Fish oil: what it does and how to use it safely
Fish oil supplements are one of the easiest ways to get omega‑3s—mainly EPA and DHA. People take them for heart health, brain support, and to reduce inflammation. But not all bottles are equal. Here’s simple, usable advice so you don’t waste money or pick the wrong product.
Start by checking the label for EPA and DHA. Those two are the active omega‑3s. Many products list total fish oil but give only small amounts of EPA+DHA per capsule. Aim for at least 250–500 mg combined EPA+DHA a day for general health. People with specific heart conditions often take about 1,000 mg (1 g) daily under a doctor’s advice. Most experts say staying under 3 g (3,000 mg) per day from supplements is safer unless supervised by a clinician.
How to pick a quality fish oil
First, look for the amount of EPA and DHA per serving. If a capsule has 1,000 mg fish oil but only 180 mg EPA and 120 mg DHA, you’d need several capsules to reach useful doses. Second, prefer products tested by third parties like USP, NSF, or IFOS. Third-party testing checks purity and limits heavy metals and PCBs.
Next, note the oil form. Triglyceride and re‑esterified triglyceride forms are usually absorbed better than ethyl esters. If freshness matters, avoid oils that smell strongly of fish. A mild scent or an enteric coating can reduce burps. For vegetarians or vegans, algae oil gives DHA and usually no fishy aftertaste.
Safe use, side effects, and interactions
Fish oil is generally well tolerated. Common issues are mild: fishy burps, loose stools, or an upset stomach. Taking supplements with food, especially a fatty meal, reduces burping and improves absorption. Store bottles in a cool, dark place or refrigerate liquid forms to slow oxidation.
Watch for interactions. Fish oil thins blood a bit. If you take blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel) or have upcoming surgery, tell your doctor before starting high doses. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or on multiple medications, ask a healthcare pro which dose fits you. Also check expiration dates—oxidized oil loses benefit and can taste bad.
Where to buy? Compare prices and certifications. Cheap isn’t always better. Look for clear EPA/DHA numbers and testing seals. On MexicanPharmacyPrices, you can compare brands and find the best local deals and verified product details.
Quick recap: pick a product with clear EPA+DHA amounts, prefer third‑party testing, keep daily intake in recommended ranges, and consult your doctor if you’re on medications or have health issues. Scroll down to see articles and reviews tagged “fish oil” for brand tips and deeper reads.
