If you are taking fish oil supplements chances are you have heard something about the concern of mercury poisoning. This is creating some confusion among people who want to do the best for their health but are uncertain about how to pick the best type of supplement. It turns out there is a lot to think about, even beyond the mercury issue.
Fish oil obviously comes from fish. Yet, where the fish come from is a major concern not only when taking supplements but when consuming it as a food source as well.[youtube:_3K6yQ9RGDw;What's The Correct:[link:Fish Oil Dosage]?;http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3K6yQ9RGDw&feature=related]
If you assume that fish are just taken fresh from the ocean you may be surprised to learn that there are fish farms these days. Fish that come from these “farms” are more likely to have impurities which can be passed on to your body through your supplements.
The exact type of fish that the oil comes from is another concern. Some fish are known to have higher levels of mercury and other metals that can be harmful to the human body. For example, many people concerned with their health will eat salmon over tuna because it has much lower mercury content.
Knowing exactly where the fish used for your supplement came from is a big comfort. Cod liver oil is the best you can purchase, but it can run a little higher than some other supplements.
The purity of the oil is a major concern. You don’t have to spend big bucks to get a good supplement, but doing a little research into different brands can help guide you toward something that is more pure. You can’t assume that the cheapest brand on the shelf at your local store is going to be as healthy as one that may be just slightly higher priced.
To maximize your health benefits, look around for a 100% cod liver oil supplement in liquid form. You may have to spend a little more money for this and it doesn’t have a really great taste, but it well worth the mental and physical benefits.
If you are concerned about the taste of a liquid form or want to get your children to take it without a fight, consider mixing it into smoothies or milkshakes. Children will not even know it is in there! You can take frozen fruit and juice and add it into the blender for a very simple smoothie that is healthy for everyone.
Most people do not eat fish three or four times a week, which means most do not get the fish oil they need from their diet. There are considerable mental and physical benefits that have been proven to come with taking fish oil supplements on a daily basis. This includes children!