Are you taking fish oil supplements? You might want to check what's really in those capsules. Recent research has revealed some shocking truths about the quality of omega-3 supplements, and we're here to help you make informed choices about the kinds of supplements that you spend your money on.
THE ALARMING REALITY OF FISH OIL SUPPLEMENTS
FORGET EVERYTHING YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW ABOUT FISH OIL SUPPLEMENTS
A groundbreaking analysis of 72 omega-3 supplements in the US has revealed something that should make us all stop and think: 68% of flavoured supplements and 13% of unflavoured supplements were found to be rancid. Yes, you read that right - the majority of flavoured fish oil supplements might not be giving you the benefits you're paying for, and in fact damaging your health instead of supporting it.
WHY DOES THIS MATTER?
Just like we always stress the importance of quality nutrients and healthy fats in your diet, the quality of your supplements matters enormously. When fish oil becomes rancid:
- It loses its beneficial properties
- The oxidised oils might not provide the health benefits you're investing in
- You could be wasting money on ineffective supplements
- Those artificial flavourings and the capsule that contains the fish oil might be masking the problem!
HOW TO CHOOSE AND STORE YOUR FISH OIL SUPPLEMENTS
Here's what you need to know to protect your investment and your health:
STORAGE IS CRUCIAL
Just as we tell you to store your fish, coconut oil and MCT oil properly, fish oil and omega 3 dha Algae Oil need special care:
- Keep them in the fridge
- Never stockpile - buy only what you'll use in 90 days
- Avoid exposure to heat and humidity
THE FRESHNESS TEST
Here's a simple hack - crack open a capsule:
- If it smells fresh, you're good to go
- If it smells rancid or extremely fishy, bin it!
- Trust your nose - it's evolved to protect you from oxidised fats
- Even better, just buy O3Smoothies Algae derived omega 3 fatty acids as algae is far more stable than fish oil, it's tastier and it's more sustainable.
BUYING TIPS
- Don't be tempted by bargain prices - quality matters!
- Check manufacturing and expiration dates
- Have a look at the Omega 3 DHA content. Often supplements only contain Omega 3 ALA which has only a 5% conversion rate to the DHA.
- You can trust O3Smoothies.
THE REAL FOOD ALTERNATIVE
Just as we advocate eating real, whole foods on any diet, the same applies to omega-3s. The research suggests that eating actual fish and supplementing with algae omega 3 is more beneficial than taking fish oil capsules. Consider incorporating:
- O3Smoothies
- Wild-caught fatty fish
- Sardines
- Mackerel
- Salmon
SUPPLEMENTS DONE RIGHT
If you do choose to supplement (and many of us do!), remember:
- Quality over price
- Proper storage is essential
- Avoid fish oil capsules
THE BOTTOM LINE
Just as we're careful about choosing quality nutrients and fats for a healthy lifestyle, we need to be equally discerning about our supplements. Don't let rancid fish oil sabotage your health journey!
Want to learn more about making the right supplement choices? Explore O3Smoothies here.
Recommended Reading:
- The Supplement Handbook by Mark Moyad
- Eat Wild by Jo Robinson
- The Omega Principle by Paul Greenberg
Remember: Quality matters! Whether it's your daily MCT oil or your omega-3 supplements, investing in high-quality products is investing in your health.
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