Fish oil supplements are very popular in the market because of its omega-3 fatty acid content.
Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids that have a wide range of benefits.
They improve your skin health, decrease the risk of heart disease, reduce joint pain and discomfort, help clear mental fog, improve cognitive function, and strengthen immunity (1), (2). Omega-3s also reduce triglyceride levels in the blood.
Omega-3s are mainly of three types: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) (3).
The former two are primarily found in fish oil while the latter is found in plant foods. However, ALA has to be converted into EPA and DHA before the body can use it.
Therefore, people who can’t consume fish regularly can greatly benefit from taking fish oil supplements.
Check out our list of the best 6 fish oil supplements of 2020 from which you can take your own pick.
Our Best Picks:
1. Best Tasting Fish Oil Supplement – LiveWell Labs OmegaWell™ Fish Oil: Heart, Brain, and Joint Support
2. Best Sugar-free Veggie Capsule Fish Oil Supplement – Nuzena Optima Omega-3+
3. Best Keto-friendly Fish Oil Supplement – Essential elements® Omega-3 Fish Oil™
4. Best Burpless Fish Oil Supplement – Arazo Nutrition-Omega 3 Fish Oil
5. Best Sustainably sourced Fish Oil Supplement – Viva Naturals Triple-Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil
6. The Best Quality Fish Oil Liquid Supplement – Carlson Cod Liver Oil
1. Best Tasting Fish Oil Supplement: LiveWell Labs OmegaWell™ Fish Oil: Heart, Brain, and Joint Support
For those who can’t take the smell of fish and yet would like to support their health with the goodness of fish oil, supplements that come mildly flavored and no fishy aftertaste is the best. They are odorless and are great for everyone.
About LiveWell Labs OmegaWell™
LiveWell Labs OmegaWell™ is manufactured in the USA and made of domestic and imported ingredients. They employ stringent quality control standards set by cGMP.
Made from natural ingredients and totally devoid of harmful fillers or additives, Livewell Labs OmegaWell™ contains both the omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, which help scavenge the free radicals and reduce oxidative damage.
It supports a healthy heart and brain. In addition to that, it helps reduce joint inflammation thereby reducing joint discomfort.
OmegaWell™ fish oil is 3rd party tested, a non-GMO product that is soy-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free. It doesn’t contain any preservatives and like all their products, are totally focused on creating natural products that have the utmost potential to revolutionize your health.
The product has a 365-day money-back guarantee in case you do not like it. This just shows how confident the manufacturers are of their products.
What it Contains:
The serving size of 2 softgel has low calories and no saturated fat. With the goodness of vitamin E, they mainly have:
- Fish oil- 2000mg
- EPA-800mg
- DHA-600mg
The product comes with 60 softgels that are enteric-coated with efficient delivery and suffices for a month.
The manufacturers recommend having 1 softgel twice daily with food. Its natural lemon flavor and easy to swallow characteristic don’t leave any fish aftertaste which is a relief for most who do not agree with the smell.
The Pros:
- 800 mg EPA and 600 mg DHA
- Non-GMO
- 3rd Party Tested
- Natural Lemon Flavor
Summary: LiveWell Labs OmegaWell Fish Oil supplement is a premium omega-3 formula with EPA and DHA that help keep your heart and brain healthy and support your joint. It is gluten-free, non-GMO, and has a natural lemon flavor that makes it easy to take.
2. Best Sugar-free Veggie Capsule Fish Oil Supplement: Nuzena Optima Omega-3+
Often people who have high triglyceride levels have insulin resistance or high blood sugar. A fish oil supplement that reduces the former and simultaneously is sugar-free can be a great way of supporting good health.
About Nuzena Optima Omega-3+
Specially designed by health professionals, Nuzena Optima Omega 3+ is the king of all fish oil formulas. It is made for optimal omega-3 support for your brain and physical health.
Manufactured in an FDA registered facility in the United States, made with natural and clinically proven ingredients, this product is gluten-free and contains only pure and efficient extracts.
This non-GMO product is GMP certified. These veggie capsules have a full spectrum of omega-3 with DHA, EPA, and fish oil.
It’s simple and easy return policy makes it a great buy as you always have the option to return it in case the product doesn’t suit you.
What it Contains:
1 serving (1 softgel) mainly consists of:
- Fish Oil – 1200 mg
- Omega-3 – 720 mg
- EPA – 432 mg
- DHA – 288 mg
The product comes with 60 softgels and as a dietary supplement can be taken 2-3 times daily with meals. According to your consumption, it can suffice you for 20-30 days.
The full spectrum Omega-3 Complex Formula helps regulate cholesterol and supports heart health. Its antioxidant property improves joint health and mobility.
The Pros:
- FDA approved
- GMP Certified
- 100% Sugar-Free
- Gluten-Free
- 100% Satisfied Guaranteed
Summary: Nuzena Optima Omega-3+ is a supplement that is 100% natural, non-GMO, gluten-free, and mostly sugar-free that makes it a great product for people who have sugar problems. Made in an FDA registered facility, these softgels can be a great addition to your diet.
3. Best Keto-friendly Fish Oil Supplement: Essential elements® Omega-3 Fish Oil™
These days, the popularity of ketogenic diets are on the rise amongst common people as they struggle to increase their fat burning via diets that are very low in carbohydrates. A ketone-friendly fish oil supplement can not only ensure greater health, but it’s very low calorie will not take you out of ketosis.
About Essential elements® Omega-3 Fish Oil™
Essential elements® Omega-3 Fish Oil™ is made of high-quality fish oil produced primarily from sustainably sourced anchovies. The product offers 1400mg of EPA and DHA in every serving, making this fish oil supplement a great option to add heart-healthy omega-3s to your diet.
Essential elements® Omega-3 Fish Oil™ is made in the United States, has been certified as preservative-free and manufactured in a GMP certified facility.
This non-GMO product is sugar-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and shellfish-free, making it the best in the market. Rendering its low allergen contain, it can easily be taken by the vast majority of people.
This is not all! People who are into a ketogenic diet and need the nutritional supplement without breaking their ketosis can take this product without hesitation.
What it Contains:
The serving size of 2 softgels consists of:
- Total omega-3 fatty acids – 1500mg
- EPA – 800mg
- DHA – 600mg
The manufacturers recommend taking one softgel twice daily along with your meals. With 60 softgels, this product can easily give you one month’s supply.
The easy swallow softgels have a gentle lemon flavor and absolutely no fishy aftertaste as found in most fish oil supplements. This renders this product a great choice for vegetarians and vegans as well.
With the goodness of naturally made tocopherol which is a very important fat-soluble vitamin that is not found in many food sources, Essential elements® Omega-3 Fish Oil™, gives you only the best.
The Pros:
- Non-GMO
- Keto-friendly
- 1400 mg of EPA and DHA
- No Fishy aftertaste
- Made in the USA
Summary: Essential elements® Omega-3 Fish Oil™ is keto-friendly and has 1400 mg of combined EPA and DHA. Combined with the goodness of tocopherol, it is free of most allergens such as soy, dairy, and shellfish. Made in the USA, this product is non-GMO and manufactured in a GMP-Certified facility.
4. Best Burpless Fish Oil Supplement: Arazo Nutrition Omega – 3 Fish Oil
The most common problem with fish oil supplements is fishy aftertaste or unwanted fishy burps. Not only does it give an unpleasant taste in the mouth but also makes it difficult to consume for people who do not agree with the smell.
About Arazo Nutrition Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement
Arazo Nutrition Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement has been derived from 100% wild ocean catch from the deep sea sourced, omega-rich fish.
With 1200 mg of EPA and 900 mg of DHA and 2250mg of omega-3 fatty acids packed in one single serving, this Triple Strength Omega-3 supplement is a great option for most.
Made in a GMP Certified Facility in America and having gone through heavy metal testing for purity, this product uses a superior patented oil extraction method that ensures protection from contaminants and oxidation.
This product is third-party tested, has the highest EPA and DHA levels than other brands, and triple certified by Marine Trust, Friend of the Seas, and Dolphin Safe.
What it Contains:
Each serving size contains 3 softgels. It includes:
- Omega -3 fatty acids – 2250 mg
- EPA – 1200mg
- DHA – 900mg
One container contains 120 softgels that can easily go on for 40 days. This fish oil supplement is burpless, odorless, and has a natural lemon flavor. As a dietary supplement, manufacturers recommend taking three softgels together, once daily with a meal.
The Pros:
- Great taste and burpless
- Triple Strength High Purity
- High EPA and DHA
- 100% Wild Ocean Catch
- Third-party tested
Summary: Arazo Nutrition Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplements are burpless, have a high strength of EPA and DHA, the third party tested. Certified by Marine Trust, Friend of Seas, and Dolphin Safe, this is one of the best in the market.
5. Best Sustainably sourced Fish Oil Supplement: Viva Naturals Triple-Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil
When you choose from a sustainably sourced fish oil, it doesn’t only confirm the long-term well-being of the ocean animals but also helps protect the vitality of the species that is harvested.
About VivaNaturals Triple-Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil
VivaNaturals Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement is concentrated without any use of chemicals or heat which makes these softgels of very high strength. Each serving gives you triple the strength of most other fish oil supplements in the market.
This fish oil supplement is light, ultra-clean, thoroughly purified to remove heavy metals, PCBs, and all other toxins. This superior quality fish oil has no fishy aftertaste and absolutely burpless.
The purity of this product is IFOS Certified which proves the point more than anything that this supplement is among the purest and best fish oil supplements. What more! Each batch of this product is certified for purity by the International Fish Oil Standards Program and very highly ranked by Labdoor for premium quality.
What it Contains:
Each serving size is 2 softgels and includes:
- Total Fish Oil – 2200 mg
- Total Omega-3 Fatty Acids – 2000 mg
- EPA – 1400 mg
- DHA – 480 mg
As there are 180 softgels per container, it can easily provide you with a supply of 90 days or three months.
These softgels are easy to swallow, have no fishy aftertaste or smell, and produce absolutely no fish burps. With 90% omega-3 concentration, this triple strength fish oil softgels have triglyceride form which gives them superior absorption.
The Pros:
- Triple Strength
- Third-Party Certified
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO
- Superior Triglyceride Form
Summary: VivaNaturals Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement is made from the anchovy, sardine, and mackerel contains very high EPA and DHA. The product is non-GMO, 3rd party tested and manufactured in the USA.
6. Best Quality Fish Oil Liquid Supplement: Carlson Cod Liver Oil
If you are one of the people who have trouble swallowing pills and not a big fan of softgels, Carlson Cod Liver Oil is the one for you. The product is the recipient of numerous awards for its high-quality taste. This is mostly true for kids, where taking a spoonful of liquid is easier than swallowing gels or capsules.
About Carlson Cod Liver Oil
Carlson Cod Liver Oil is made from the finest quality, wild-caught Norwegian Arctic Cod, a deep cold-water fish caught off the coast of Norway using a traditional sustainable method. Carlson beautifully manages the quality and guarantees freshness, potency, and purity.
The product is IFOS and IGEN non-GMO certified and is one of the finest. Recipient of the iTQi superior taste award, this is gluten-free and doesn’t have any artificial preservatives.
It contains the finest raw ingredients, the result of the latest scientific research, and uses the strictest manufacturing techniques, its authenticity is unparalleled.
What makes it better is the vitamin A and vitamin D3 that is combined in this product. The slight lemony taste and no after taste of this liquid makes it palatable and easy to swallow.
What it Contains:
The serving size is 1 teaspoon (5 ml) and the serving per container is 50.
Each teaspoon of this potent liquid consists of:
- Omega-3s – 1600 milligrams
- EPA – 800 milligrams
- DHA – 500 milligrams
- Vitamin A – 255 mcg
- Vitamin D – 10 mcg
- Vitamin E – 6.7 mg
Carlson Labs recommends taking one teaspoon of this liquid fish oil once or twice daily at mealtime. It is mostly told to be taken with a high-fat meal for better absorption.
Its natural lemon flavor makes the liquid taste the best.
The Pros:
- Superior taste
- Purity guaranteed
- With the goodness of Vitamin A and D
- IFOS and IGEN non-GMO certified
Summary: Carlson Cod Liver Oil is the best liquid fish oil in the market and made from wild-caught Norwegian Arctic Cod. It contains the goodness of vitamin A, E, and D3, along with omega-3s. Recipient of Superior Taste award and IGEN Non-GMO tested, this liquid is authentic and potent.
Dosage for Fish Oil Supplements
Fish oil is an excellent source of the main omega-3s: EPA and DHA which supports brain development and ensures good heart health (4). The typical Western diet is often low in omega-3s, therefore taking fish oil supplements can go a long way to boost your nutritional health.
The reference daily intake (RDI) of EPA and DHA, combined is 250-500 mg. When you are buying your fish oil supplement, make sure you read the labels and determine how much is being provided. Normally a 1000 mg of fish oil provides 300 mg of EPA and DHA.
Up to 3000 mg of fish oil is considered safe for adults and does not cause any side effects.
However, recommendations for EPA and DHA vary according to age and needs. Below mentioned are a few examples:
- Omega-3 intake for infants up to the age of 1 year is 500 mg
- For a 4-year-old, combined EPA and DHA is around 100 mg.
- For an 8-year-old, the need is 200 mg.
- For people with coronary heart disease, 1000 mg of total EPA and DHA per day is recommended
- For pregnant women, WHO recommends 300 mg of combined EPA and DHA per day, where DHA should be at least 200 mg.
Some fish oil also contains certain fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin A and D which is essential for bone health, strengthens immunity, and helps improve eyesight.
Summary: Fish oil supplements are highly beneficial for health and the RDI is usually 250-500mg of combined EPA and DHA. However, different age groups and varied medical conditions can change the dosage need. Studies have confirmed that up to 3000 mg of EPA and DHA is considered safe.
Precautions and Side effects of Fish Oil Supplements
When taken by mouth within the recommended dosage, fish oil is usually considered safe. However, in case you exceed 3g (3000mg), it can increase the risk of reduced blood clotting that may result in excessive bleeding (5).
Apart from that, a high dosage of fish oil can lead to
- Belching
- Bad breath
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Nosebleeds
- Loose stools
Fish oil supplements are considered to be safe when taken by mouth. However, if consumed in very high doses or for people who are allergic to seafood, fish oil may cause some unwanted reactions.
Fish oil supplements can also interact with other medications such as birth control pills, anti-hypertensive drugs, and some medicines used for weight loss such as orlistat (Xenical, Alli). It can also interact with anticoagulants and may increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
Summary: Fish oil supplements within the recommended limit are safe. However, if you exceed that amount you may face certain side effects such as belching, loose stools, and heartburn. It can also interact with other medications therefore, it is best to consult your physician before taking one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it Safe to Take Fish Oil for the Long Term?
Long term fish oil consumption is absolutely safe and shouldn’t be a matter of concern as long as you do not exceed your daily dose or do not consume very high amounts. Make sure the product is from a popular brand and is not contaminated by mercury or other heavy metals.
Does Fish Oil Cause Weight Gain?
Fish oil supplements do not cause weight gain. On the contrary, it is believed to aid in weight loss. The omega-3s in fish oil can support you to lose inches and help you shed body fat (6).
Does Fish Oil Help Reduce your Triglyceride Levels?
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids which can effectively reduce plasma triglyceride levels. It also increases fatty acid uptake and beta-oxidation in adipose, heart, and skeletal muscles (7).
Can Fish Oil Reduce Belly Fat?
Studies have successfully confirmed that fish oil consumption in adults and children, especially the ones who suffer from fatty liver disease can reduce liver and abdominal fat significantly (8).
However, some states that fish oil alone can’t reduce belly fat. When combined with exercise, it can help support a healthy metabolism resulting in fat loss.
When is The Right Time to Take Fish Oil: Morning or Night?
Fish oil can be taken at any time of the day. However, studies have stated that taking them with meals helps them absorb better in the body especially a high-fat meal.
Research has also observed that the potential benefits of fish oil supplements are not immediate but long term, therefore timing is of no particular importance.
However, if you can split your servings into two smaller doses, that is in the morning and in the night, it can help you with gastrointestinal problems such as acid reflux.
The Final Note
Fish oil supplements are one of the most popular dietary supplements that provide you with the goodness of omega-3s, the polyunsaturated fatty acids that play a very important role in your body.
It can regulate your cholesterol levels by increasing the good cholesterol and lowering the bad ones. Fish oil effectively lowers triglycerides, prevents plaques in the artery, and can help reduce fatal arrhythmia in people who are at a risk.
Additionally, fish oil supplements can support your eye and brain health, reduce inflammation, and can be a great way of delivering pregnant and lactating mothers the essential omega-3s.
Fish oil supplements are readily available without any prescription. They come in various forms: softgels as well as liquids. They have been flavored and made odorless and burpless for easy consumption for all.
When taken alongside a balanced diet, fish oil supplements can support you in every way. However, remember to have them as per recommendations as you wouldn’t want to overdo it and risk any side effects. Select from reputed brands that are clinically proven and ensure high quality.