10 Best Omega 3 Supplements Tested & Fully Reviewed
Lauren Keating 
From non-GMO to pure Alaskan Salmon, we have created a list of the best Omega 3 supplements on the market today. We looked for the purest and healthiest choices, and although some do have other ingredients, we have narrowed them down to ones that are health aiding versus chemicals and fillers. It all depends on what you and/or your doctor feels your body needs. So, take a scroll and check out the FAQS that we have listed to help in your search.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 13 hrs of research
Eco-friendly and organic
Tested for harmful ingredients
Sustainably sourced
Tilapia gelatin capsule
Easily absorbed
High levels of Omega 3's
Less fish burps and mild taste
Free of artificial flavors or colors
10 Best Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplements
1. Wiley’s Finest Wild Alaskan
Eco-friendly and organic
Tested for harmful ingredients
Sustainably sourced
Tilapia gelatin capsule
Easily absorbed
High levels of Omega 3's
Less fish burps and mild taste
Free of artificial flavors or colors
Issues with certain sellers
Seems to go bad quicker than others (remember, the company doesn't use preservatives)
If you want a product that is completely safe to consume, eco-friendly, and organic then Wiley's Finest Wild Alaskan fish supplements are a great option to consider. It is made of the highest quality ingredients and are sustainably sourced and caught by fishermen in the USA.
Read morePotency
One bottle will last you two months, and each serving contains 750mg of EPA and 250mg of DHA. The capsules themselves are made of Tilapia gelatin, which provides you with 4 times more Omega-3s than other generic brands.
Safety Hazards
This omega 3 fish oil supplement is free of GMOs, gluten-free, dairy-free, grain-free. It also does not utilize any preservatives or artificial flavors or ingredients. This product is also GMP and FDA certified as well as tested for Mercury, PCBs, Cadmium, Lead, and Arsenic.
Effectiveness
The capsule is made of Tilapia gelatin, which makes it easy for the body to absorb them effectively and efficiently. They also employ the use of a patented molecular distillation process which leaves these capsules with a mild taste. They also leave you with far less "fish burps" than other brands.
Value
These supplements come from the Alaska Polluck fishery--they are actually known for being the best-managed fishery, for its sizes. Their fish are caught by fishermen from the U.S. and they are wild-caught and sourced sustainably. They are all natural and one of the eco-friendliest brands out there. If you want something that is safe and consistently tested for unsafe ingredients, then this is the way to go.
2. Antarctic Krill Oil
Formula said in increase Omega-3s in the body
Decent amount of Omega-3s in just one pill
Made from krill oil, not fish oil
Smaller pill size than some other brands
Not FDA-approved
Not for those with shellfish allergy
This double strength option contains 230 mg of Omega-3s from a sustainable sourced krill oil. Although this might sound low to some, krill oil Omega-3s are better recognized by the body, plus it features a formula to raise Omega-3 levels.
Read morePotency
This option is packed with 1000 mg of krill oil, with 230 mg of Omega-3s consisting of 128 mg of EPA and 60 mg of DHA. It also has 400 mg of phospholipids, and 1 mg of the antioxidant astaxanthin.
Safety Hazards
Featuring krill oil and not fish oil, this non-GMO and gluten-free option also contains kosher gelatin, kosher vegetable glycerin and purified water. Sustainably sourced, it is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and IKOS 5 star certified.
Effectiveness
Because of its specific formula, the capsules have less of a krill smell and is claimed to have no aftertaste. The Omega-3 fatty acids get bound to phospholipid, which helps to make it easier to digest than fish oil. Better digestion means less fish burps.
Value
This supplement is made with a formula called Superba2 that was found to increase Omega-3 levels in a clinical study. As mentioned above, the fatty acids attach to phospholipids that help assimilate them better into the cell membranes.
3. Viva Naturals
High levels of Omega-3s
CO2 extraction for more pure fish oil
In TG form for better absorption
Some fish burps
Can upset stomach
Price is slightly more expensive than other brands
This ultra strength supplement is packed with omega-3s, with a total of 2000 mg of the fatty acids in this easy to swallow pill. It is designed to be absorbed better for increased effectiveness and uses CO2 extraction instead of heat or chemicals. It is also IFOS (International Fish Oil Standards Program) 5-star certified.
Read morePotency
Each serving of two soft gels gives the consumer 2,000 mg of total Omega-3s that includes 1400mg of EPA and 480 mg of DHA. It also features another 120 mg of other Omega-3’s.
Safety Hazards
This brand uses a unique method called supercritical extraction, which increases the concentration of Omega-3s and differs from being molecularly distilled. Instead, this is a heat-free and chemical-free carbon dioxide extraction that both refines the oil and gets rid of any contaminants.
Effectiveness
Viva Naturals’ omega 3 fish oil supplements are in triglyceride form, which helps to absorb the Omega-3s faster. This supplement also contains other natural fish fats and oils that boost the absorption of the Omega-3s in the body.
Value
The method used to produce these supplements ensure that the fish oil is highly concentrated, triple that of many brands. The fish oil is from sustainably harvested fish from Peru.
4. Solgar
High level of Omega 3
Good absorption
For some users the capsules were too big
Solgar is a brand that has been on the market since 1947. This brand with a long tradition offers really worth checking Omega-3 supplement
Read morePotency
This one delivers 2800mg of cold-water fish oil concentrate. Daily dose provides about 1900. There are also 1008 mg of EPA and 756 DHA.
Safety Hazards
These supplements contain no artificial flavors, sweeteners, soy, or gluten. The shell of the capsule is made from a vegetable glycerine.
Effectiveness
The omega- 3s are absorbed very quickly, you can easily see the difference after only a few times of using. This is great if you are looking for fast results!
Value
Solgar comes in at the lower price range but is still a solid product. There were some complaints about the size of the pills but other than that, customers were very happy with these omega-3 supplements.
5. Sports Research
Has a 5-star rating from IFOS
Fish oil is sustainably resourced
1099mg of O=omega-3 in each soft gel
Uses only wild Alaska Pollock
No heavy metals
Some complaints about the strong smell
These high-quality supplements use only wild Alaska Pollock caught in the Bering Sea and are encapsulated in fish gelatin that is Pescatarian Friendly. It uses AlaskOmega omega-3 fish oil, a market leader in freshness and oxidation.
Read morePotency
You can count on a healthy dose of 1099mg of Omega-3 in each softgel to ensure that you are getting the most out of your supplements.
Safety Hazards
These supplements were the first AlaskOmega omega-3 concentrates that the Marine Stewardship Council certified as traceable and sustainable.
Effectiveness
To ensure that you are getting the best, Sports Research had a 3rd party (IFOS) test for quality and purity and received a five-star rating. It also provides users with total oxidation of 5, the maximum amount.
Value
Although these are not the most expensive item on the list, they still cost more than most. However, the quality is superior and backed by a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.
6. New Chapter Fish Oil
Sustainable non-GMO Guarantee
BSE free
Absorbs well
100% pure Salmon oil
Not over processed
Slight fishy taste
Little large to swallow
New Chapter Fish Oil Supplements are a non-GMO, sustainable supplement that is packed with fast absorbing Wild Salmon derived Fish oils. Loaded with 17 omegas including omega-3s and a mix of other high-quality ingredients, New Chapter guarantees a fully packed sustainable supplement that aids in heart health among other immune building benefits.
Read morePotency
New Chapter’s Wholemega trademark is made from 100% wild-caught and sustainable Alaskan Salmon. The extra-virgin style extraction process prevents the oil from being over-distilled, which is known for reducing beneficial compounds. Each Bovine based, BSE free capsule is filled with 17 omegas to include important omega 3’s EPA and DHA.
Safety Hazards
New Chapter Fish oil supplements are derived from non-GMO wild-caught sources. With a no-waste catch, no fish farming guarantee, you can feel secure in knowing the supplement you are using is coming from responsible certified Alaskan Fisheries.
Effectiveness
Each Wholemega capsule is combined with Astaxanthin, Rosemary, and Oregano oils, which work together with the Salmon oil to boost immunity while adding antioxidizing plant nutrients to promote healthy aging. Sticking with the sustainability that New Chapter provides, they have used organic sunflower oil as a preservative.
Value
New Chapter uses an extraction process equal to how extra virgin olive oil is made. This small detail lowers the heating process, giving a higher yield of unprocessed natural Omegas, which are also proven to absorb faster than more distilled fish oils.
7. Dr. Tobias
Pill coating helps prevent fish burps
High levels of omega-3s
Easy to swallow pills
Some report still to experience fish burps
Can be harsh on sensitive stomachs
This option features 1,400 mg of Omega 3s, while also meeting the daily recommendation of DHA with just one serving (two capsules). The pills have a special coating to absorb better, which also helps to prevent a fishy aftertaste. Non-GMO, tested by NSF and one bottle is a 90-day supply.
Read morePotency
The triple strength formula includes 2,00 mg of fish oil with 1,400 mg of Omega-3s that is broken down to be 600 mg DHA and 800 mg EPA per serving of two capsules.
Safety Hazards
The fish oil from wild and not farm-raised fish is refined and purified with molecular distillation at minimal temperature to be free of all heavy metals and toxins. It is then tested by a third party (NSF certified) to ensure safety and efficacy.
Effectiveness
The enteric coating of these capsules helps to make sure there is no fishy taste present. The specially designed coating helps to prevent the stomach acids from destroying the capsule and some of the fatty acids before it is absorbed in the colon.
Value
This comes in at the lower price end is not as pure as some of the other entries on the list. Ingredients include gelatin, vegetable glycerin, purified water, Vitamin E and enteric coating. It contains herring, anchovy, sardine, salmon, and mackerel as well as soy.
8. BioScience Nutrition
High levels of EPA
No fish breath
Serving size is three capsules
Capsules are large
High potency can lead to gas
Triple strength and high purity with higher EPA and DHA percentiles than other brands, this supplement is made in the USA, is FDA-approved and is GMP certified. The omega-3s are from wild caught ocean fish, and is refined to contain no heavy metals or other toxins.
Read morePotency
With over 4,000 mg of fish oil, this option has both high EPA and DHA levels. The supplement has a total of 2,250 mg of Omega-3 fatty acids for a serving of three soft gels, which includes 1,200 mg of EPA, 900 of DHA and 150 mg of other Omega-3s.
Safety Hazards
This Omega-3 supplement comes from the fish oil of ocean water catch, which is then purified using molecular distillation at low temperatures to make it safe for consumption. This supplement does contain soy but features GMO-free ingredients.
Effectiveness
This supplement has a burpless formula and features a lemon flavor that gives it a mild citrus aftertaste. Other ingredients include gelatin, glycerine, purified water, and lemon essential oil. It has 30 calories per serving size and 3 g of fat.
Value
This supplement is in ethyl ester (EE) form, which is the popular form of many heart healthy clinical trials but could mean slightly slower absorption rate.
9. Nutrigold
Tripe strength
Sourced and processed in the U.S.
Non-GMO
Pricey
Some report bottles go rancid fast
Sourced, processed and manufactured in the U.S., the fish oil comes from cold water fish from Alaska that is FDA inspected, plus is IFOS 5-star certified, and has ConsumerLab and Labrador certification. It is non-GMO, gluten-free, kosher and soy free, with 1,060 mg of Omega-3 fatty acids per capsule.
Read morePotency
For a serving size of two soft gel capsules, this supplement has 2,600 mg of fish oil, with 2,100 mg of total omega-3 fatty acids, which includes 1,450 mg of EPA, 550 mg of DHA and 100 mg of other omega-3s.
Safety Hazards
This fish oil is molecularly distilled so that there is no mercury, dioxins, PCBs and other contaminants. It is also a sustainably friendly option, sourced from certified a Marine Stewardship Council fishery that is based off the coast of Alaska.
Effectiveness
The capsule is made from bovine gelatin, vegetable glycerin, and purified water. Even though this is a triple strength option, many reports there are no fish burps side effects.
Value
The form of the Omega-3 fatty acids are ethyl ester, but the company points out that there is no strong scientific evidence that suggests that this structure is less effective that triglyceride form. Keep in mind that some research indicates that EE fish oils aren’t easily absorbed.
10. Nordic Naturals
No fish burps
Great absorption
Capsule difficult to swallow
Low concentration
Nordic Naturals prides itself on using environmentally conscious practices through education, science, and innovation, to produce omega-3 supplements that provide you with a healthy balance of EPA and DHA.
Read morePotency
To ensure that you get the most out of these omega-3 supplements, you receive more than 500 mg of omega-3’s DHA and EPA in each serving. This is more than the international expert recommendation.
Safety Hazards
This is a non-concentrated formula designed to give your body a natural balance and support cognition, immune system function, brain, and heart health.
Effectiveness
These supplements use a formula that is created in true triglyceride form to provide maximum absorption and results.
Value
These come in the mid-price range but are not as potent as many of the other products on the list. If you are looking for something that is natural and easy to absorb, this is a good pick.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Potency
Potency is incredibly important because you need to make sure you are getting the right dosage for your body and your needs. Here we took a look at how much one dose of the product delivers--and you will find that this varies throughout. Some deliver much more potent doses than others, so you only have to take one a day to get 1000mg--but there are others that will require you take 2-3 capsules to get the same does. Other products will require 2-3 capsules to get half the does and some are not high in DHA or EPA. If you are serious about your supplements make sure to read the ingredients and see how potent in Omega-3's they really are. A lot of people make the mistake of looking at the serving size and how many milligrams it delivers.
Safety Hazards
Since these supplements are often from fish oil, it’s important to make sure they do not contain heavy metals like mercury and PCBs to ensure safety for consumption. There are also options that contain no artificial colors or is gluten-free for those with allergies. Make sure to check if they are FDA certified and whether or not they manufactures have their products tested for heavy metals. It is important to take note of how often they have their facilities checked as well--if it isn't regularly than I wouldn't trust that all of their products are definitely free of these unsafe ingredients.
Another thing a lot of users look for is preservatives. While preservatives will make sure the product doesn't go bad, there are some companies that sell preservative-free products. Make sure to take note of their shelf life and use them up on time. If you happen to receive a rancid batch make sure you contact the manufacturer--this is rare, but it does happen (especially if you order them online).
Effectiveness
How well the body absorbs the omega-3s is crucial to see benefits. Omega-3 supplements come in two forms: triglyceride (TG) or ethyl ester (EE) form. The form also may play in role in how the omega-3s are absorbed into the body.
Absorption is important because you want to make sure you get the most out of your supplement. If you have issues with certain capsules or if religious or personal beliefs means you have to limit what kind of capsules you use, make sure to refer to the ingredients to make sure they are compatible with your needs.
When it comes to effectiveness it is important to remember that what works for you may not work for you and vice versa. If there was a universal product for everyone then we wouldn't have so many options to choose from. So, make sure to pick the right product for you!
Value
Where is the fish oil sourced from? Is it coming from farm-raised or wild fish? Is the product made in the U.S? Does it have any certifications to back up its safety and quality?
These are all questions you should be looking at when considering the overall value of the product. Here we don't just look at the cost of the product (although that is important) but instead, we take all of the factors we mentioned and compare them to the cost. Our list contains all kinds of products and their value to you may be different than our specific rank. If you want an organic and sustainably sourced supplement then you will be spending more money, but if this is not important to you than you will probably prefer to buy something that is more cost-effective. In the end, value refers to how compatible the product is for you and what benefits it brings to you, so make sure to take your own needs into considerations before starting your decision-making process.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Potency Safety Hazards Effectiveness Value
Researchers have found that certain cultures whose foods are rich in Omega-3s are at a lower risk for depression.
There are so many other benefits you get from consuming Omega-3s when you consume fish, but there are potential benefits through either method.
Other Factors to Consider
Bottom Line
It’s pretty simple – all you need to do is take a daily dose of an Omega- 3 supplement but choosing the right one – that’s the important part. Choosing the right supplement is important – but it’s important to define exactly what Omega-3s are. Omega-3s are fatty acids that are needed for your body to function healthily. The three main Omega 3 supplements are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). EPA and DHA are found in fatty fish, where as ALA is found in vegetable oil, nuts, flax seeds, leafy greens, and some animal fats. Some omega-3 supplements contain all three omega-3s, but some do not contain ALA.
There are countless brands that sell supplements with omega-3s. We did all the heavy-duty research to make sure that consumers are given a list that narrows down their choices when looking to buy. Each of the key factors in creating our list of the best omega-3 supplements is listed below.
Use
There are many health benefits associated with taking omega-3 or fish oil supplements. Although it has been debated as to how much they actually impact heart health, the supplements can lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels. As a result, this lowers the risk of heart disease. Omega-3s also have anti-inflammatory properties which help relieve arthritis and other joint pain. It can also improve lung function to ease asthma symptoms.
Expectant mothers have probably heard how crucial DHA is for their unborn babies and infants, as this aids in brain development. There have even been studied linking fish oil to reducing ADHD symptoms. Studies have also suggested the supplement can help boost mood and fight depression and anxiety. This is because fish oil supports serotonin, or the “feel good” hormone, which can reduce stress.
Product Purity
There is some back and forth as to which form enables DHA and EPA to be better absorbed, and which is overall safer. Some research suggests that EE (ethyl ester) fish oils go bad faster, and aren’t absorbed as easily into your body. One study found that TG (triglycerides) omega-3s are better absorbed in the body and that they are better bioavailability. Interestingly, EE forms of omega-3 supplements are most commonly used in clinical trials for heart health.
Other studies suggest that the differences in efficacy and safety are so minimal between the two forms. When it comes down to it, there is no clear answer to which one is more superior.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Q: What is the recommended daily dosage of omega-3s?
A: Researchers recommend at least 500 mg of EPA plus DHA for healthy individuals or at least 800 to 1,000 mg for those with heart disease. Pregnant women should take at least 300 mg of DHA daily.
Our list contains products with several different amounts of doses, so there are options for everyone. If you are an athlete or have any joint issues then you will want to consider a higher dose. There are selections on our list that have single servings with 1,000mg, so you don't have to worry about taking more than one capsule a day. Make sure you take the right dose for your needs, a little more is better than not enough, so keep that in mind.
q: Q. What are fish burps?
A: Fish oil can be hard to digest. As a result, gas can be created as the body breaks it down. Than then causes burps that have a fishy odor, which is commonly called “fish burps.” Fish burps can also be caused by impurities or oil that is not fresh since this can trigger intestinal issues. If you have ever experienced them, you know just how pesky they are--although there are some users that aren't really bothered by them. Several of the selections on our list made to reduce their occurrence, so look for that in the product description if it is something that is important to you.
q: Q. What are these supplements supposed to do for me?
A: These supplements will help with your heart, skin, and eyes as you age. It will also help control your metabolism. This is important if you are taking any of these supplements day to day.
If you are a runner or an athlete, these supplements will bring a whole list of benefits to you as well. They will reduce joint pain and issues as well as reduce all that creaking and cracking you may have gotten used to hearing. This is because they will lubricate your joints properly and keep you ready to keep moving. If you take them regularly you will note an obvious change in how your joints feel and how you perform. .
q: Q: What are common side effects to taking omega-3s?
A: One of the most common side effects is fish burps, which can be prevented by lower the dosage, buying one with an enteric coating, or placing the supplement in the freezer which will decrease how fast it is broken down in the stomach. Other stomach discomfort is another common side effect.
Depending on the ingredients in your product you may also have adverse reactions. If you are gluten-free or sensitive to the dairy or certain ingredients then make sure to take a look at the ingredients before making your purchase. The products on our list will market themselves as gluten-free or dairy-free if they are. Keep in mind that you may react differently to certain products than others do so if you have any adverse reaction that other users haven't noted then stop taking them and contact both the company and your doctor.
q: Q: How large are omega-3 capsules?
A: The size of the pill varies with each brand, but they are generally a standard size that is much larger than a typical aspirin, but not too big to swallow. Many brands offer soft gel capsules that help make swallowing easier. You will also find that others are much larger than others. If this is something that bothers you then makes sure you buy a brand that has smaller capsules. Typically the higher the does the larger the capsule will be, so just remember that if you get smaller ones then you will probably have to take more than one to get the right daily dosage.
q: Q: Who should take fish oil supplements?
A: Healthy adults and even children can receive benefits from taking fish oil supplements. It’s a good idea to take for those with heart issues, but as with any supplement consult with a physician first. Pregnant and nursing women should also take DHA supplements, an omega-3 that is found in fish oil. All athletes, no matter what level, also greatly benefit from these supplements. They keep your joints well-lubricated and help you keep pushing yourself to the best of your ability.
q: Q: What is the difference between omega-3 supplements and fish oil supplements?
A: Fish oil is the source of omega-3s that include EPA and DHA. Essentially they are one in the same, although some supplements include other vitamins. Our list does have some fish oil supplements on here--the one's we included are high in Omega-3's and you only have to take them once or twice a day. Store brand fish oil supplements are less potent, so the ones included on our Omega-3 list are some of the best to choose from.
Sources
- , Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Health Website
- , Triglyceride vs. Ethyl Ester Forms of Fish Oil Omega-3s, Supplement Website
- , How Much Omega-3 per Day?, Informational Health Website
- , The Facts on Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Informational Health Website
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