The Certificate of Analysis or COA is an evaluation conducted by an independent laboratory to check for contaminants, oxidation and omega3 content. If all manufacturers posted the result of that analysis on their websites, it would be easy to compare. But, most manufacturers fear what you would learn.
Mercury, dioxins and PCBs are some of the things that they don't want you to know about. Oxidized or rancid oils are another.
Oxidation or spoilage begins as soon as the fish are pulled out of the water. If they are not properly stored or if they are left on the dock to rot in the sun, the level of oxidation becomes extremely high. Oxidation is responsible for those fishy tasting burps that you get. The best fish oil supplements don't cause them. The manufacturer guarantees it.
Some manufacturers believe that a little bit of heavy metals like mercury and cancer-causing dioxins won't hurt you. But, in the purest oils, there are no detectable levels of those contaminants. The COA proves it.
When it comes to the omega3 content, the COA will show how much total omega3s are present in each capsule, as well as individual amounts of DHA, EPA and DPA. DHA is essential for the growth and functional development of the human brain. It is required for maintenance of normal brain function in adults. Its absence in the diet leads to learning deficits and depression.
DHA deficiencies are also associated with Attention Deficit Disorder, cystic fibrosis, aggressive behavior, cognitive decline and Alzheimer's. It has a positive effect on high blood pressure, arthritis, type II diabetes and some types of cancer. So, obviously, the best fish oil supplements contain large amounts of DHA.
EPA has proven benefits in heart disease and inflammatory disorders. DPA is believed to contribute to overall cardiovascular health. Research is currently ongoing concerning these other two essential fatty acids. But, the benefits of DHA have been well understood for quite some time.
The best fish oil supplements provide at least 280mg of DHA per capsule, at least 120mg of EPA and at least 50mg of DPA. The total omega 3 content in 1000mg of oil is 500mg. Some manufacturers do not list the omega 3 content and most do not break it down into individual omega3s. Of those that do, only a few have an independent COA to back up their statements.
The benefits to your health will be numerous if you select an excellent supplement. One of the first things that you should notice is an improved ability to concentrate. If you've been feeling a little depressed, you should notice an improvement in your mood. If your joints feel a little achy, you should notice greater flexibility.
Those are just some of the things that people have noticed when they buy and take the best fish oil supplements. Now, you know how to find yours.
The Purity and Freshness is Guaranteed
Independent laboratory analysis has shown that some oils are contaminated with mercury, dioxins and PCBs. PCBs are a class of chemicals that have been banned, but they are persistent in the environment, particularly in our oceans.
We are already exposed to enough toxins on a daily basis. We don't want them in our supplements. Manufacturers that care about their customers realize that. They guarantee purity and they prove it by posting a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an independent laboratory on their websites. The certificate should say "not detected", when referring to contaminants.
The COA will also indicate how fresh the oils were before they were encapsulated. This is done by measuring the amount of oxidation. There will always be some amount of oxidation, but it should not exceed 17 MEQ/kg. The best fish oil will be well below that level of oxidation.
The manufacture can also guarantee freshness by promising that you will not have any fishy tasting burps. Many people complain about that, but it is not actually due to the supplement. It is due to high degrees of oxidation.
The Omega3 Content is high
The COA will also show the total amount of omega3s that are present in the capsule, as well as the individual amounts of DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid), EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DPA (Docosapentaenoic acid).
The best fish oil provides 500mg of total omega3s per 1000mg of triglycerides. Each of the omega3s is important to the health of the heart and the circulatory system. But, one of them is most important, especially when it comes to the brain.
The DHA Content is high
The DHA content should be at least 250-280mg per capsule. This is the amount that has been used in studies concerning depression, arthritis, skin conditions, immune system function, type II diabetes and other health issues. Studies indicate that the most benefits are seen when all of the different omega3s are included. So, it is important that a supplement provide all of them.
Most brands have a high amount of EPA, but very little DHA and DPA is rarely referred to at all. The best fish oil provides at least 50mg of DPA, because it is believed that the nutrient contributes to good cardiovascular health.
The Anti-inflammatory Activity has Been Proven
Every brand probably has some degree of anti-inflammatory activity. The question is how much. It is possible to have the anti-inflammatory activity measured scientifically. The better manufacturers have gone to the effort of having that testing conducted and they post the results on their websites.
The best fish oil has at least as much anti-inflammatory activity as aspirin. For people that take a lot of pain meds, that's really good news, especially for the liver. Now, you have the info that you need to continue shopping.
Now that you know this information you will be able to spot the manufactures that are only out there to make a fast buck. You will know the manufactures that take great pride in producing a fish oil product that meets your expectations.
Both Valerie Rosenbaum & Sherman Chambliss are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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