The Truth about Fish Oil Supplements: What you need to know about Rancidity

Are you taking fish oil supplements? You might want to check what's really in those capsules. Recent research has revealed some shocking truths about the quality of omega-3 supplements, and we're here to help you make informed choices about?the kinds of supplements that you formulate and consume.

THE ALARMING REALITY OF FISH OIL SUPPLEMENTS

FORGET EVERYTHING YOU THOUGHT YOU KNEW ABOUT FISH OIL SUPPLEMENTS

A groundbreaking analysis of 72 omega-3 supplements in the US has revealed something that should make us all stop and think: 68% of fish oil supplements were found to be rancid. Yes, you read that right - the majority of flavored fish oil supplements might not be giving you the benefits you're paying for, and in fact damaging your health instead of enhancing it.?

WHY DOES THIS MATTER?

Just like we always stress the importance of quality nutrients and healthy fats in your diet, the quality of your supplements matters enormously. When fish oil becomes rancid:

• It loses its beneficial properties
• The oxidized oils might not provide the health benefits you're investing in
• Oxidized oils are highly inflammatory
• Those artificial flavorings and the capsule that contains the fish oil might be masking the problem!

HOW TO CHOOSE AND STORE YOUR FISH OIL SUPPLEMENTS

Here's what you need to know to protect your investment and your health:

STORAGE IS CRUCIAL

Just as we tell you to store your fish, coconut oil and MCT oil properly, fish oil and omega 3 dha Algae Oil need special care:

• Keep them in the fridge
• Never stockpile - buy only what you'll use in?30 days
• Avoid exposure to heat and humidity

THE FRESHNESS TEST

Here's a simple hack - crack open a capsule:

• If it smells fresh, you're good to go
• If it smells rancid or extremely fishy, bin it!
• Trust your nose - it's evolved to protect you from oxidised fats
• Even better, just get O3Smoothies Algae derived omega 3 fatty acids as algae is far more stable than fish oil, it's tastier and it's more sustainable.?
• Or formulate with algae derived Omega 3 DHA and EPA

BUYING TIPS

• Don't be tempted by bargain prices - quality matters!
• Check manufacturing and expiration dates
• Have a look at the Omega 3 DHA content. Often supplements only contain Omega 3 ALA which has only a 5% conversion rate to the DHA.?

THE REAL FOOD ALTERNATIVE

Just as we advocate eating real, whole foods on?any diet, the same applies to omega-3s. The research suggests that eating actual fish and supplementing with algae omega 3 is more beneficial than taking fish oil capsules. Consider incorporating:

• Algae: An algae based Omega 3 supplement, such as O3Smoothies
• Wild-caught fatty fish
• Sardines
• Mackerel
• Salmon

SUPPLEMENTS DONE RIGHT

If you do choose to supplement (and many of us do!), remember:

• Quality over price
• Proper storage is essential
• Avoid fish oil capsules!

THE BOTTOM LINE

Just as we're careful about choosing quality nutrients and fats for a healthy lifestyle, we need to be equally discerning about our supplements. Don't let rancid fish oil sabotage your health journey.

Want to learn more about making the right supplement choices? Contact us at Virun today.

Recommended Reading:

• The Supplement Handbook by Mark Moyad
• Eat Wild by Jo Robinson
• The Omega Principle by Paul Greenberg

Remember: Quality matters! Whether it's the food your eat or your daily MCT oil or your omega-3 supplements, investing in high-quality products is investing in your health.

Philip Bromley Peter Hoosier Benjamin Kelly Blayne Nuccio Marcos Moran Cabrera Sara Fenn