All products are independently selected by our editors.
If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Its about as much of a staple asprobioticsormagnesium.

Courtesy of brands / Gabrielle Langdon
Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which offer lots of potential health benefits.
And these supplements come with some downsides, including literal fishy burps (ugh) and potential heart issues.
(Ironic, since so many folks take fish oil supplements for the sake of their hearts.)

As mentioned, fish oil supplements contain concentrated amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.
(Try saying all that three times fast!)
Meanwhile, EPA has been linked toreduced inflammationand potentiallyimproved depression symptoms.

Heres the catch: Its unclear whether fish oilcapsules,however, can confer these benefits effectively.
Nor do omega-3 supplements slow theprogression of macular degeneration.
Fish oil supplements arent for everyone, saysLauren Manaker, RDN, LD, CLEC, CPT.

People should take them under the guidance of their health care provider.
Are there any risks or side effects to taking fish oil supplements?
There are definitely some side effects to taking fish oil supplements, experts say.

Which is better, omega-3 or fish oil?
Grasso recommends people eat fatty fishwhich is rich in omega-3sat least twice a week.
Shapiro says salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, and anchovies are all great sources of omega-3s.

Should I take fish oil or krill oil?
Your body mayabsorb the omega-3s from krill more easilythan those from fish oil, Shapiro adds.
Are there vegan alternatives to fish oil supplements?

Just likevegan collagen, there are vegan subs for fish oil supplements.
you could get DHA and EPA from these supplements just like you could from fish oil.
A small, older study found that the DHA in algae oil supplements wasabout as bioavailable as cooked fish.

Should you take fish oil pills every day?
Its generally recommended to take with meals for enhance absorption and reduce any potential GI discomfort, she adds.
Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to also aid in digestion and absorption.

Here are some more features to look for on the label of your fish oil of choice:













