Omega & Fish Oils

Omega 3 for heart, brain, joints and pregnancy: Eskimo-3, Seven Seas, Proceive and cod liver oil, chosen for the EPA and DHA content that actually matters. Pharmacist advice on who benefits and how much to take.

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Omega 3: what to look for

Read the EPA and DHA, not the fish oil

A 1000 mg fish oil capsule might contain only 300 mg of the omega 3 fats EPA and DHA that do the work. Compare products on EPA plus DHA per daily dose. Around 500 mg a day covers general health; 1000 mg or more is used for joints and heart health, and the Eskimo-3 Extra and Seven Seas Extra Strength reach those levels in fewer capsules.

Who benefits most

  • People who eat oily fish less than twice a week.
  • Joint stiffness: higher doses over three months can reduce stiffness and the need for painkillers.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: DHA supports the baby's brain and eye development. Proceive Omega 3 is designed for this.
  • Children who refuse fish: Eskimo Kids in liquid or chewable form.

Cod liver oil versus fish oil

Cod liver oil adds vitamins A and D, which is useful in winter but means it should not be combined with other vitamin A sources, and it is not for pregnancy. Plain fish oil is the safer everyday choice.

Quality

Eskimo-3 is a stable, purified oil with a long record of low oxidation, which is why it does not repeat on you. Keep any fish oil out of sunlight and use within the open-bottle period. A rancid smell means bin it.

Check with us if you take warfarin or other blood thinners, or if you have surgery planned. High-dose omega 3 can increase bleeding tendency.

Common questions about omega & fish oils

How much omega 3 should I take a day?

About 500 mg of combined EPA and DHA for general health, and 1000 to 2000 mg if you are taking it for joints or on advice for heart health. Check the EPA and DHA figures on the label rather than the total fish oil.

Is cod liver oil the same as omega 3?

Cod liver oil contains omega 3 but also vitamins A and D. It is fine in winter for adults who are not pregnant, but plain fish oil is better if you already take a multivitamin or vitamin D, and in pregnancy.

Why does fish oil repeat on me?

Usually oxidised oil or taking it on an empty stomach. Take it with a meal, keep it away from heat and light, and try a purified brand such as Eskimo-3, which is formulated to be stable.

Written and reviewed by the pharmacist team at Laois Pharmacy, Portlaoise. General information only, not a substitute for advice about your own health. Ask us in store or on WhatsApp.