If you keep up with the nutrition news you might be a little confused and wonder what source of fish oil you should use for optimum health.

After all, there are so many brands of fish supplements and now other sources getting press like krill oil. So, what is the best source?

Nutritionists and doctors usually say food is the best source of nutrients. That includes fish– if you eat healthy ones like wild salmon and sardines. You also have to eat it 2-3 times a week to get the benefits of the omega 3 fatty acids.

You probably know the wide range of benefits from reducing inflammation in your cardiovascular system to helping your children focus in school. These omega 3′s are truly essential to your well-being.
You can obtain these required fatty acids through fish or supplements. However, they need to stand up to scrutiny.

Top Fish Oil

The most important thing about both your food and your supplements is that they’re clean. You don’t want to ingest mercury and PCB’s in the name of health. Unfortunately, high levels of fish are loaded with contaminants. That trickles down into supplements too.

To protect yourself and your family, you will want to know which fish are best avoided because of likely contamination. These include king mackerel and swordfish.

Good bets are scallops, salmon (wild caught) and anchovies.

How to Choose a Fish Supplement

When shopping for fish oil supplements, don’t just grab the first bottle you see. Read the label and see what type of fish went into the supplements. You want to see named fish like hoki or salmon. Avoid bottles with “marine combination” or some other vague statement.

You also will want to know how they compare with the purity of other supplements.

Look for a statement of purity or a “certificate of analysis” before you buy a supplement. Unfortunately, price isn’t your best indication of a clean and effective supplement. Expensive doesn’t necessarily mean they’re the most pure ones out there.

You’ll also want to know how much EPA and DHA you’re getting. Many supplements have little DHA which is the omega 3 that makes up a large percentage of your brain. This is a major reason to get your omega 3 fatty acids! Why waste your money on supplements that don’t even give you 20% of the needed nutrients!

It might sound complicated but it’s really not. Spend a few minutes now to ensure you and your family are getting the best nutrition possible and you’ll feel good about what source fish oil you choose.

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