11 Best Fish Oil Supplements in 2024, According to Dietitians

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Nordic Naturals is our pick for the best overall fish oil supplement. Read on for the full list plus tips for choosing the best product for you.

A quick look at the best fish oil supplements

• Best overall fish oil supplement: Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Soft Gels | Skip to review
• Best fish oil supplement for skin health: HUM Nutrition OMG! Omega-3 Softgels | Skip to review
• Best fish oil with CoQ10: Thorne Omega-3 with CoQ10 Capsules | Skip to review
• Best fish oil supplement for pregnancy and breastfeeding: FullWell Fish Oil | Skip to review
• Best tasting fish oil supplement: Mindbodygreen Omega-3 Potency+ | Skip to review
• Best liquid fish oil supplement: Carlson Labs The Very Finest Fish Oil | Skip to review
• Most affordable: InnovixLabs Triple Strength Omega-3 Capsules | Skip to review
• Best high dose fish oil supplement: Viva Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil Softgels | Skip to review
• Best gummy fish oil supplement: Nature Made Fish Oil Gummies | Skip to review
• Best cod liver oil: Nordic Naturals Arctic Cod Liver Oil | Skip to review
• Best fish oil supplement for kids: Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA | Skip to review

If you do not regularly consume fish, consuming fish oil in supplement form can be a quick and convenient way to increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids.

These fatty acids play an important role in supporting heart, eye, and brain health, and for lowering inflammation and cholesterol, among other benefits.

They are abundant in cold water fish and seafood and in lesser amounts in plant-based foods, such as nuts and seeds, and plant oils.

Omega-3 supplementation is an easy and helpful process to increase your intake of this essential nutrient if you do not get enough from whole food sources. If you consume animal products, you can take fish oil in softgel, liquid, and gummy forms. Omega-3 supplements are available in a range of price points and dosages.

Here are our picks of the 11 best fish oil supplements on the market.

A note on price

General price ranges with dollar signs ($–$$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher price range.

Generally, prices range from $0.25–$2.00 per serving, or $17.29–$60 per container, though this may vary depending on where you shop.

Pricing guide

• $ = under $0.25 per serving
• $$ = $0.25–$0.50 per serving
• $$$ = over $0.50 per serving

Note that the serving sizes vary. Some supplements require two softgels or gummies per serving, while the serving size for others may be one capsule or 1 teaspoon (tsp), or 5 milliliters (mL).

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Healthline’s picks for the best fish oil supplements

Best overall fish oil supplement

Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Soft Gels

4.8 (13.7k+) from IHerb

• Form: softgel
• Number of servings: 60 per container
• Dose: 2 softgels per day
• Certifications: third-party tested for purity and potency, non-GMO tested, Friend of the Sea certified sustainable
• Price: $$$

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Healthline's review

Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Soft Gels is our pick for the best overall. It’s a high quality supplement that provides 1,280 mg of combined EPA and DHA sourced from wild-caught sardines and anchovies.

The softgels are lemon flavored, which can help eliminate the fishy aftertaste often found in other fish oil supplements.

All Nordic Naturals products are certified by Friend of the Sea, an organization that ensures that seafood is sourced from sustainable fisheries and aquaculture.

A certificate of analysis (COA) is also available for all Nordic Naturals products. This document provides detailed information on the purity, strength, and quality of supplements.

Kelli McGrane, Healthline editor and registered dietitian, shared that this supplement is her go-to for omega-3s.

“As a dietitian, Nordic Naturals has been on my radar for years as being one of the most transparent supplement brands on the market.

“While the capsules are quite large, I’ve found them easy to swallow. Plus, as someone who dislikes the smell and taste of fish, I particularly appreciate that the softgels have a pleasant lemon flavor that masks any fishiness that might otherwise be off-putting.”

• lemon flavor
• minimal ingredients
• third-party certified
• non-GMO verified
• certified sustainable

• expensive

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): omega-3s (1,280 mg)
• EPA: 650 mg per serving
• DHA: 450 mg per serving
• Available flavors: lemon

Best fish oil supplement for skin health

HUM Nutrition OMG! Omega-3 Softgels

4.7 (276+) from HUM

• Form: softgel
• Number of servings: 30 per container
• Dose: 2 softgels per day
• Certifications: third-party tested for purity and potency, Clean Label Project certified
• Price: $$$

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Healthline's review

HUM Nutrition OMG Omega the Great fish oil capsules are designed to support healthy skin thanks to their inclusion of DHA, EPA, and vitamin E.

Each 2-capsule serving provides 1,400 mg of total omega-3s, including 400 mg of DHA and 800 mg of DHA, sourced from wild anchovies. While more research is needed, studies suggest that consuming adequate amounts of DHA and EPA may help protect against sun damage and keep your skin moisturized.

These softgels also include 13.4 mg of vitamin E. Some research has found that inadequate intake of vitamin E may contribute to skin conditions, such as acne and atopic dermatitis.

However, keep in mind that it’s unclear whether vitamin E supplements have any additional benefits if you’re already getting enough of this vitamin in your diet.

All HUM Nutrition  products are third-party tested, non-GMO, gluten-free, and free of artificial sweeteners and colors.

You can purchase it without subscribing, but it’s much less expensive to sign up for a 3-month subscription.

“I’ve taken [other] omega-3 capsules before, and these are on the larger side with a distinctly fishy aroma. However, I like the brand and I have no problem swallowing bigger pills, so I would definitely continue with these.”

— Jessica Timmons, Healthline contributor

• third-party tested
• gluten-free

• expensive
• large capsule size
• has a fishy smell, according to reviewers
• not appropriate for people already taking vitamin E-containing supplements

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): omega-3 fatty acids (1,400 mg)
• EPA: 800 mg per serving
• DHA: 400 mg per serving

Best fish oil with CoQ10

Thorne Omega-3 with CoQ10 Capsules

4.7 (50+) from Amazon

• Form: capsule
• Number of servings: 90 per container
• Dose: 1 capsule per day
• Certifications: NSF certified facilities
• Price: $$$

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Healthline's review

This high quality fish oil supplement pairs omega-3 fatty acids with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a heart-healthy antioxidant that protects against oxidative damage and helps generate energy in your cells.

Each gelcap contains 630 mg of combined EPA and DHA sustainably sourced from cold water fish, along with 30 mg of CoQ10.

It’s worth noting that while CoQ10 supplements have been linked to benefits for heart health, exercise performance, and more, most studies suggest a dose of at least 100 mg per day. Because this supplement only provides 30 mg, people interested in the benefits of CoQ10 may need to take an additional supplement.

Thorne’s fish oil supplement has been certified by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), an Australian government agency that regulates medications and supplements.

All Thorne Research products undergo four rounds of extensive testing to ensure that you’re getting the best quality possible. Thorne’s manufacturing facility is third-party certified by NSF International.

• includes CoQ10
• third-party certified
• gluten-free

• expensive

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): fish oil, coenzyme Q10 (30 mg)
• EPA: 450 mg per serving
• DHA: 180 mg per serving

Best fish oil supplement for pregnancy and breastfeeding

FullWell Fish Oil

4.5 (15+) from FullWell

• Form: softgel
• Number of servings: 30 per bottle
• Dose: 2 softgels per day
• Certifications: third-party tested for purity and potency, Friend of the Sea certified sustainable
• Price: $$$

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Healthline's review

A daily fish oil supplement is a worthwhile addition to your daily prenatal vitamin during pregnancy.

Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA are necessary for brain development, and one 2021 study found that women who supplemented with omega-3 in pregnancy had children with improved early language development and fewer behavioral issues.

Additionally, omega-3 supplementation while breastfeeding can ensure that infants are getting enough DHA and EPA via breastmilk.

This omega-3 supplement from FullWell provides EPA and DHA from small ocean fish, which are lower in mercury than other fish. High levels of mercury can cause developmental issues, so it’s important for pregnant people to be mindful of the mercury sources in their diet.

The softgels are also very small and easy to swallow, and the supplement is third-party tested for the presence of heavy metals, such as mercury, and other potentially harmful substances.

“I have been taking these most of my postpartum journey so far while breastfeeding, along with FullWell’s prenatal supplement. I absolutely love that I have not experienced any fishy burps from the DHA, which I know can be common with this ingredient.

“It doesn’t seem to matter for me whether I take them with or without food. Some supplements give me a stomachache if not taken with food, and I know that’s a common side effect, so I appreciate this is one that I don’t have to worry about. If I forgot to take them during the day, I can easily take them before bed without having to worry about any queasiness keeping me up.

“I find them easy to swallow, and pretty much tasteless, which is always a plus with a fish oil supplement.”

— Catherine Conelly, Healthline editor

• contains DHA and EPA, unlike some prenatals that only contain DHA
• small and easy to swallow
• Friend of the Sea certified
• third-party tested

• expensive
• may cause fishy burps

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): omega-3s (600 mg), fish oil (1,000 mg)
• EPA: 100 mg
• DHA: 500 mg

Best tasting fish oil supplement

Mindbodygreen Omega-3 Potency+

4.9 (43+) from MindBodyGreen

• Form: gelcap
• Number of servings: 30 servings per container
• Dose: 2 gelcaps per day
• Certifications: ORIVO certified
• Price: $$

Use code “HEALTHLINE20” for 20% off.

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Healthline's review

Mindbodygreen’s omega-3 supplement features organic lemon oil and rosemary extract to help mask the unpleasant taste and smell of fish oil.

Each 2-capsule serving provides 1,500 mg of total omega-3s, sourced from wild-caught anchovies.

Omega-3 potency+ is certified by ORIVO, a third-party organization that confirms purity and potency of omega-3 supplements.

Jenna Shippee, Healthline content analyst, tried mindbodygreen’s omega-3 supplement for a few weeks and was initially impressed by the stylish design of the bottle, which stood out from the colorful plastic bottles usually used for supplements.

While she was intimidated by the size of the pills at first, she found that they were actually relatively easy to swallow and didn’t have the same strong fishy odor or fish taste as other supplements.

“As directed, I took the pills with food, choosing to have it each morning with my breakfast,” she said. “I was happily surprised to not have any taste, knowing these are made of anchovy. Also, I know ‘fish burps’ are common with fish oil supplements, but I did not experience any burping.”

“The price point is high enough that it does give me pause to continue with this brand, although I have enjoyed the tasteless aspect and just the overall look.”

• sustainable fishing practices
• third-party certified
• lemon flavor

• expensive

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): purified fish oil 2,144 mg, total omega-3s 1,714 mg, EPA + DHA omega-3s 1500 mg
• EPA: 857 mg per serving
• DHA: 643 mg per serving

Best liquid fish oil supplement

Carlson Labs The Very Finest Fish Oil

4.7 (13.3k+) from Amazon

• Form: liquid
• Number of servings: 100 per container
• Dose: 1 tsp per day
• Certifications: IFOS certified, Friend of the Sea certified sustainable, non-GMO tested
• Price: $$$

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Healthline's review

For people who prefer using liquid fish oil instead of softgels or capsules, this supplement is a great option.

Each teaspoon (5 mL) contains 1,600 mg of omega-3 fatty acids, with 1,300 mg from EPA and DHA sourced from wild-caught anchovies, sardines, and mackerel.

It’s not only certified by IFOS but also non-GMO verified, meaning that it’s free of any genetically modified organisms.

It’s also rich in vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin that doubles as an antioxidant.

Plus, it’s available in several flavors, including Lemon, Orange, Mixed Berry, and Just Peachie, which make it great for mixing into smoothies or juices.

• sourced from wild-caught small fish
• liquid formulation that may be easier for some
• lemon and orange flavors
• minimal ingredients
• third-party certified
• non-GMO verified

• some reviews noting that the cap may leak

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): fish oil (4.6 g)
• EPA: 800 mg per serving
• DHA: 500 mg per serving
• Available flavors: lemon, orange, mixed berry, just peachie, green apple, fruit splash, bubble gum, unflavored

Most affordable

InnovixLabs Triple Strength Omega-3 Capsules

4.7 (1.5k+) from Amazon

• Form: capsule
• Number of servings: 200 per container
• Dose: 1 to 2 capsules per day
• Certifications: IFOS certified
• Price: $

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Healthline's review

With 900 mg of omega-3 fatty acids packed into a single softgel, this Triple Strength Omega-3 supplement is an excellent option for people seeking to simplify their routine. Plus, it’s the most affordable option on our list.

In addition to earning a 5-star rating from IFOS, all InnovixLabs pills are produced from sustainably sourced fatty fish like anchovies, sardines, and mackerel and are purified to remove harmful compounds like mercury.

The fish oil capsules have an enteric coating to keep them from breaking down and dissolving in your stomach. This is thought to help minimize side effects often associated with omega-3 supplements, such as fishy burps and aftertaste.

• sourced from wild-caught small fish
• enteric coating to reduce side effects
• one-a-day formulation
• third-party certified

• large capsule size

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): fish oil concentrate (1,200 mg)
• EPA: 480 mg per serving
• DHA: 360 mg per serving

Best high dose fish oil supplement

Viva Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil Softgels

4.7 (10.7k+) from Amazon

• Form: softgel
• Number of servings: 90 per container
• Dose: 2 softgels per day
• DPA: 50 mg
• Price: $$$

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Healthline's review

This simple omega-3 fish oil formula supplies 2,250 mg of omega-3 fatty acids in every serving, with 2,068 mg of combined EPA and DHA.

In addition to being IFOS certified and certified gluten-free, it’s produced from small, wild-caught fish like mackerel, anchovies, and sardines that have been caught using sustainable fishing practices.

The oil also undergoes a purification process that helps eliminate any fishy odor or aftertaste.

• high dose omega-3
• sourced from wild-caught small fish
• third-party certified

• has a fishy smell, according to reviewers

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): fish oil (2,500 mg), omega-3s (2,250 mg)
• EPA: 1,500 mg per serving
• DHA: 480 mg per serving

Best gummy fish oil supplement

Nature Made Fish Oil Gummies

4.6 (1.2k+) from Amazon

• Form: gummy
• Number of servings: 75 per container
• Dose: 2 gummies per day
• Certifications: USP verified
• Price: $$

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Healthline's review

If you don’t like taking softgels, these gummies are a great alternative to bump up your intake of omega-3 fatty acids.

They contain 57 mg of combined EPA and DHA per serving and are sourced from wild-caught ocean fish.

They’re also verified by USP and free of any synthetic dyes and flavors.

However, keep in mind that these gummies supply a much lower dose of omega-3 fatty acids than most other fish oil supplements. They also contain 3 grams of added sugar per serving.

Instead of relying on gummies to meet your omega-3 needs entirely, it’s best to use them as part of a balanced diet filled with plenty of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

• easy-to-take gummy form
• third-party tested

• relatively small amounts of DHA and EPA
• contains added sugar

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): fish oil (227 mg)
• EPA: 9.5 mg per serving
• DHA: 47.5 mg per serving
• Available flavors: strawberry, lemon, orange

Best cod liver oil

Nordic Naturals Arctic Cod Liver Oil

4.7 (5k+) from Amazon

• Form: liquid
• Number of servings: 48 per container
• Dose: 1 tsp per day
• Certifications: third-party tested for purity and potency, non-GMO tested, Friend of the Sea certified sustainable
• Price: $$$

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Healthline's review

Cod liver oil is a unique type of fish oil pressed from the livers of cod, a type of fish that’s a rich source of the fat-soluble vitamins A and D in addition to omega-3s.

Sourced exclusively from wild Arctic cod from the Norwegian Sea, this supplement is available in liquid fish oil and softgel forms. It provides 600 mg to 850 mg of combined EPA and DHA, depending on which product you select.

Nordic Naturals supplements are sustainably produced, non-GMO, and certified by third-party organizations, such as Friend of the Sea and European Pharmacopoeia.

This product is available in several flavors, including unflavored, orange, strawberry, and lemon.

• available in liquid or capsule form
• sourced from wild-caught Arctic cod
• available in several flavors
• third-party tested
• non-GMO verified

• expensive

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): omega-3s (1,060 mg)
• EPA: 340 mg per serving
• DHA: 510 mg per serving
• Available flavors: lemon, orange, strawberry, unflavored

Best fish oil supplement for kids

Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA

4.5 (10.3k+) from Amazon

• Form: liquid
• Number of servings: 48 per bottle, 96 per bottle, and 192 per bottle
• Dose: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) per day
• Certifications: third-party tested for purity and potency, non-GMO verified
• Price: $$

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Healthline's review

Looking for a fish oil your kid might take without complaint? Nordic Naturals makes our list again, this time for its children’s DHA supplement.

The supplement comes in two kid-approved flavors, Strawberry and Orange, and is also available in softgel form.

It provides 255 mg of DHA and 170 mg of EPA per each 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) serving.

The product is made for children ages 1–6.

It’s important for children to get enough omega-3s, particularly DHA, because it’s vital for brain development and eye health.

However, there are currently no specific guidelines for DHA intake. Instead, there are guidelines for total omega-3 intake, which are as follows:

• Ages 1–3: 700 mg
• Ages 4–8: 900 mg
• Ages 9–13: 1,000 mg for girls; 1,200 mg for boys

Healthline editor Crystal Hoshaw regularly purchases the gummy softgel version of this supplement for her son.

She shared, “I love these products. I know I’m getting the best bang for my buck when I buy Nordic Naturals. My son never has trouble taking these, and when he gets bored of one flavor, we switch to the other for a while to change things up.”

Hoshaw also explained that Nordic Naturals is her go-to brand for fish oil and omega-3 products. “I trust it more than any brand on the market to be tested for mercury and provide high quality, potent, absorbable nutrients,” she said.

• formulated for kids ages 1 and older
• third-party tested for purity and potency
• kid-friendly flavors
• non-GMO verified
• available as a liquid or gummy
• no artificial flavors or colors

• reviewers note some kids don't like the taste

• Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): omega-3s (530 mg)
• EPA: 170 mg
• DHA: 255 mg
• Available flavors: Strawberry, Orange

How we chose

When rounding up the best fish oil supplements, we considered the following factors:

• Vetting: All the products included were vetted to ensure they meet Healthline’s medical and business standards, including but not limited to:
  • adhering to allowable health claims and labeling requirements, per Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations
  • manufactured in facilities that adhere to current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs) established by the FDA
  • produced by medically credible companies that follow ethical, legal, and industry best standards
• Quality: In addition to the quality of ingredients, we looked at the company’s testing and manufacturing processes. The products selected are made by companies that provide objective measures of trust, such as having their supplements validated by third-party labs.
• Fish oil source: We prioritized supplements with oil from smaller fish because they’re typically lower in mercury than larger fish.
• Certifications: We prioritized products with additional certifications from independent organizations to help ensure quality, transparency, and safety beyond third-party testing. However, we also included many products that use other methods to verify quality.
• Price: We included products to suit a variety of budgets.

A comparison of the best fish oil supplements

Product and price	DHA per serving	EPA per serving
Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega$$$	450 mg	650 mg
HUM Nutrition OMG! Omega the Great$$$	400 mg	800 mg
Thorne Omega-3 with CoQ10$$$	180 mg	450 mg
FullWell Fish Oil$$$	400 mg	200 mg
Mindbodygreen omega potency+ $$	643 mg	857 mg
Carlson Labs The Very Finest Fish Oil $$$	500 mg	800 mg
InnovixLabs Triple Strength Omega-3 $	360 mg	480 mg
Viva Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil $$$	568 mg	1,500 mg
Nature Made Fish Oil Gummies $$	47.5 mg	9.5 mg
Nordic Naturals Arctic Cod Liver Oil $$$	510 mg	340 mg
Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA $$	255 mg	170 mg

What to consider when shopping for a fish oil supplement

• Supplement quality: It’s important to check the ingredient list carefully and steer clear of supplements containing fillers or artificial ingredients. Ideally, you can look for products that have undergone third-party testing and are certified by an independent organization such as IFOS, USP, NSF International, or the TGA.
• Omega-3 content: Look for supplements that contain around 250 mg to 500 mg of combined EPA and DHA per serving. Some products may also contain ALA, a form of omega-3 fatty acid found in plants that’s converted to EPA and DHA in small amounts.
• Serving size: Some supplements may require you to take multiple capsules or gummies each day while others provide the entire dose in a single shot. If this is important to you, be sure to check the recommended serving size prior to purchasing.
• Fish oil source: You may want to consider the source of the fish oil as well. Ideally, opt for smaller, sustainably caught fatty fish, like sardines and anchovies, which tend to contain lower levels of mercury.
• Supplement type: There are also several forms of fish oil supplements, including softgels, liquids, or gummies. Which one works best for you will largely be a matter of preference.
• Freshness: Purchasing from a reputable brand can help ensure that you’re getting fish oil at its peak freshness. In fact, some supplements may undergo third-party testing to check for oxidation, which can be a sign of rancidity. You should also check the expiration date carefully and avoid buying in large batches to maintain freshness.

Certifications 101

Many of the products on our list are certified by third-party organizations. Here are a few of the most common to keep an eye out for, along with what each certification means:

• TGA: This is the regulatory agency of the Australian government, which is responsible for regulating the safety and quality of supplements and medications. Products that are approved by TGA have been audited and verified to meet their safety standards.
• Friend of the Sea: This organization certifies that fish oil supplements are sourced from sustainable fisheries and aquaculture.
• NSF International: This third-party organization analyzes products to verify quality. They also ensure that manufacturing facilities adhere to strict safety standards.
• IFOS: This certification provides testing results for fish oil supplements and certifies that they meet standards for quality, safety, and purity. Specifically, they analyze the active ingredient content, levels of harmful contaminants, and stability of products.
• European Pharmacopoeia: This organization certifies that products are compliant with current regulatory requirements and meet criteria for quality.
• Marine Stewardship Council: This independent organization assesses fisheries to ensure that they are adhering to sustainable fishing practices. Fish oil supplements with this certification have been sourced from these sustainable fisheries.
• ORIVO: This Norwegian-operated company confirms the species and origin of fish oil used in omega-3 supplements.

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• How to choose high quality vitamins and supplements
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What are the benefits of fish oil?

Fish oil is a top source of omega-3 fatty acids, called polyunsaturated fats, which play important roles in many processes in your body, including those involving inflammation, immunity, heart health, and brain function.

There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids:

• Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are primarily found in fish and are biologically active forms of omega-3. This means that they are in a form that the body can use.
• Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is found in plant foods, and your body must convert it to EPA and DHA in order to use it.

All omega-3s are anti-inflammatory and may have a positive effect on many conditions thought to be related to chronic inflammation — particularly heart disease. EPA and DHA may also help lower high triglyceride levels, a risk factor for heart disease.

Additionally, omega-3s play a key role in vision and eye health, as they’re necessary for eye development. However, while some studies suggest that they may help in the treatment of dry eye disease, other research has turned up conflicting results.

Omega-3s are also important for brain health. During infancy and childhood, they’re necessary for proper neurological development.

In older adults, omega-3 supplementation may play a role in promoting brain function and preventing cognitive decline.

Potential side effects of fish oil

The most common side effect of fish oil supplements is fishy burps, but there are now several “burpless” fish oil products on the market that claim to cut down on this unpleasant but harmless side effect.

Some people might also experience digestive issues after taking fish oil, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.

If you experience nausea or vomiting after taking fish oil, you can check the expiration date. The oil may deteriorate and become rancid. Consider lowering your dosage or taking the supplement with a meal to decrease any uncomfortable side effects.

You should also check with a doctor before taking fish oil if you’re taking other medications or have any underlying health conditions, as high doses could increase the risk of bleeding or suppress immune function.

Frequently asked questions

The simple answer is that there is no simple answer. Research on the potential effects of fish oil on cholesterol levels has been conflicting. According to a 2021 study, higher blood levels of DHA could be linked to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

On the other hand, one review concluded that fish oil supplements could actually increase LDL cholesterol, while other research suggests that eating fresh fish might be a better option for improving cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Therefore, it’s best to consult a doctor before taking fish oil if you have high cholesterol levels.

You can take fish oil every day. However, taking high doses of fish oil (at least 900 mg of EPA plus 600 mg DHA) over time may promote immune system suppression because of the powerful anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 fats.

It’s important to check the dosages of EPA and DHA in your fish oil before you purchase so that you don’t buy one that could lead to this effect.

Ideally, you should look for fish oil derived from wild-caught, sustainably sourced varieties of fatty fish that are lower in mercury, such as mackerel, anchovies, or sardines.

Some people might also prefer opting for cod liver oil instead, as it provides other important nutrients in addition to omega-3s, including vitamins A and D.

If reducing inflammation is your goal, look for a fish oil supplement that contains a good amount of DHA in each serving.

According to one 2021 study, while both DHA and EPA can help decrease markers of inflammation, DHA may have a broader effect.

Nordic Naturals Cod Liver Oil has the highest amount of DHA per serving on our list.

Fish oil supplements that combine omega-3 fatty acids with other ingredients, like CoQ10 or vitamin D, can be a great choice to help support brain function.

Nordic Naturals Cod Liver Oil contains vitamin D while Thorne’s Omega-3 contains CoQ10.

A 2023 study found that higher blood levels of CoQ10 could be linked to improved cognitive function.

Meanwhile, a 12-month study from 2020 involving older adults showed that vitamin D supplementation could enhance brain function by reducing oxidative stress.

Fish oil is one source of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA. However, omega-3 fatty acids are also found in food sources, along with other supplements derived from sources like flaxseed oil or algae.

Most health organizations recommend consuming 250 mg to 500 mg of combined EPA and DHA per day, with slight variations depending on your age and health status.

For ALA, the daily recommended intake is 1.1 g per day for women and 1.6 g per day for men.

Nordic Naturals is our pick as the best omega-3 brand on the market. Not only is their Ultimate Omega supplement third-party tested and Friend of the Sea certified, but they also provide a COA for all products on their website.

However, there are many other reputable brands to choose from as well. A few others that made our list include Thorne, mindbodygreen, and HUM Nutrition.

In addition to providing omega-3 fatty acids, some types of fish oil (like cod liver oil) may also contain other nutrients like vitamins A and D. This may be appealing if you’re taking these vitamins separately and looking for a simple way to streamline your supplement routine.

But while fish oil is one type of omega-3 supplement, there are several other varieties that may be a better fit, depending on your preferences.

For example, a plant-based omega-3 supplement might be a better option for those who prefer to avoid fish. In fact, research suggests that algae-based omega-3 supplements may be as effective at increasing levels of DHA as fish oil.

The bottom line

There are many types of fish oil supplements, each from a different source and with varying amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.

When shopping for an omega-3 supplement, it’s best to choose a product that’s been third-party tested to make sure the contents match the label and supplement facts panel.

You’ll also want to consider which form of supplement you prefer, such as liquid, capsule, or gummy, and your preferred dose. However, keep in mind that more is not always better. In fact, excessive intake may do more harm than good.

For best results, try taking the supplement alongside a balanced diet to help maximize its potential benefits.