The Secrets Of Fish Oil Supplements
If you have been advised by a doctor to start taking fish oil supplements or just want to provide that extra health boost on your own, you may be worried about issues such as mercury content. Learning how to select a supplement properly can eliminate not only that worry, but a few others as well.
Whether you are eating fish fresh to get the oil or are going with a supplement, you need to consider the type of fish used and where it comes from. It turns out fish are not all equal.
If you assume that fish are just taken fresh from the ocean you may be surprised to learn that there are fish farms these days. Fish that come from these “farms” are more likely to have impurities which can be passed on to your body through your supplements.
The exact type of fish that the oil comes from is another concern. Some fish are known to have higher levels of mercury and other metals that can be harmful to the human body. For example, many people concerned with their health will eat salmon over tuna because it has much lower mercury content.
Knowing exactly where the fish used for your supplement came from is a big comfort. Cod liver oil is the best you can purchase, but it can run a little higher than some other supplements.
Purity is another issue. Some cheaper supplements are very easy to find through local stores but they are likely higher in impurities and could pose more harm than good. While you don’t necessarily have to find one that states it is pure on the label, you do want to do some research into brands and make sure you are buying one that is reasonably pure.
If you want the absolute best look for 100% pure cod liver oil. While it does not have the most appealing taste and is not as easy to get down as the large capsules that are typically taken, you will benefit from the extra health rewards.
You can always mix the oil into milkshakes or smoothies so that the taste is completely masked. Even children will easily take it if served in this manner. For a very simple smoothie combine the oil with frozen fruit and juice and simply blend.
Fish oil supplements are extremely beneficial to the mental and physical health of children and adults. If you do not eat fish at least two to three times every week, then this a supplement the entire family really needs.