Fish oil capsules: benefits and harm to the body, how to take them and popular medications

Many people take fish oil supplements daily. In addition to supporting brain, eye, and heart health, fish oil has recognized anti-inflammatory effects ().

Most traditional and alternative medicine doctors recommend taking this supplement to adults and children on an ongoing basis. However, before you start consuming fish oil, you should know the dosage - how much of this dietary supplement to take per day.

In this article, we'll look at how much fish oil you should take for optimal health.

How much fish oil should you take per day?

Constituents of fish oil

This product serves as a source of vitamins A and D. It also contains fatty acids - saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated. Of these, omega-3 fatty acids deserve attention: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). They are useful for humans, but the body can neither produce them independently nor produce them from other substances.

Fish oil capsules.

Nordic Naturals

According to experts who know a lot about dietary supplements, this Norwegian brand is considered one of the best. Despite the presence of its own manufacturers, this food additive is in particular demand in America. Finding Nordic Naturals in our market is not so easy, since only certain segments of the population can afford to regularly take this fish oil. The reason is the impressive cost of the drug.

Beneficial and therapeutic properties

Each component has a beneficial effect on the body. Vitamin A improves visual function, maintains healthy hair, skin and mucous membranes of the digestive and respiratory systems.

Thanks to vitamin D, the risk of developing skin diseases and heart disease is reduced. In addition, this component helps regulate blood pressure, ensures normal bone growth, and prevents increased nervous excitability and convulsive twitching of the lower extremities.

Omega-3 fatty acids are characterized by a number of clinical and pharmacological effects:

• hypocholesterolemic - lowering cholesterol levels in the blood;
• hypotriglyceridemic - decreasing the level of triglycerides in the blood;
• antithrombogenic - reducing the risk of blood clots due to decreased blood clotting;
• hypotensive - reduction and normalization of blood pressure;
• antiarrhythmic - normalization of heart rhythm;
• cardioprotective - restoration of the functional state of the myocardium;
• antiatherogenic - preventing the development of vascular and heart diseases;
• anti-inflammatory - production of prostaglandins, which relieve swelling and pain.

For women, fish oil is useful because it helps maintain beauty and fight excess weight. It improves mood, which is especially important for premenstrual syndrome. The beneficial property of fish oil for men is its positive effect on the reproductive system. Potency improves, sperm production increases, and the risk of prostatitis and prostate cancer decreases.

Beneficial features

A large amount of fatty acids in the product normalizes high cholesterol in the body. In addition, the drug lowers blood sugar levels, so its use is allowed for type 2 diabetes. Indications for the use of fish oil are determined exclusively by the doctor. The useful actions of the product include:

• normalization of the circulatory system in the body;
• development and strengthening of bone tissue and muscle apparatus;
• prevention of inflammatory processes and colds;
• strengthening the nervous system and immunity;
• acceleration of metabolic reactions;
• improved vision;
• correction of skin condition;
• strengthening the nail plate and hair;
• replenishing the body with vitamins A and D.

Scientists from Pennsylvania State have found components in fish oil that can destroy cancer cells and prevent the occurrence of cancer.

For women

Regular use of capsules has a beneficial effect on the condition of the female body:

• promotes cell restoration and renewal;
• normalizes hormone balance;
• prevents gynecological diseases;
• has a general rejuvenating effect.

How much fish oil capsules should be consumed and what is the norm? The product is recommended for women during the period of planning a child. During pregnancy and during breastfeeding, the use of the drug must be agreed with a doctor.

The fatty acid components included in the food supplement normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands, can solve the problems of acne and pimples, and smooth out shallow wrinkles. Taking fish oil improves the condition of brittle and fragile nails, helps with hair loss, fights the appearance of pigmentation, preventing the occurrence of early gray hair.

To achieve greater effect, you can supplement oral administration of the drug with external use and prepare simple masks for skin and hair care. The following table provides effective recipes.

Table - Recipes for masks for skin and hair based on fish oil

For men

Fish oil has a positive effect on the male reproductive system, namely:

• has an anti-inflammatory effect;
• prevents the occurrence of prostatitis;
• protects against the formation of cancer;
• stimulates the production of the male hormone - testosterone;
• increases production and improves sperm quality;
• prevents the risk of prostate disease.

Fish oil actively saturates the body with energy. The product prevents the formation of fat deposits and accelerates the growth of muscle mass, so it is ideal for use by athletes involved in weightlifting or bodybuilding.

For children

How many fish oil tablets should I take per day? In the presence of certain diseases, the dosage of fish oil capsules for children is better determined by the pediatrician. For preventive purposes, the drug should be given to a healthy child correctly and according to the instructions.

For children, the drug is usually prescribed to prevent infectious and viral diseases, normal physical development, mental activity, and strengthen the immune system. The product helps:

• formation of bone tissue and muscles;
• mineralization and growth of teeth;
• strengthening nerve cells;
• preventing the development of asthma, allergies;
• improving fine motor skills;
• formation of sexual functions in adolescents.

For infants, fish oil is prescribed exclusively by a doctor, taking into account the metabolic processes in the baby’s body and the closure of the fontanelles on the head. Unauthorized use of the product can accelerate the process of ossification of the skull, which will negatively affect the development of the baby’s brain.

For the elderly

Fish oil brings significant benefits to people in old age, reducing inflammation in the joints and improving tissue repair. The product is able to protect against cardiac arrhythmia, thrombosis of blood vessels, and helps reduce the number of atherosclerotic plaques.

How long should adults take fish oil? Scientists have proven that regular use of the drug prevents the onset of senile dementia and Alzheimer's disease, activates brain function and reduces depression.

Systematic courses of taking fish oil reduce the risk of stroke by almost 30%, however, excessive consumption of the product, on the contrary, doubles the risk.

Indications for use

Dietary supplement.
Fish oil in the form of a dietary supplement has found application in medicine. It is available in the form of capsules and oily solution. The list of indications for use includes hypo- and avitaminosis A and D. Due to a deficiency of vitamins, people experience health problems - respiratory diseases are often diagnosed, vision and the condition of the skin, hair, teeth, nails deteriorate, and bone growth is impaired.

Other indications for use:

• treatment and prevention of osteopathies of various origins;
• complex treatment of eye diseases;
• prevention of atherosclerosis and vascular complications of this disease;
• elimination of hyperlipidemia.

Buying Tips

In order not to throw money away, before purchasing you need to not only check the expiration date, but also carefully study the packaging and instructions. Please note that the capsules should not contain anything foreign. The main components of the medical supplement:

• fish oil directly;
• gelatin;
• vitamins.

The manufacturer must also indicate fragrances and other synthetic elements on the box. Keep in mind that the components for neutralizing the specific taste of the drug are tolerated differently by everyone, therefore, if you have a tendency to allergic reactions or individual intolerance to such substances, it is better to buy fish oil without any kind of impurities. At the same time, there is no need to refuse capsules enriched with vitamins. This drug can help solve several health problems at once and bring maximum benefit to the body.

Many people are scared by the phrase “molecular differentiation” that appears on the packaging. Those ignorant of modern production technologies mistakenly consider such products to be genetically modified and refuse to purchase. In fact, we are talking about a special technique that allows you to increase the omega-3 content.

When choosing capsules with fish oil, consider the dosage - the higher it is, the fewer pills you will have to take at a time. Agree, drinking 4-5 capsules is not always convenient. At the same time, do not forget about the price. Calculate your funds in such a way that the purchase is enough for a monthly course. For example, one package contains 100 capsules, the dosage of which involves taking them twice, 4 pieces each. Accordingly, if you consume 8 pills a day, you will have to purchase a couple more boxes.

When making a purchase, do not forget where the dietary supplement was produced. Some companies locate factories and processing plants near environmentally unfavorable areas where pollution levels exceed any acceptable standards. This cannot but affect the quality and usefulness of fish products.

Who is contraindicated in fish oil capsules?

The most common form of fish oil release is capsules. Not all people can take them, as there are contraindications. For example, capsules should not be used if you are hypersensitive to the main substance. Harm to the body when taking fish oil can be caused if you have:

• hypervitaminosis A and D;
• kidney and liver diseases occurring in acute or chronic form;
• urolithiasis disease;
• increased levels of calcium in urine and blood plasma;
• chronic pancreatitis;
• cholelithiasis;
• active form of pulmonary tuberculosis;
• thyrotoxicosis;
• acute inflammatory skin diseases;
• sarcoidosis

Check out Omega-3 in your medicine cabinet!

Omega-3 is a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that are vital for our body. In total, this group includes 11 types of fatty acids. Only three are essential (not produced by the body in the required volume):

- alpha-linolenic (ALA),

- eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA),

- docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

ALA is only of plant origin. EPA and DHA acids are found in fish oil. It is the correct choice of omega-3 fish oil capsules that will be discussed in our review of recommendations.

Label information

The first thing worth mentioning is, of course, the drug label. See if the product manufacturer has bothered to include all the important information about their product on the label (packaging). If there is no information, and only the presence of fish oil is indicated, then it will be difficult to evaluate the product. A manufacturer who has nothing to hide will provide all the information in full on its label.

Fish oil and omega-3 – their relationship

Many buyers, without going into details, do not share the concepts of “fish oil” and “omega-3”, believing that they are one and the same thing. In fact, this is not entirely true. Omega-3 is a valuable component found in fish oil. Therefore, the dosage of fish oil and the dosage of omega-3 are two different numbers. And they should be distinguished. The usefulness of the product is determined precisely by the amount of omega-3 in 1 capsule, and not by the amount of fish oil.

Let's consider an example: 1 capsule can contain a huge dosage of fish oil - 1000 mg, and valuable omega-3 - only 300-350 mg. This means that 1 such capsule contains 300 mg of the omega-3 you need and another 700 mg of other substances that you did not plan to consume.

Therefore, when choosing a drug, look at the dosage of omega-3 in 1 capsule and the ratio of omega-3 to the total mass of fish oil (in 1 capsule). It is preferable to choose the highest possible ratio of omega-3 to the total weight of fish oil. Thanks to this, your body, while receiving maximum benefit, will receive less excess. For example, a good ratio is considered to be 950 mg of omega-3 per 1,300 mg of fish oil. You can find this ratio, for example, in Evalar Triple Omega-3 capsules.

Country of origin of fish oil

A manufacturer that respects its customers will always indicate the country from which the fish oil for the production of capsules was delivered. Countries such as Germany and Norway are considered one of the best producers in this area.

For example, BASF is considered one of the world's leading fish oil producers. And if you see on the label an indication of this particular source of raw materials, then this is a good sign. It is this raw material that is used in Triple Omega-3 capsules from.

Purity of raw materials

The most pressing issue for many is the purity of the raw material (fish oil), and these concerns are fair. With the development of industry and increasing pollution of water bodies, the likelihood of fish contamination with heavy metals, mercury and other harmful substances has increased. How to determine the purity of the raw materials on your capsules? Let's take a closer look.

It is important to consider three aspects:

1. Type of fish. Fish oil extracted from small wild fish - sardines, anchovy, mackerel, ancheus - will be safer, since they accumulate fewer toxic substances than large varieties of fish. A conscientious manufacturer indicates the breed of fish from which the fish oil is isolated. Therefore, it will be quite easy for you, as a consumer, to find out.

2. Degree of purification of fish oil. Here again, the country of origin of fish oil will tell a lot. So, for example, the Norwegian company BASF, already mentioned above, uses 6 degrees of purification of fish oil, while many manufacturers do not even reach 4. Therefore, for example, such drugs as “Triple Omega-3” from, which uses exactly this for its capsules Norwegian fish oil from BASF, you can confidently trust in the purity of raw materials.

3.GMP certificate. Whether a product has a GMP certificate is an important indicator. Manufacturing products under the international GMP standard is a guarantee of product quality and purity. As a rule, you can find out about this by looking at the label. If the manufacturer works under GMP conditions, this is included on the label.

Triglycerides or ethyl esters

Recently, supporters of an in-depth consideration of the quality of fish oil often wonder in what form the fish oil is in the preparation. There are different forms: triglycerides and ethyl esters. On the label they are designated as follows:

• triglycerides – TG

• ethyl ethers – EE

They are believed to differ in terms of absorption by the body. However, this is not quite true. Ethyl esters, entering the body, are converted into the required form and are also well absorbed. The need to use ethyl esters instead of triglycerides is that large dosages of omega-3 cannot be contained in the capsule volume if they are in the form of triglycerides. And the use of ethyl ethers allows us to solve this problem. That's why you simply won't find high-dose omega-3 products in the form of triglycerides. There is no significant difference in these forms. Therefore, you can buy the drug with both forms of fish oil.

Dosage

Many people are interested in the question of what dosage of omega-3 fatty acids to choose. After all, there are a variety of options on pharmacy shelves. Therefore, if you want to truly receive health benefits, and not just swallow inconvenient capsules, let's look at the recommendations.

According to WHO recommendations, the daily requirement of Omega-3 PUFAs should be from 500 to 1000 mg. Recommendations from the Research Institute of Nutrition of the Russian Federation provide for daily consumption of 800–1600 mg of Omega-3 PUFAs per day. Norwegian manufacturers recommend consuming at least 1900 mg of Omega-3 PUFAs per day. If your doctor prescribes you to take omega-3, then he should indicate the dosage.

Therefore, the best option would be to choose capsules with a dosage of at least 950 mg of omega-3 PUFAs in 1 capsule.

Benefit on price

Now that you have decided on the quality of the product on all of the above points, it’s time to pay attention to the price of the product. Omega-3s must be taken over a long period of time to achieve health benefits. This remedy is as necessary as food in our daily diet. Therefore, the price of the drug will be of great importance.

Don't rush to grab the cheapest pack. Pay attention to the omega-3 dosage. Probably, after recalculating the cost of packaging and the required number of capsules per day, the price will not be profitable. Therefore, calculate the price based on the amount of daily dosage of omega-3. If we compare the dosages of omega-3, then the most economical option, taking into account all indicators of quality, purity of raw materials and dosage, are Triple Omega-3 capsules from.

"Triple Omega-3" from - overview of characteristics

Triple Omega-3¹ contains 950 mg of omega-3 per capsule per 1,300 mg of fish oil. This dosage is 3 times higher than regular omega-3s - with a dosage of 300 mg². (That is why “Triple Omega-3” Evalar has such a name).

Capsules produced by Evalar contain fish oil (mackerel, anchovy, sardines) of the highest quality from Norway from the world-famous company BASF with a high degree of purification, exceeding even the requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia.

The fish oil in Triple Omega-3 Evalar capsules is extracted from wild fish.

Thanks to the composition and dosage, Evalar Triple Omega-3 capsules provide 3 times more benefits for the heart and blood vessels, brain function, joints, beauty of skin, hair and nails, and preservation of youth.

The drug is approved for pregnant and lactating women.

The high dosage of these capsules will allow you to take only 1 capsule per day (according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, which fit well into generally accepted recommendations). This is perfect for those who value quality and ease of reception.

If we compare the cost of drugs of different dosages, then in terms of daily dosage, “Triple Omega-3” wins in terms of price per course of administration. If we compare with drugs with a similar dosage in 1 capsule, then the benefit is even more obvious - “Triple Omega-3 Evalar” is 50% more profitable³.

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¹ SoGR name: “Triple Omega 3 950 mg.”

² The comparison was made with a dietary supplement that has the most common (usual) dosage of Omega-3 on the market - 300 mg in 1 capsule (these are dietary supplements that are leading on the market according to data from DSM Group JSC for the first half of 2019) .

³ According to DSM Group JSC data for 2019, on the Russian pharmacy market, the weighted average retail price for 1 capsule of the Triple Omega 3 950 dietary supplement produced is 1.6 times (50%) more profitable than its analogue. . The analogue for comparison was selected based on the active substance and dosage. Prices at specific pharmacies may vary.

Benefits for the body and treatment

Benefits for the heart.

For heart

Multiple clinical studies have proven that fish oil, due to the presence of omega-3 fatty acids, reduces morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and heart attack. Inhibition of the development of atherosclerosis was also recorded.

Benefits for the nervous system

The use of dietary supplements has a positive effect on the functioning of the brain and helps cope with depression and chronic fatigue. It is useful for children with attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity, dyslexia, and autism. All these problems are often associated with a lack of omega-3 fatty acids.

For immunity

The body's immune defense is strengthened thanks to fish oil. It is most beneficial for health in autumn and spring, when colds become more frequent and the body begins to suffer due to vitamin deficiency.

Instructions for taking dietary supplements

How and how much to take liquid fish oil is prescribed by your doctor, especially for young children. The instructions specify general dosages.

Adults

For adults, it is recommended to take a tablespoon orally two or three times a day. Therapy is carried out for a month, then a break is required. Two or three courses of treatment can be carried out per year.

Liquid fish oil can be used externally. They treat thermal lesions of the skin, wounds, and ulcers. The drug is widely used in cosmetology - as part of various masks for the face, hair, eyelashes and eyebrows.

Children

Babies are allowed to use liquid fish oil from the age of three months . Reception begins with a few drops, gradually increasing the dosage. Preparations from some manufacturers, such as Meller, are allowed to be used from 4 weeks. The initial dose is 2.5 ml per day. The daily dosage is divided into several doses - two or three. How much dietary supplement to take depends on the child’s age:

• up to one year - half a teaspoon;
• up to two years – a teaspoon;
• up to three - two teaspoons;
• up to six - dessert;
• over seven years old - dining room.

What to do with stains

When consuming fish oil, unpleasant situations often arise, especially when you try to force a child to take the oily liquid. The drug splashes, gets on clothes, and leaves unpleasant-smelling greasy stains. How can you easily get rid of dirt so that the course of treatment does not turn into a course of replacing clothes with new ones? There are several simple ways.

1. Spray the stain with dishwashing liquid, which will dissolve the grease. Then wash with washing powder. To get rid of the smell, you can use a weak solution of vinegar.
2. For old stains and delicate fabrics, use a mixture of glycerin, vodka in equal parts with the addition of one sixth of ammonia.
3. Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide, add powder and boil. This method is suitable for white fabrics that can be treated with high temperatures.

If you know other ways to get rid of stains, please share your experience.

Effect on children and during pregnancy

You should not give fish oil to your child without a doctor’s recommendation. Capsules are produced by different manufacturers. The composition sometimes includes additional additives that are useful only for adults and are contraindicated for children. Some capsules, for example, are recommended from 3 years of age, while others can only be taken from 14 years of age. The oily solution is also available with various additives. Some manufacturers allow its use from 3 months of age.

During pregnancy, women need omega-3 fatty acids. They have a positive effect on the development of the child’s brain and retina, and reduce the likelihood of premature birth. However, fish oil is not recommended during pregnancy. The product contains a lot of vitamin A. When in excess, this component has a teratogenic effect, that is, it disrupts embryonic development.

Fish oil for children.

Carlson Labs

It belongs to the category of premium products, produced by Americans in Norway and is famous for its high quality. Raw materials are extracted in clean, cold waters, which, together with technological purification, guarantees the absence of impurities in the finished product. Norwegian salmon oil is characterized by its energy intensity and sufficient content of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids. The range presented by the manufacturer is quite wide. A huge range of product dosages (from 600 to 1600 mg) and its numerous variations with different flavor and vitamin components allows you to choose the best option for yourself.

Known drugs

Biafishenol

Biafishenol is one of the brands under which fish oil is produced. The company produces several types of dietary supplements:

1. Children's room. This is a special supplement in capsule form for children over 3 years old. The manufacturer recommends drinking it to strengthen the immune system, strengthen the nervous system, and prevent rickets.
2. No additional components. Available in the form of capsules and solution as a combination of a vitamin complex and fatty acids.
3. Salmon. Its feature is the largest possible amount of omega-3 acids.
4. With additional components. The manufacturer adds various components to expand the list of effects of the dietary supplement.

Fish oil with additives is available:

• with valerian and motherwort for good sleep;
• with wheat and flax germ oil to normalize metabolism and rejuvenate cells;
• with vitamin E and sea buckthorn oil to achieve an anti-inflammatory and wound healing effect;
• with pumpkin and milk thistle oil to protect the digestive system from negative influences, remove toxins from the body, improve hormonal levels;
• with seaweed to remove toxins and achieve a rejuvenating effect;
• with rosehip and flax oil to normalize the functioning of the digestive, endocrine and nervous systems, prevent the formation of malignant cells in the body;
• with flax and garlic oil to strengthen the body's immune functions.

Kusalochka

Little bite.
Kusalochka is a supplement produced for children over 3 years of age. The production is carried out by the company RealCaps. The bite has several features:

1. The supplement has a convenient release form - chewable tablets (capsules).
2. Fish oil is highly purified. It contains no components that give an unpleasant taste or odor.
3. Kusalochka is made from natural Icelandic fish oil. Preservatives and dyes are not added to the composition.
4. Kusalochka contains a flavoring, but it is natural. It is added so that taking the supplement does not cause disgust in children. When chewing the capsule, you can feel the taste and aroma of orange, banana and strawberry.

To prevent omega-3 fatty acids from oxidizing and forming toxic elements, the manufacturer of Kusalochka uses several degrees of protection - adds vitamin E and makes the capsule shell using a special formula.

Golden capsules for children from foreign manufacturers

According to pediatricians, children need to take fish oil supplements just like adults. Manufacturers offer children medications with various flavors and vitamin supplements. Among the popular ones is O, which in the Netherlands produces chewable capsules for babies Tutty Frutty.

Convenient and tasty, no matter how strange it may sound, fish oil is also offered to babies by the American company Coromega, which produces a supplement in the form of chewing marmalade with citrus and caramel flavors. In Russia, many parents have already managed to appreciate dietary supplements, which is not at all surprising: it is much easier to captivate kids with colored jelly fish than with a tablespoon of fragrant fish oil.

How to take - general recommendations

There are several general recommendations for taking fish oil:

1. Do not take dietary supplements on an empty stomach. People who ignore this recommendation experience gastrointestinal disorders.
2. If the dietary supplement does not contain vitamin E, then it is recommended to buy it for simultaneous use with fish oil. Experts recommend drinking this vitamin to prevent the oxidation of fatty acids.
3. In most cases, the recommended daily dose is 2 g. The exact dosage should be found in the instructions for use of fish oil.

Fish oil is not a cure. However, before you start using it, you should definitely consult your doctor. The specialist will advise on the advisability of use, and will also tell you about fish oil in capsules, the benefits and harms, how to take this product correctly to improve children's, men's or women's health.

How much fish oil should you take?

There is no recommendation regarding the amount of fish oil you should take.

However, there are recommendations for total omega-3 intake, as well as EPA and DHA.

The recommended daily intake (RDI) of combined EPA and DHA is 250-500 mg (, ).

When purchasing fish oil supplements, be sure to read the label to determine how much EPA and DHA your supplement contains. Typically, 1000 mg of fish oil contains about 300 mg of combined EPA and DHA ().

General recommendations for taking fish oil for adults

The daily intake of omega-3 is 1100 mg for women and 1600 mg for men ().

Most people get omega-3 in their diet from foods such as flax seeds, soybean oil and walnuts. But they do contain ALA.

While the human body can convert ALA into EPA and DHA, adequate levels of these fatty acids cannot be produced on its own. To do this, you will need to eat just a huge amount of flaxseeds or walnuts. The best way out is about two servings of 250 grams of oily fish per week. In this case, both EPA and DHA (, ,) may be enough for you.

Generally, up to 3,000 mg of fish oil daily is considered a safe amount for adults to consume ().

Best Fish Oil on iHerb.com:

Minami Nutrition, Garden of Life Omega-3 Fish Oil, Orange Flavor, 60 Capsules (take one capsule daily)

Carlson Labs, Norwegian Salmon Oil, 500 mg, 180 Softgels +50 Softgels Free (Take Two Capsules Daily)

Carlson Labs, Cod Liver Oil, Super 1000 mg, 250 Softgels (take one capsule daily)

Carlson Labs, Wild Norwegian Cod Liver Oil, Natural Lemon Flavor, 8.4 oz (250 ml) (take one teaspoon daily)

Now Foods, Ultra Omega 3-D, 180 Softgels

Wiley's Finest, Alaskan Fish Oil, Minicapsules (Easy to Swallow), 450 mg, 60 Softgels

Best DHA Ratio

Nordic Naturals, DHA, Strawberry Flavor, 500 mg, 90 Softgels

Nordic Naturals, Arctic Cod Liver Oil, Lemon, 1,000 mg, 180 Softgels

Carlson Labs, Wild Norwegian Cod Liver Oil, Lemon, 16.9 fl oz (500 ml)

During pregnancy

EPA and DHA are essential for normal fetal development. DHA in particular accumulates in the brain during the last trimester of pregnancy (, ). However, many pregnant women do not consume the daily requirement of these fatty acids ().

Taking EPA and DHA supplements during pregnancy may also benefit your baby during infancy and childhood. Potential benefits include improved problem-solving skills and a reduced risk of asthma and food allergies (, ,).

WHO recommends that pregnant women take 300 mg of combined EPA and DHA per day - 200 mg of which should be DHA ().

Best fish oil for pregnant women on iHerb.com:

Nordic Naturals, Pregnancy DHA, Unflavored Formula, 500 mg, 180 Softgels

Since most fish oil supplements contain more EPA than DHA, you should try to find one with a higher DHA ratio ().

Be careful with fish oil during pregnancy as it contains high amounts of vitamin A. Too much vitamin A can impair fetal development. Follow the dosage!

Just 1 teaspoon (4 ml) of cod liver oil provides 2,501 IU of vitamin A, which is about 97% of the daily value during pregnancy (, ,).

Babies and children

The adequate intake of omega-3 for infants under 1 year of age is 500 mg. The norm gradually increases to adult consumption by age 14 ().

Likewise, recommendations for EPA and DHA vary by age. For example, about 100 mg of combined EPA and DHA is required for a 4-year-old child, and an 8-year-old child requires about 200 mg ().

Fish oil for children also naturally provides some vitamins, especially A and D, as these are stored in the fish's liver. It also contains vitamin E, which keeps the oil stable and can extend shelf life.

Best Fish Oil for Children on iHerb.com:

Nordic Naturals, Children's DHA, Strawberry, 4 fl oz (119 ml) (for children under 4 years, take 1/2 teaspoon daily)

Nordic Naturals, DHA Junior, Great for Kids 3+, Strawberry Flavor, 4 fl. oz. (119 ml) (for children over 3 years old, take 1/2 teaspoon per day)

When purchasing children's fish oil supplements, try to find ones that are specific to that stage of life to ensure the correct amount of nutrients is provided.

Although there are general recommendations for EPA and DHA for healthy adults, pregnant women, as well as infants and children, have different needs and recommendations for how much fish oil to take per day.

General tips for taking fish oil for children and adults

• Fish oil should be taken during or after meals .
• The norm for an adult is 15 ml or 1000-2000 mg per day , this approximately equals 2-4 capsules of 500 mg . The dose should be divided into 2-3 times a day .
• Pediatricians sometimes prescribe fish oil for children, starting from the first month of life; the dose should not exceed 3/5 drops twice a day . By one year, the amount can be increased to 0.5/1 teaspoon per day , and by two years - up to two teaspoons . After 3 years, children can take a dessert spoon of fat 2-3 times a day , and at 7 years old - 2-3 times a day, a tablespoon .
• The most expensive, especially valuable and high-quality fish oil is salmon .
• You can take fish oil continuously for 3-4 weeks , then take a break.
• The ideal time to take it is from September to May .
• Fish oil should only be stored in the refrigerator.

Fish oil reviews

Those who have already tried Mirrolla fish oil leave only positive reviews. The drug has unique characteristics and creates a rather multifaceted effect on the body. Fish oil prevents the occurrence of serious diseases, helps maintain excellent mood, as well as beauty.

Reviews about the drug are often accompanied by photos, which make it possible to clearly see how effective the product is for skin, hair and nails.

Many positive statements can be seen about fish oil, which is used for preventive purposes in children. The drug has a number of positive properties:

• helps the development of muscle and skeletal systems;
• accelerates tissue restoration;
• improves the functions of the visual apparatus;
• improves the immune system of the child’s body;
• reduces the risk of developing cancer;
• prevents the appearance of caries.

Fish oil is often used to treat obesity. Reviews allow us to conclude that using the drug with a fairly active lifestyle and a properly prescribed diet allows you to lose 3.5-6 kg in a month of use.

The scope of fish oil application does not end only in the medical field. This remedy is effectively used in veterinary medicine. But professional fishermen claim that fish oil is an excellent bait for carp fishing.

Pharmacodynamics of the drug

The beneficial qualities are explained by the composition of fish oil, which contains vitamins and beneficial acids Omega 3 and 6. The latter are required for the formation of insulin, which regulates the hormones of the digestive system.

Moreover, Omega-3 fish oil is considered indispensable for the body. “Mirrolla”, thanks to the presence of this substance, has a beneficial effect on blood vessels and heart function, prevents the formation of blood clots, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The positive qualities of fat also lie in the fact that this substance increases the amount of serotonin and inhibits the formation of stress hormones, preventing depression and reducing aggression.

Contraindications

The instructions indicate conditions in which a child should not take the drug:

• bleeding disorders, congenital (hemophilia) or acquired;
• open form of tuberculosis;
• dysfunction of the thyroid gland in the form of increased or decreased production of the hormone;
• increased amount of calcium in the blood and urine;
• renal pathologies, urinary tract diseases;
• stomach and duodenal ulcers;
• preoperative and postoperative period;
• allergic reactions to seafood;
• hypervitaminosis A and D;
• sarcoidosis is a disease in which foci of inflammation form in the form of granules, most often affecting the lungs;
• chronic inflammatory processes of the pancreas, cholecystitis in the acute stage;
• pregnancy, lactation.

Daily intake of omega-3 for children

Polyunsaturated acids are important for the child’s body, but even more important for the embryo developing in the womb. Without fatty acids, proper intrauterine development of a child is impossible.

How much omega-3 should children of different ages consume per day? The daily dose is:

• for children from 6 months to 3 years – 70 mg;
• for children from 3 to 6 years – 100 – 120 mg;
• for children from 6 to 12 years old – 200 – 250 mg.

It is advisable to agree on the dosage and course of administration with your pediatrician.

Rating of the best fish oil

Before starting the selection, we read customer reviews and conducted a number of tests. As a result, from 20 options, 8 of the best fish oil preparations were selected. This decision was made taking into account a number of parameters:

• Release form – liquid or solid;
• Packaging volume;
• Composition, its naturalness and diversity;
• No side effects and minimum contraindications;
• Speed ​​of action of drugs;
• Optimal frequency of reception;
• Recommended duration of treatment;
• Daily norm;
• Minimum age for admission;
• Variety of effects obtained;
• Best before date.

An important selection criterion was the price-quality ratio of nutritional supplements, their availability in pharmacies, the ability to purchase without a doctor’s prescription, and the reputation of the best fish oil manufacturers.

The best liquid vitamins according to customer reviews

Which is better – fish oil, Omega or flaxseed oil

These drugs are mostly “independent”, although there are products with the addition of all three components at once.

Flaxseed oil has a minimum of contraindications compared to other described products. Its effectiveness is equally high both in tablets and in liquid form, and its taste is more tolerable. This remedy is suitable for those who cannot stand the smell of cod liver. But it is rather effective for the prevention of various diseases, while fish oil and Omega fight well against existing health problems.

Features of the drug

The diet of a modern person contains quite a few natural products, the lack of which negatively affects the general health, quality of immune defense, physical and psycho-emotional state of adults and children. An organism that is unable to cope with a deficiency of vitamins and minerals is susceptible to a huge number of complex and dangerous infectious and inflammatory diseases. Fish oil, which must be stored in specially created conditions, can help solve the problem.

To correct the situation and significantly improve the quality of the body’s defense system, doctors advise taking various vitamin complexes. Fish oil, produced in the form of gelatin capsules, which can be stored in the refrigerator, is recognized as the most popular, in demand and effective drug. The modern pharmaceutical industry offers consumers more than 10 types of vitamin complexes, the main substance of which is fish oil.

These products are produced taking into account the age of the consumer:

• For children. The balanced composition, useful in childhood, ensures high-quality and timely development of all organs and systems of the child’s body. With Fish Oil, the child receives the required amount of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are responsible for his memory, the ability to perceive and assimilate information, physical and mental development. The necessary amino acids entering the baby’s body with Fish oil promote growth and strengthen the immune system, which means the child will be able to resist pathogens.
• For patients aged 12 years and older and adults Fish oil is essential to maintain the functionality of the cardiovascular system and joints. Representatives of the fair sex often take capsules with Fish oil, which contain cod liver oil in order to delay the aging of internal organs and skin (if the product is stored correctly).
• Elderly people are interested in the use and storage of Fish Oil because the process of physiological aging is inevitably accompanied by impaired functionality of organs and systems. Fish oil in gelatin capsules, which is quite easy to store at home, will help maintain their performance.

The benefits of using the oil composition are great, but people find it difficult to force themselves to take the drug in its pure form. Fish oil capsules, which are easier to store and take, are in high demand. That is why the balanced complex is enclosed in gelatin capsules, which makes them easier for children and adults to take.

Dietary supplement Mirrolla "Omega-3"

Price: 90 rubles.

The Russian research and production company Mirolla produces Omega-3 dietary supplements with various additives: calcium, valerian, motherwort, etc. It is enriched with vitamin E and is extracted from Norwegian salmon. The product is highly purified and therefore safe for the body. Small capsules are yellowish in color, transparent, and have no taste. Gelatin shell. The presence of vitamin E prevents the product from becoming rancid. When biting, a pronounced fishy taste is felt.

It is recommended to consume 4 balls daily at once or in several doses. Low cost, European quality standards speak only positively about this drug. Not recommended for use by children under 14 years of age, as well as pregnant and lactating women. The product may cause an allergic reaction. For everyone else, the product will help cope with dry skin, hair loss and brittle nails.

Advantages:

• price;
• high-quality domestic production;
• the ability to choose the most suitable one from a range of additives.

Flaws:

• inconvenient dosage.

Interaction with other drugs

The simultaneous use of Mirrolla with drugs containing vitamins A and D can provoke a vitamin overdose.

Fish oil is carefully prescribed simultaneously with drugs that affect blood clotting.

The instructions for use do not recommend combining Mirrolla fish oil with estrogen drugs, as the risk of vitamin A overdose increases. Taking dietary supplements together with anticonvulsants reduces the absorption of vitamin C.

During simultaneous use with Colestepol, mineral oils, Neomecin, Kolestyranin, the absorption of vitamin A is reduced. The combination with Isotretinoin increases the possibility of a toxic process.

Vitamin E at an increased dosage reduces the amount of vitamin A in the body.

Long-term use when using antacid drugs that contain aluminum or magnesium increases the plasma concentration of vitamins A and D.

The drug "Mirrolla" (fish oil) increases the absorption of products that contain phosphorus, increasing the possibility of hyperphosphatemia.

The benefits of fish oil, indications for use – who benefits from fish oil and how?

General recommendations for getting fish oil from food are two servings of oily sea fish per week .

For reference:

Athens scientists observed a group of subjects aged 18-90 years and concluded that regular consumption of fatty fish will help avoid problems with the cardiovascular system.

Scientists from Boston confirmed the data of their colleagues and commented on the research results, giving priority to fish with dark meat - sardinia and mackerel.

Scientists from the University of Sydney have released information that children who regularly consume fish or fish oil are less susceptible to asthma than their peers.

It has been proven that the lack of sufficient amounts of omega-3 in the body leads to memory loss. Fish oil lowers cholesterol levels in the blood and normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, stimulating weight loss . Thus, fish oil is useful for those people who want to lose excess weight and maintain stable body weight.

It is worth highlighting separately that fish oil increases the content of serotonin in the body - this is the hormone of happiness.

Let us remember that fish oil is mainly used for prevention rather than for treatment.

Does fish oil help you lose weight?

The calorie content of this drug with the addition of fish oil is quite high - 800 kcal/100 g. However, the use of this product makes it possible to fight excess weight.

Excessive body weight impairs the body's ability to maintain insulin sensitivity and maintain normal amounts of sugar in the body.

Maintaining normal insulin plays a major role during fat burning. This means that during times of low sensitivity it is very difficult to get rid of fat. Additional consumption of Omega-3 increases it, which makes it advisable to use fish oil for weight loss.

The benefit of the drug for weight loss also lies in the fact that in patients who take this drug, the amount of cortisol, a catabolic substance that burns muscle tissue and provokes the appearance of fat, is significantly reduced.

Solgar Omega 3 fish oil concentrate

Price: 2250 rubles.

American production is aimed at premium segment consumers. Solgar has been supplying the market with high-quality products for over 70 years. The composition of the drug is represented by concentrated fish oil, glycerin, vitamin E. Soft gelatin balls have neither taste nor smell. The product is made from fish that live in cold and deep waters. With this lifestyle, she accumulates polyunsaturated fatty acids.

The product goes through several stages of filtration, including removal of mercury and lead. It is also distilled at the molecular level.

This product is even recommended for use by pregnant women with appropriate indications and recommendations from doctors. Increased control over product safety helps to normalize women’s well-being and smooth pregnancy.

Advantages:

• high quality;
• security guarantee;
• approved for use by pregnant women.

Flaws:

• price.

Overdose and side effects

During long-term intake of pure fish oil, the following are observed:

• vomiting and nausea;
• pain in the lower extremities and head.
• loss of appetite;
• diarrhea;
• constant feeling of fatigue;
• hypocoagulation;
• bad breath;
• hypersensitivity processes.

Excessive overdose may be accompanied by: double vision, clouding of the head, diarrhea, osteoporosis, bleeding gums, astringency in the mouth, peeling of the lips.

When used in prescribed doses, the drug does not cause side effects.

Composition of fish oil - what vitamins are contained in fish oil?

It is believed that the fame of fish oil was brought by the pharmacist from Norway Peter Meller, who popularized fish oil as an additional resource for restoring the body.

Fish oil is animal fat, a unique and irreplaceable natural product, found largely in marine fish of the world's oceans - mackerel, herring and other fatty fish . The main benefits of fish oil lie in its unique composition:

• omega-3
• vitamin A
• vitamin D
• antioxidants

Let's consider the benefits of each substance separately:

• Omega-3 Increases the ability to dilate blood vessels, reduces the risk of blood clots, which produce prostaglandins necessary to trigger the anti-inflammatory effect in the body, accelerates the body's recovery processes, restores muscles, reduces the level of stress cortisone, improves the condition of the skin and normalizes blood pressure. A dietary source of omega-3 is, in addition to fish oil, flaxseed oil.
• Vitamin A Improves metabolism, plays a significant role in immunity, controls the skin and mucous membranes, protects the body from the harmful effects of free radicals and cancer, and is also necessary for maintaining good vision.
• Vitamin D Responsible for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, necessary for the construction of bone tissue.
• Antioxidants allow you to protect organs and tissues from the effects of aggressive radicals; they can also prevent the destructive effect of free radicals on body cells, slowing down their aging processes.

The importance of fish oil depends mainly on the fats ; the remaining components - iodine, bromine and phosphorus, bile pigments and salts , are contained in small quantities that are not capable of achieving therapeutic effects.

Advantages and disadvantages

The benefits of the Mirrolla dietary supplement are very great:

• the drug reduces the risk of diabetes;
• reduces the concentration of triglycerides in plasma;
• helps avoid depression;
• prevents the development of arrhythmias;
• slows down the formation of cancerous tumors;
• relieves inflammation;
• increases cell nutrition;
• activates brain function;
• helps restore tone.

But there are also negative sides to using it. Fish oil is a powerful allergen, which should not be forgotten by people who are susceptible to allergic reactions.

The drug also has some contraindications. For example, people with gallstone disease, thyroid disease, kidney and liver dysfunction, and pregnant women should avoid taking it.

Contraindications to the drug

Contraindications for use are as follows:

• hemophilia;
• personal intolerance to substances included in the drug;
• poor blood clotting;
• thyrotoxicosis;
• tuberculosis;
• cholecystitis and pancreatitis;
• CRF (renal failure - chronic form);
• neurourolithiasis;
• prolonged immobilization;
• hypercalceuria;
• Sarcaidosis.

In pediatrics, Mirrolla (fish oil) is used to prevent rickets and other diseases in children aged 3 months and older.

Storage conditions and rules

The place in which the owner will store the container (bottle) with capsules should be chosen in strict accordance with the rules and requirements listed in the instructions:

• The ambient temperature where the containers will be stored should not exceed +40 C.
• It is necessary to store the composition, ensuring high-quality protection of the packaging from light.
• The room in which the owner will store Fish Oil is dry and well ventilated, but without drafts.

Liquid Fish Oil can be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 3 months, but it is important to pay attention to the condition of the product. The composition must not be allowed to freeze. If the composition is stored at a very low temperature, stearic acids may form in it and flakes may appear inside the bottle containing Fish Oil. The composition can no longer be called homogeneous and it is not worth storing it under the same conditions.

The situation can be corrected if fish oil is stored at a low temperature for a long time and slightly warmed before use. To do this, just place the bottle (without removing it from the cardboard box) in a dark, warm place (bedside table or closet). If the temperature in such a room does not exceed 4-50 C, fish oil can be stored in it for several months.

It is important to monitor the humidity of the environment in which the Fish Oil capsules will be stored, otherwise the individual units will stick together and their shell will be damaged. The period during which fish oil capsules can be stored at home does not exceed 6 months, subject to strict compliance with all the requirements specified in the instructions. After opening the package, the bottle is immediately put into the refrigerator, where the Fish Oil will be stored throughout the course of therapy.

Daily intake of omega-3 for men and women

When selecting the daily dosage, it is not the gender, but the patient’s age that is taken into account. Therefore, for both men and women, the daily intake of omega-3 is the same. The amount of fatty acids consumed per day for an adult should not be lower than 700 mg, but should not exceed 5000 mg. On average, an adult patient needs 1500 – 3000 mg of omega-3 per day.

You cannot consume less than 700 mg of the substance, otherwise a deficiency state will arise, leading to poor health. From 3000 to 5000 mg of omega-3 is recommended to restore and strengthen the body during inflammatory diseases and intense physical activity. Also, increasing the daily intake of fatty acids is necessary when:

• diabetes mellitus;
• depression, nervous and mental disorders;
• tendency to diseases of the heart and circulatory system;
• increased concentration of cholesterol in the blood;
• joint pathologies.

It is recommended to coordinate the dosage with a medical specialist. An overdose is accompanied by nausea, bowel dysfunction, and dizziness.

Carlson Labs, Wild Norwegian Cod Liver Oil Gems

Price: 2000 rubles.

This drug is offered by a Norwegian manufacturer that has been producing cod liver oil since 1982. The fish is obtained from the environmentally friendly waters of Norway, and therefore undergoes minimal processing in order to preserve its original beneficial properties. The product is additionally enriched with vitamin E. The tablets are yellow, oblong, tasteless and odorless. Despite its size, it is quite easy to swallow.

To prevent a lack of Omega-3 and polyunsaturated fatty acids, you should take one capsule in the morning and evening for about a month. Then you should take a break for at least three months. The drug contains lanolinic acid, which is a constant component of anti-aging creams. The product helps smooth out fine wrinkles and rejuvenate the skin structure. Amino acids also ease the period of age-related changes in women. It is in the top of the most popular products with Omega-3.

Advantages:

• reliable product quality;
• high concentration of Omega-3.

Flaws:

• price;
• difficult to purchase at a regular pharmacy, you need to order.

Composition of the drug

The composition of "Mirroll" is a mixture of different acids and glycerides:

• Oleinova.
• Omega-3 PUFAs.
• Omega-6 PUFAs.
• Stearinova.
• Palmitinova.
• Oily.
• Kaprilova.
• Valerianova.
• Acetic and a number of other acids.

At the same time, fish oil contains:

• active pigment lipochrome;
• cholesterol;
• oxydihydropyridinebutyric acid;
• ptomaine;
• compounds of iodine, sulfur, bromine, phosphorus.