dietitian who specializes in sports nutrition and nutrition education. He is also a certified strength and conditioning specialist, and an avid strength athlete. He uses his background in clinical nutrition to dissect research and help individuals meet their health and fitness goals.
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