Is Fish Oil Making a Comeback? We are seeing a trend of more people seeking out fish oil recently, and that got us wondering: 'Is fish oil making a comeback?' A few years ago, fish oil was an extremely popular natural health supplement, but for a while, it seemed to have fallen off the radar. Trends, as the name suggests, tend to come and go, and it's interesting seeing this once extremely popular natural health supplement being part of a natural health protocol again, and it highlighted all the many benefits fish oil has on the body.
Let's recall the many benefits fish offers:
Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids are known to support heart health by reducing triglycerides, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing the risk of heart disease. They can also help prevent plaque buildup in arteries and reduce the risk of abnormal heart rhythms.
Brain Health: DHA, a major component of fish oil, is crucial for brain health, particularly in infants and developing children. It supports cognitive function, memory, and learning. Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may also help reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.
Joint Health: Fish oil has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce joint pain and stiffness in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. EPA and DHA can help decrease inflammation in the body, leading to improved joint function and mobility.
Eye Health: DHA is a major structural component of the retina in the eye, making it essential for maintaining good vision and overall eye health. Consuming fish oil may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and dry eye syndrome.
Skin Health: Omega-3 fatty acids play a role in maintaining healthy skin by supporting hydration, reducing inflammation, and protecting against sun damage. Fish oil supplements may help alleviate symptoms of conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
Mood and Mental Health: Omega-3 fatty acids are linked to improved mood and mental well-being. They may help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and mood disorders by supporting neurotransmitter function and reducing inflammation in the brain.
Pregnancy and Infant Development: Consuming fish oil during pregnancy is beneficial for both the mother and the developing baby. DHA is important for fetal brain and eye development, and maternal intake of omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of preterm birth and support healthy birth outcomes.
Perhaps one reason for fish oil falling out of favour was the efficacy of production and the concern that heavy metals (especially mercury) may be leaching into any fish oil supplement. Therefore, here are a few things to look out for when selecting a fish oil supplement:
Purity and Quality: Choose a fish oil supplement that has been molecularly distilled or undergone other purification processes to remove contaminants such as heavy metals (e.g., mercury, lead), PCBs, dioxins, and other pollutants. Look for products that adhere to quality standards set by organizations like the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s (GOED).
Omega-3 Content: Check the label to see the amounts of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) per serving. These are the two most important omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. Ensure that the supplement provides sufficient amounts of both EPA and DHA for the intended health benefits.
Purity and Source of Fish: Opt for fish oil supplements sourced from cold-water, oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, anchovies, or sardines. These fish tend to have higher concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids and lower levels of contaminants. Look for products that specify the species of fish used and the location of sourcing.
Formulation and Concentration: Consider the formulation of the supplement, such as whether it's in the form of ethyl esters or triglycerides. Triglyceride form is generally considered to be more bioavailable and better absorbed by the body. Additionally, choose a supplement with a higher concentration of omega-3 fatty acids per serving to minimize the number of capsules needed for desired dosages.
Freshness and Rancidity: Look for supplements that are formulated with antioxidants like vitamin E or mixed tocopherols to prevent oxidation and rancidity of the oil. Check for indicators of freshness, such as a recent manufacturing date, expiration date, or third-party testing for oxidation levels.
Certifications and Third-Party Testing: Seek out fish oil supplements that have been independently tested by reputable third-party organizations for purity, potency, and quality. Look for certifications from organizations like the International Fish Oil Standards (IFOS) Program, which verifies the quality and purity of fish oil supplements.
Sustainability: Choose fish oil supplements from companies that prioritize sustainable fishing practices and environmental responsibility. Look for certifications such as Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification or certifications indicating responsible fishing practices.
Health 2000 only chooses brands that support these practices, so you can rest assured that if you are looking for an omega-rich fish oil supplement, you're getting the best we can find.
