Fish oil supplements are widely praised for their health benefits, from supporting heart health to reducing inflammation. However, not all fish oil is created equal. If you’re buying your fish oil from a retail store or an MLM program, there’s a good chance it might not be providing the benefits you expect—and in some cases, it could be doing more harm than good. Here are three key reasons to be cautious when choosing a fish oil supplement.
1. Is Your Fish Oil Synthetic?
Many store-bought fish oils contain synthetic (man-made) ingredients that provide little to no real health benefits. Synthetic supplements are often used to cut costs, but they lack the natural structure that your body can properly absorb and use. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to determine whether a supplement is synthetic, and even many retailers don’t know what they’re selling.
How to Avoid Synthetic Fish Oil:
If the price seems too low, it may be synthetic.
Look for fish oil labeled as natural triglyceride form rather than ethyl ester form (which is often synthetic and harder to absorb).
Buy from reputable sources with third-party testing.
2. Has Your Fish Oil Been Dyed?
Some manufacturers add artificial dyes to fish oil to make it look more appealing. High-quality fish oil does not need added color—it should be naturally light and clear. If a supplement has been altered for aesthetic reasons, it raises concerns about what else might be in it.
How to Spot High-Quality Fish Oil:
It should be light in color and transparent.
Avoid products with artificial colorants or unclear ingredient lists.
Stick to trusted brands that prioritize purity and transparency.
3. Has Your Fish Oil Been Heated or Gone Rancid?
Fish oil is a delicate, organic substance that must be stored properly to retain its health benefits. If fish oil is exposed to excessive heat—whether during processing, storage, or shipping—it can go rancid. Consuming rancid fish oil may lead to digestive discomfort and negate its supposed benefits.
Simple Test to Check for Rancid Fish Oil:
Shake the bottle: If the capsules rattle freely, they are more likely to be fresh.
If they stick together or clump, the oil may have been exposed to heat and could be spoiled.
What Fish Oil Should You Take?
At Johns Creek Chiropractic and Wellness Center, we recommend Metagenics Omega-3 Fish Oil, which has been trusted for nearly 20 years. Unlike many commercial brands, Metagenics ensures that its fish oil is pure, properly stored, and free from synthetic ingredients or dyes. You can safely purchase their products online, knowing that they meet high-quality standards.
Final Thoughts
Fish oil can be a powerful supplement when sourced correctly, but poor-quality options can do more harm than good. By choosing a reputable brand and being mindful of synthetic additives, artificial dyes, and improper storage, you can ensure you’re getting the full benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.
Stay tuned for our next post on the benefits of fish oil!