Boy did I learn a valuable lesson. Fish oil purity is determined by measuring contaminant levels and the level of oxidation. We can expect that there will be some level of contamination in the parts per billion or parts per trillion, simply because some of the things that we measure for are naturally occurring substances, such as lead, arsenic and mercury.
We can also assume that there will be some level of oxidation, simply because the oils are not processed immediately after the catch is pulled in. We can only hope that the level of contaminants and the level of oxidation will be as low as conceivably possible.
If the level of contaminants is very low, in the parts per billion or trillion, there is no risk associated with consuming the oils. If the level of oxidation is very low, there is no risk of fishy tasting burps or increasing our intake of free radical molecules.
Supplement manufacturers are able to test each batch of oils for contaminants and freshness, but many of them do not, because they are not required to. As a general rule, you can be more confident about fish oil purity than you can about eating salmon, cod or another species, because it is not possible to test each one for contamination, without rendering it inedible, as long as the supplement manufacturer tests each batch.
In order to let their consumers know that each batch is tested, some manufacturers publish a copy of the laboratory report on their website. Referred to as a COA or certificate of analysis, it is your guide to choosing a safe supplement. If the brand that you are thinking about buying does not post a COA, then choose another brand.
The COA will give you more information that that having to do with fish oil purity. It will also list the total omega-3s that will be found in each capsule, as well as the amount of individual omega-3s; Docosahexaenoic acid and Eicosapentaenoic acid or DHA and EPA.
The average capsule contains 1000mg of oils, but only a portion of that is omega-3 fat. In the better brands, a minimum of 50% of the fat is omega-3 fat.
Most brands contain more EPA than DHA. That’s because most species of fish have a higher level of EPA than DHA. We need both of those fatty acids in our diet, but research indicates that DHA is the most important.
Fish oil purity is a particularly important consideration in some cases. If contaminants are detected, the manufacturer can use a process called molecular distillation to remove the impurities. But, molecular distillation also seems to have some effect on the anti-inflammatory activity of the natural triglycerides.
DHA is of great importance to our brains. Both, EPA and DHA, as well as another called DPA are important to our hearts. The natural anti-inflammatory activity is important to every cell of our bodies, because inflammation is a cause of cellular aging.
- The company website should provide that information.
Laurel Cohen is a strong advocate of natural health in all its forms: skin care, supplementation, and farm fresh foods. She enjoys introducing people to the best natural products she can find and uses herself daily. Visit her site http://www.omega-3-for-health.com to learn about the omega 3 fish oils Laurel uses daily for optimal health. Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/the-importance-of-fish-oil-purity-1352718.html
