The 13 Best Fish Oil Supplements (2024)

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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.

The 13 Best Fish Oil Supplements (1)Share on Pinterest

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. They’re available in a range of price points and dosages.

Keep reading to see 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 $0.20–$1.10 per serving, or $16–$55 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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Disclaimer: Some of the products below were provided to Healthline testers for free. Our opinions and reviews are ours alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by the brands.

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.
Product PriceDHA per servingEPA per servingThird-party
tested*
Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega
$$$450 mg650 mgyes
HUM Nutrition OMG! Omega the Great
$$$400 mg800 mgyes
Thorne Omega-3 with CoQ10$$$180 mg450 mgyes
FullWell Fish Oil$$$400 mg200 mgyes
mindbodygreen omega potency+$$643 mg857 mgyes
Carlson Labs The Very Finest Fish Oil$$$500 mg800 mgyes
InnovixLabs Triple Strength Omega-3$360 mg480 mgyes
Viva Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil$$$480 mg1,400 mgyes
Nature Made Fish Oil Gummies$$47.5 mg9.5 mgyes
Nordic Naturals Arctic Cod Liver Oil$$$510 mg340 mgyes
Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA$$255 mg170 mgyes

*Third-party testing refers to whether the purity and potency of a product has been confirmed by a third-party lab.

  • 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 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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Useful supplement shopping guides

  • How to choose high quality vitamins and supplements
  • How to read supplement labels like a pro

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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.

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.

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, at whatever time works for you. Because fish oil does not offer immediate benefits, what’s most important is that you take it consistently, ideally alongside a fat-containing meal to boost absorption.

If you experience side effects from fish oil supplements, such as nausea or acid reflux, you may find the supplement easier to tolerate by splitting it into two smaller doses throughout the day.

Keep in mind that omega-3 products and fish oil supplements can have blood-thinning effects in high doses. Fish oil might also cause other side effects, including diarrhea, insomnia, and high blood sugar levels.

A doctor can provide guidance on how much you should take. It’s also important to check with a healthcare professional before taking fish oil if you’re also taking a blood-thinning medication, such as warfarin or another anticoagulant.

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 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.

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 a fish oil supplement, it’s best to choose a product that’s been third-party tested to make sure the contents match the label.

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.

Finally, try taking the supplement alongside a balanced diet to maximize its benefits.

The 13 Best Fish Oil Supplements (2024)

FAQs

What is better than fish oil for inflammation? ›

Krill oil contains both DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids and the antioxidant astaxanthin, which gives them a red color. This powerful antioxidant also has anti-inflammatory properties.

What is the safest amount of fish oil to take daily? ›

When taken by mouth: Fish oil is likely safe for most people in doses of 3 grams or less daily. Taking more than 3 grams daily might increase the chance of bleeding. Fish oil side effects include heartburn, loose stools, and nosebleeds. Taking fish oil supplements with meals or freezing them can reduce these issues.

Does fish oil lower cholesterol and blood pressure? ›

Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, a type of fat that may help reduce a person's blood pressure. However, it is unclear if fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids can lower cholesterol. The three main types of omega-3 fatty acids are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Which company is best for fish oil capsules? ›

Is it necessary to take fish oil supplements?
  • Now Foods Omega-3 Fish Oil₹999.
  • MuscleBlaze Omega 3 Fish Oil Gold 1250mg - Triple Strength Formula (560mg EPA & 400mg DHA)₹849.
  • GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil Softgels₹549.
  • Pole Nutrition Omega 3₹807.
  • HealthAid Omega 3 750mg (EPA 425mg, DHA 325mg)₹1,260.

How do I choose the best fish oil capsules? ›

6 tips for choosing the best fish oil
  1. Look for the levels of EPA and DHA. ...
  2. Check for evidence of purity. ...
  3. Make sure the supplement is fresh. ...
  4. Choose a highly absorbed (or bioavailable) supplement. ...
  5. Check if it's sustainable or eco-friendly. ...
  6. Understand value for money.
Oct 10, 2017

Is turmeric better than fish oil? ›

So, Fish Oil or Turmeric? For the best, the most effective chance of results, the answer is both. Fish Oil and Turmeric can act as helpful allies in your battle towards joint pain relief! It is really important to understand that your pain can be improved, and with that your training at UFIT!

What happens when you take fish oil every day? ›

While generally safe, getting too much fish oil can increase your risk of bleeding and might affect your immune response. It's not clear whether fish oil is safe for people who are allergic to seafood. Take fish oil supplements under a doctor's supervision.

What oil gets rid of inflammation? ›

The National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy also lists many oils that may reduce inflammation, including:
  • roman chamomile.
  • ginger.
  • helichrysum.
  • patchouli.

Is 1000 mg of fish oil a day too much? ›

To maintain a healthy heart, be sure you're getting enough EPA and DHA. Up to 1,000 mg of total EPA and DHA per day is recommended for people who have coronary heart disease and are at risk of having a heart attack ( 24 , 25 ).

What medications should not be taken with fish oil? ›

Medications that can potentially interact with fish oil include blood-thinners such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), and clopidogrel (Plavix) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen. If you take these medications, consult your doctor before taking fish oil.

What are the symptoms of too much omega-3? ›

Here are 8 potential side effects that can occur when you consume too much fish oil or omega-3 fatty acids.
  • High Blood Sugar. Share on Pinterest. ...
  • Bleeding. ...
  • Low Blood Pressure. ...
  • Diarrhea. ...
  • Acid Reflux. ...
  • Stroke. ...
  • Vitamin A Toxicity. ...
  • Insomnia.

Do cardiologists recommend fish oil? ›

Although fish oil supplements don't lower the rate of heart attack or stroke, they may be recommended in some situations. Specifically, EPA and DHA can be used to help lower triglycerides in people with very high triglycerides (over 500 mg/dL), who are at risk for complications such as pancreatitis.

What is a natural statin? ›

Natural statins refer to supplements or food components that may help reduce bad cholesterol levels. They may provide an option to support your medical treatment plan. Natural statins may include plant sterols, garlic, omega-3 fatty acids, and red yeast rice.

Does fish oil help keep your arteries clear? ›

They reduce triglycerides, a type of fat in your blood. They reduce the risk of developing an irregular heart beat (arrhythmias). They slow the buildup of plaque, a substance comprising fat, cholesterol, and calcium, which hardens and blocks your arteries.

What's the difference between fish oil and Omega fish oil? ›

Is Omega-3 and Fish Oil the Same Thing? While they're often confused as being the same thing, there is a difference between fish oil and omega-3. The biggest distinction is that omega-3 is a nutrient, whereas fish oil is one source of that nutrient. Omega-3 refers to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Are all brands of fish oil the same? ›

A major difference between inferior fish oils and superior fish oils is the source. The fact is, all fish oils can actually be separated into several different types, or grades, dependent on the source of the oil. These grades vary dramatically in quality, consistency, safety and effectiveness.

What is better fish oil or Omega XL? ›

Fish Oil has an average rating of 6.0 out of 10 from a total of 18 ratings on Drugs.com. 47% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 29% reported a negative effect. OmegaXL has an average rating of 5.5 out of 10 from a total of 2 ratings on Drugs.com.

Is liquid or pill fish oil better? ›

With liquids, there's no capsule that has to be digested before the contents are absorbed by the body. This means liquid fish oil offers enhanced bioavailability compared to taking fish oil supplements in capsule form.

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