Omega-3 / Fish Oil

Buy Omega-3 and Fish Oil: EPA and DHA Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids are unsaturated fats. The best-known are EPA and DHA, which mainly come from oily fish, and ALA, which is found in plant-based sources. EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart; this beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg of EPA and DHA. If you eat little oily fish, an omega-3 supplement can be a practical addition to your daily diet.

In our range, you will find omega-3 from various sources and in different dosages, from fish oil in triglyceride form to krill oil with astaxanthin, in capsules and softgels from various brands. Whether you are looking for a highly concentrated EPA and DHA content or a standard dosage for daily use, there is a suitable choice for every need.

What are omega-3 fatty acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that the body needs but cannot produce on its own or can only produce in very small amounts. There are three important forms. ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) is the plant-based variant and is found in sources such as flaxseed, walnuts, and chia seeds. EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are the so-called long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and are mainly found in oily fish and seafood. The body can convert ALA into EPA and DHA to a limited extent. That is why a direct source of EPA and DHA, such as fish oil, is often used as a supplement.

What do EPA and DHA contribute to?

There are permitted health claims for EPA and DHA. EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart; this beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg of EPA and DHA. DHA also contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function and the maintenance of normal vision; these beneficial effects are obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg of DHA. These claims only apply to products that provide these amounts per daily dose. On the label of each product, you will find how much EPA and DHA is provided per serving, so you can check whether these amounts are met.

Fish oil, krill oil, or algae oil: which source do you choose?

Omega-3 is available from various sources. Fish oil is the most commonly used source and is extracted from oily fish; it provides EPA and DHA and is available in various concentrations. Krill oil comes from small shrimp-like crustaceans and contains EPA and DHA in phospholipid form, often in combination with the natural coloring astaxanthin. Algae oil is the plant-based source of EPA and DHA and is therefore suitable for those who do not use animal products. Fish oil and krill oil form the basis of our omega-3 range, in various dosages and from various brands.

Triglyceride versus ethyl ester form

The omega-3 fatty acids in a supplement can occur in various chemical forms. In the natural triglyceride form, the fatty acids are bound as they are in fish. The ethyl ester form is created when fish oil is concentrated and allows for high EPA and DHA levels. Many products in our range are formulated in the triglyceride form. The packaging states which form has been used.

How much omega-3 per day?

The amount associated with the permitted claims varies per claim: 250 mg of EPA and DHA per day for the normal function of the heart, and 250 mg of DHA per day for brain function and vision. Many supplements provide an amount per serving that more than meets this requirement. When determining the dosage, always pay attention to the actual EPA and DHA content per capsule or softgel, and follow the directions for use on the packaging. If in doubt, or if you are taking blood-thinning medication, it is wise to consult a doctor beforehand.

What does omega-3 naturally occur in?

You get EPA and DHA mainly through oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, and anchovies. The Health Council advises eating fish weekly, preferably including some oily fish. ALA, the plant-based omega-3, is found in flaxseed and flaxseed oil, walnuts, chia seeds, and rapeseed oil. Because the conversion of ALA to EPA and DHA in the body is limited, people who eat little or no fish often do not get enough EPA and DHA from food alone. A supplement with fish oil, krill oil, or algae oil can then be an addition.

Pay attention to the EPA and DHA content on the label

When comparing omega-3 supplements, the total amount of fish oil is not the deciding factor, but the content of EPA and DHA fatty acids. For example, a 1000 mg fish oil capsule does not always contain 1000 mg of EPA and DHA; the actual content can vary greatly per product and per concentration. Therefore, always look at the stated amount of EPA and DHA per serving instead of the total oil weight. This way, you can fairly compare products and determine how many capsules or softgels you need for the desired daily intake.

Who is an omega-3 supplement interesting for?

An omega-3 supplement is mainly chosen by people who eat little or no oily fish. Those who follow a plant-based or vegetarian diet also often choose an omega-3 source, with algae oil being a plant-based option. A supplement is an addition to and not a replacement for a varied diet with sufficient fish. If in doubt about your personal needs, you can ask a dietitian or doctor for advice.

What should you pay attention to when buying omega-3 and fish oil?

When choosing an omega-3 supplement, several points are important. First of all, look at the EPA and DHA content per serving, because that determines how much omega-3 you are getting. Also pay attention to the form, for example the natural triglyceride form. Purity is also important; molecularly distilled fish oil is purified of unwanted substances such as heavy metals. A low oxidation level and an expiration date indicate fresh oil. Finally, choose the source that suits you, such as fish oil, krill oil, or a plant-based algae oil, and stick to the recommended daily amount on the packaging.