Most Canadians are not consuming enough dietary Omega-3’s. Supplementing with fish oil to increase Omega-3 intake is associated with improvements in cardiovascular health, cognitive health, joint health, mental health and skin health. Many people are interested in Omega-3 supplements, yet they might be unaware of some key factors to consider before purchasing a fish oil.
When shopping for fish oil, here are a few things to might want to consider:
1- Purity and Contaminants:
High-quality fish oil supplements such as NutriChem’s pure premium fish oil undergo rigorous purification processes to eliminate contaminants such as heavy metals, polychlorinated biphenyls (BCPs), and dioxins, which can be present in fish due to environmental pollution. By choosing a high quality product that adheres to strict quality control standards you can be confident in the purity and safety of what you are consuming. This reduces the risk of ingesting harmful substances and ensures a high standard of quality.
2- Optimal Omega-3 content (EPA/DHA ratio)
The primary reason individuals turn to fish oil supplements is their rich omega-3 fatty acid content, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). High-quality fish oil products are sourced from cold-water, fatty fish that naturally contain higher levels of these essential fatty acids. By selecting a reputable supplement, consumers can ensure that they are obtaining the optimal dosage of EPA and DHA, which are crucial for supporting heart health, brain function, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall well-being.
NutriChem’s Pure Premium Fish oil - high dose EPA/DHA ratio (>1800 mg) per 1 tsp vs. typical fish oil
Both EPA and DHA offer unique health benefits. EPA is associated with anti-inflammatory properties and cardiovascular health, while DHA is essential for brain function and eye health. While the ideal ratio is still a topic of debate, a common recommendation is to aim for a balance between EPA and DHA, with a slightly higher EPA concentration (2:1).
3- Enhanced Absorption and Bioavailability
Another vital aspect of high-quality fish oil supplements is their enhanced absorption and bioavailability. Premium products often employ advanced manufacturing techniques such as molecular distillation and emulsification, which improve the body's ability to absorb and utilize the omega-3 fatty acids effectively. This ensures that the nutrients are readily available for the body to benefit from, optimizing their effectiveness and providing the desired health outcomes.
4- Protection Against Oxidation
Fish oil, by nature, is susceptible to oxidation, leading to the formation of rancid compounds that can cause an unpleasant taste and potential health risks. High-quality fish oil supplements typically include natural antioxidants such as vitamin E or astaxanthin, which help prevent oxidation and maintain the freshness and potency of the product. NutriChem’s pure premium fish oil is contained in a dark glass bottle to prevent oxidation , as well as contains non-GMO mixed tocopherols (Vitamin E)
5- Non-Medicinal additives
When it comes to selecting a fish oil supplement, prioritizing quality is paramount. High-quality products not only guarantee purity, optimal omega-3 content, enhanced absorption, and protection against oxidation but also provide peace of mind regarding safety and efficacy. NutriChem’s pure premium fish oil contains natural flavouring and monk fruit to sweeten. Other brands use guar gum, xanthum gum and otherpreservatives in products.
Remember, while fish oil supplementation can offer significant health benefits, it should not replace a balanced diet rich in fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and other whole foods. It's important to consider overall dietary patterns and lifestyle factors when determining the appropriate dose and ratio of fish oil for individual needs.
