Friday, June 01, 2012
Wednesday, November 26, 2008 Marie D asks

Q: How to compare labels on fish oil supplements?

Comparing Fish Oil Supplements, one brand states it is cholesteral free, and shows .5g polyunsatureated fat, and fat 1 g. Another brand states cholesterol 5 mg cholesterol, and total faat 1 g. Also both say fish oil 1,000mg but the first one states EPA 180 mg and DHA 120 mg and Vit E 1 iu, the other does not give any EPA or DHA breakdown. Wouldn't both have to have the same EPA and DHA content although not clearly specified? Which might be better choice and why ?
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Answers (1)
11/28/08 9:53pm

Hi Marie,

 

Selecting a good fish oil can definitely be confusing.  You want a product with a high content of EPA and DHA.  Studies find a 1 gram omega 3 supplement containing 850 mg of DHA and EPA to reduce heart disease risk 30%. 

 

Always speak with your MD before adding a supplement to your diet, especially since you are taking medications.

 

Check out these two posts to learn more about omega 3's:

Top 5 Omega 3 Sources to Lower Cholesterol

Omega 3's - How much to lower cholesterol?

 

All the best,

 

Lisa Nelson, RD, LN

8 Essential Steps to Lower Cholesterol Naturally

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By Marie D— Last Modified: 12/27/10, First Published: 11/26/08