Health
Doctor Reveals Must-Have Features for Top-Notch Fish Oil Supplements
As the popularity of fish oil supplements continues to surge, so does the lingering question: How do you discern a high-quality supplement from the rest? Every year, Americans spend over a billion dollars on fish oil products, making it a staple in medicine cabinets across the country. Fish oil, derived from oily fish like tuna, salmon, and mackerel, provides a valuable source of omega-3s, vitamins A and D. Yet, with an overwhelming number of brands, choosing a quality supplement can be tricky. Luckily, naturopathic doctor Janine Bowring shares seven key things to look for in a “good quality” fish oil supplement in her recent TikTok video.
1. Look for the GMP Logo
One of the first things you want to check is the official “GMP” logo on the label.
“That means good manufacturing practices. It’s coming from a good, reputable company,” Bowring explains.
The U. S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) notes that these GMP regulations assure a product is safe and contains the ingredients and potency it claims to have.
2. Higher Volumes of DHA
In terms of omega-3 fatty acids, higher amounts of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are your golden ticket.
“You want a higher DHA to feed your brain and your eyes,” Bowring advises.
3. Avoid Fishy Taste or Smell
If your supplement capsule has a “fishy taste or smell,” give it a pass.
This could indicate that the supplement has gone “rancid.” Additionally, Bowring emphasizes that it has to “taste good because you gotta take it every day.”
4. Molecular Distillation
Molecular distillation is another feature of a high-quality fish oil supplement.
This process “removes any impurities” such as mercury, dioxins, and polychlorinated biphenyl concentrations (PCB).
5. An IFOS Rating of Five
Your supplement should have a five-star rating according to the International Fish Oil Standard (IFOS) guidelines.
This signifies that it’s “sustainable” and “has gone through its due diligence in terms of processing and manufacturing,” according to Bowring. The IFOS stamp of approval also means the product has been tested for active ingredients, contaminants, and stability.
6. No Artificial Fillers or Flow Agents
A high-quality supplement will not contain any “add fillers or flow agents,” warns Bowring, and specifically calls out microcrystalline cellulose and magnesium stearate as examples.
Navigating the sea of fish oil brands can seem overwhelming, but using Dr. Bowring’s seven key elements as a guide can help simplify the process. As you journey towards improved eye and bone health, mental wellness, and healthier skin, remember that a quality supplement is worth the investment. Keep an eye out for that GMP logo, a higher volume of DHA, no fishy odors or tastes, molecular distillation, an IFOS rating of five, and no artificial fillers. Happy sailing towards better health!
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