Want to add natural supplements to your diet? Confused between fish oil, krill oil, cod liver oil, and algae oil as the source of omega-3? You have come to the right place! In this article, we will let you know all you need to know about these oil supplements!
Without further ado, let’s get started!
Our Overall #1 Rated Pick
- Vegan, sourced from algae
- Non-GMO
- GMP Certified
- No mercury, no toxins
Performance Lab has made a name for itself as a leading brand that supplies the best vitamins in the market. Omega-3 is their marquee product in the said category. Usually, fish oils leave a bad aftertaste and have concerns regarding contaminants and toxic compounds.
However, Omega-3 clears all those concerns by providing a safe and reliable fusion of EPA and DHA directly from the source, that being Algae. Being an all-natural source of essential fatty acids, Omega-3 is the safest alternative there is to fish oils and is devoid of the usual after-effects like reflux and stomach problems.
Best Natural Oil Supplements – Comparison Table
Best Natural Oil Supplements- Product Reviews
In this section, we review the Top 10 Natural Oil Supplements
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Performance Lab has made a name for itself as a leading brand that supplies the best vitamins in the market. Omega-3 is their marquee product in the said category. Usually, fish oils leave a bad aftertaste and have concerns regarding contaminants and toxic compounds.
However, Omega-3 clears all those concerns by providing a safe and reliable fusion of EPA and DHA directly from the source, that being Algae. Being an all-natural source of essential fatty acids, Omega-3 is the safest alternative there is to fish oils and is devoid of the usual after-effects like reflux and stomach problems.
The product acts to enhance the cell membranes and accounts for the healthy functioning of the heart, brain, and eyes. It promotes good cardiovascular function and supports muscle recovery. The best thing about Omega-3 is the balanced 2:1 ratio of EPA and DHA which promulgates balanced immune activity in the body.
The ingredients are non-GMO and the algae are sourced from the brand’s state-of-the-art indoor facilities that are GMP certified. Tests are conducted to keep the product free from mercury and other toxins and to deliver the promise of the brand being eco-friendly.
PROS
- Vegan
- Non-GMO
- GMP Certified
- No mercury, no toxins
- Tested for banned substances
- Soy-fee
- Gluten-free
CONS
- Slight aftertaste
Nature Made Supplements has cemented its name as one of the leading manufacturers of Omega-3 fish oils. Fish oils have become the go-to supplements for many people who continuously face brain and heart-related issues.
The intake of Omega-3 via supplements is more efficient as compared to eating fish as it saves the body from the intake of irrelevant compounds in the fish. Heart problems have become common in middle-aged people, whereas depression and anxiety problems have also peaked during the COVID pandemic. In situations like these, Nature Made fish oil is the safe harbor for many people.
In addition to the above advantages, the product also helps boost eye health as well as early brain health during pregnancy. At least 250mg of the EPA and DHA (Omega-3 fatty acids) is required per day for a healthy brain and heart functioning.
Incite provides customers with 360mg of EPA and 240mg of DHA diet intake per day. The product is made in GMP-certified labs and is duly tested during and after manufacture by local and independent labs.
PROS
- Simple capsule intake
- Vegan-friendly
- No additives
- GMP Certified
CONS
- Aftertaste and smell
Nature’s Bounty is another respectable brand that has been manufacturing Omega-3 fish oils to cater to customers. Their product packs maximum potency in the 1000mg variant. It guarantees 180mg of EPA and 120mg of DHA, which is more than enough for the healthy functioning of the brain and heart.
The odorless soft-gel capsules act as premium-grade contributors of EPA and DHA for daily diets. The product is made from 100% organic and high-standard fish oils. There is no danger of reflux or stomach problems, which is a normal side-effect of most fish oils nowadays.
The brand delivers quality as promised with a GMP certification. They use a purification process that involves distilling the oil multiple times to remove any heavy metals or contaminants. Various kinds of filters and refining procedures, including active carbon, are used to maintain the quality of the product.
The product is further validated by undergoing tests in local and third-party labs.
PROS
- Soft-gel capsule intake
- Vegetarian
- Maximum potency
- High absorption rate
- GMP Certified
- No aftertaste
CONS
- None as such
Seven Seas is a UK-based supplement brand based under the P&G banner and ranks amongst the top-notch suppliers of Cod liver oils. It has a dedicated customer base owing to its exceptional quality and top-class customer service.
The product is rich in DHA fatty acid, which is also found in the human brain and is responsible for cognitive functions. A generous supply of DHA via the cod liver oil promotes a faster learning ability, increased concentration levels, and improved memory.
The product can prove very beneficial for children in their developing years. The DHA also aids in improving the immune system in addition to having cognitive benefits. Completely organic constituents make up the product which is obtained from reliable sources.
The product is favorable for vegetarians owing to its all-natural ingredients. There is no doubt about the quality owing to the GMP certification of the brand. Moreover, products are duly verified via local and independent lab tests during and after the manufacturing process.
PROS
- Vegetarian friendly
- DHA rich
- GMP Certified
- No additives
- Tested and verified
CONS
- None as such
Higher Nature is another respectable competitor in the fish oil market. It has grown its customer base over time, owing to its top-class product range and good customer service. Omega-3 fish oils are the key for people who require intake of EPA and DHA fatty acids without incorporating fish into their diet.
This product packs the kick with a fusion of both EPA and DHA that is required for a healthy heart and brain. Higher Nature’s oils are sourced from wild sardines, mackerel, and anchovies that are sustained in reliable environments.
The brand ethically sources the Omega-3 to erase any doubts of toxin contamination and keeps its promise of not compromising on quality. Moreover, a gentle purification process is utilized to retain the quality and freshness of the product.
The product aids in boosting the cardiovascular function of the body while also providing cognitive support and nourishing the eyes. The product is safe and reliable, owing to its GMP certification. The finished product is carefully screened for any pollutants or toxins. This makes sure that customers receive a safe and sustainable product.
PROS
- GMP Certified
- Tested for banned substances
- Screened for pollutants
- Reliable ingredients
- Purified for use
CONS
- None as such
Although fish oil has become a popular supplement. Some people still hesitate from using it due to the aftertaste and other effects. To cater to this customer market, Bronson has Antarctic Krill Oil. The krill oil contains all the vitamins and minerals of fish oils and with the addition of Astaxanthin.
It is a carotenoid pigment that enhances the chemical structure of Omega-3 fatty acids and gives the oil a red color. Krill oil stands out as it provides all the benefits of fish oil without any harsh taste or smell. Bronson has formulated the product straight from the cold waters of the Antarctic.
It is available in many forms like pills, capsules, and bulk liquid. The product offers more strength owing to the Phospholipid Omega-3 complex. The product undergoes precision testing after manufacture to clear it of any contaminants and preserve the quality.
PROS
- GMP Certified
- Tested for banned substances
- Extra Strength
- No harsh taste
- Purified for use
CONS
- None as such
ProHealth Supplements is yet another renowned brand that supplies vitamins and supplements. Its major entry in the krill oil market is its Superba Krill Oil. The oil is guaranteed to be 100% pure and is sourced from the Antarctic krill themselves.
The Euphausia Superba species is utilized due to its richness in EPA and DHA with the addition of a more stable nature. The oil is laced with antioxidants that help regulate good cardiovascular health and keep the bones and joints in good condition.
It maintains blood sugar levels and hormones whilst keeping bad cholesterol at bay. Superba Krill oil also does not leave behind the fishy aftertaste, something that plagues many fish oil users. The product is devoid of any bulking agents or synthetic fillers and is duly tested and verified before it hits the shelves in the market.
PROS
- GMP Certified
- Tested for banned substances
- No harsh taste
- Purified for use
CONS
- None as such
NOW Supplements have justified its ranking amongst the top vitamin suppliers owing to its excellent quality product range and prioritized customer service. Krill Oil is a more efficient alternative to the rather harsh-smelling fish oil.
It promulgates healthy blood pressure levels and supports both the nervous and immune systems. It boasts high levels of antioxidants, EPA, and DHA and does not cause any indigestion problems. It contains Astaxanthin, which promotes healthy skin as well as supports eyesight and brain function.
It also helps in regulating the cholesterol levels in the body. The product is free from gluten and soy. The manufacturing process takes place in GMP-certified facilities with proper testing to validate the quality of the product.
PROS
- GMP Certified
- Non-GMO
- No harsh taste
- Purified for use
- Soy-free
- Gluten-free
CONS
- None as such
Igennus Healthcare Nutrition has carefully formulated this product directly from algae grown in their controlled environments. It is an effective eco-friendly and sustainable choice that has been received well, especially by the vegan customer base.
Having a 50% concentration, this algae oil is more effective than fish and krill oil. It contains natural triglycerides which have a greater absorption rate in the body. It comes packed with a balanced 2:1 ratio of EPA and DHA, delivering 400mg and 200mg respectively.
It also contains additional antioxidant support in the form of Astaxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, and Vitamin E which have their benefits. The product comes in the form of small easy-to-swallow capsules. The vegan capsule shell is effective for split dosing.
The product is manufactured in GMP-certified facilities and is devoid of any allergens or toxins. The thing that sets it apart from other supplements is the component of algae, which makes it a pure and eco-friendly option.
PROS
- GMP Certified
- Eco-friendly
- Allergen-free
- Antioxidant support
- Verified and tested
CONS
- None as such
Vegan Vitality has formulated this supplement especially for people who are on a vegan diet. Their perfectly balanced fusion of EPA and DHA is directly sourced from Algae. This makes it a sustainable and environment-friendly option as well.
The recommended daily dose of 4 capsules supplies 400mg of DHA, which is more than enough to provide support to the heart, brain, and eyes. It promulgates a healthy cardiovascular function while also enhancing the nervous and immune systems of the body.
The brand facilitates third-party and precision testing to validate the authenticity of the products. It also provides customers with a 365-day empty-bottle money back guarantee.
PROS
- GMP Certified
- Eco-friendly
- Allergen-free
- Verified and tested
CONS
- None as such
Fish Oil, Krill oil, Cod Liver Oil or Algae Oil – Buying Guide
Fish Oil
Fish oil is probably the most well-known natural supplement out of all the oils we have on our list today. Fish oils or more commonly known as omega 3 oils supplements are an important contributor to health as they provide you with omega 3 fatty acids.
Fish oil is basically a type of fat extracted from different types of fishes such as tuna, anchovies, and Mackerel. According to the WHO, an average healthy human should consume around 1 to 2 portions of fish every day.
This is, however, not possible as a lot of people don't like to eat seafood that much. This is where omega 3 supplement comes into play. The supplements will be able to help you get all the nutrients every day without having to consume fish.
Potency
The potency of a supplement or a drug is an important factor to consider as they will tell us if and how the product will be effective. Starting from the route, all the way to the action of the supplements.
Luckily, Omega 3 has high absorption in the body and is seen to be really part taking in the metabolic processes of the consumer as well. So, omega 3 really sinks into the body and shows the result.
A common omega 3 supplement comes in the form of a capsule and each capsule contains around 1100 mg of omega 3 with other additives with a 2:1 amount of DHA and EPA.
Benefits
Fish oils have a lot of benefits. Following are a little bit of the well-known benefits of fish oils
Immune system
As mentioned above, omega 3 has been shown to really affect inflammation and help reduce and soothe the site. They prevent the cytokines from creating excessive inflammation in response to infection and help keep the swelling in control.
Omega 3 has also been seen to help with redirecting functioning but the entire process is not known as of now.
Skin
One of the most underrated benefits of fish oil is its effects on the skin. Omega 3 has a lot of skin benefits, including balancing the sebum on your face, hydrating your face, and protects your skin against acne and fine lines, and wrinkle formation.
Heart
Omega 3 has been seen to help the blood cholesterol and it has also been seen to help reduce the amount of low-density protein in the blood which eventually leads to heart diseases shortly. The build up in the arteries and also the artery walls, both have been seen to be cleared up and strengthened by the regular and healthy intake of omega 3.
Cod Liver Oil
Now, you may be thinking, aren’t fish oil and cod liver oil the same thing? One of the biggest differences between these 2 oils are, they are both taken from a sea creature. They do have a lot of differences in terms of benefits and workability.
Just like fish oil, cod liver oil has a high amount of omega 3. We, as humans do not make omega 3 on our own. Hence why you need to incorporate fish or cod liver oil into your regular diet. Given how a lot of people don’t, relying on such supplements is the best way to go.
Benefits
Cod liver oil brings about a lot of health benefits. Arguably the most compared to most fish oils. Cod liver oil has a relatively high amount of EPA and DHA along with hefty amounts of Vitamin A and D. Other than that, cod liver oil has also been seen to have amazing anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Bones
Cod liver oil, due to the higher amounts of vitamin D, has been used as a regular medication given to kids suffering from rickets. Rickets is a condition of bone deformity, usually affecting kids. This bone deformity condition is caused due to the lack of Vitamin D.
A higher amount of vitamin D and other nutrients in the oils make it an incredible supplement for anyone with bone issues. Cod liver oils have a great role in preserving and rejuvenating bone health. Other than bone health, cod liver oil has been also used as a pain reliever, regarding joint pain.
Arthritis patients are usually recommended to use Cod liver oil as it helps with both the pain and the healing of the joint. Using the anti-inflammatory properties, cod liver oil can help soothe the compromised cartilage and bring pain relief.
Blood circulation
Cod liver oil has been seen to improve and promote better blood flow and circulation by reducing the amount of plaque buildup in the arteries. A research paper published in 1986 covered the possibility and proof of effects of cod liver oil on the arteries.
The effects of coronary artery disease were seen in the animal models along with the effects of Cod liver oil to help the condition. Fewer disease symptoms were seen among the animals who were given Cod liver oil as compared to those who were not given the supplements.
Cod liver oil is arguably the best type of fish oil supplement, as it has the remarkable combination of all the necessary ingredients that are a must for a well-balanced diet. Cod liver oil tackles all the bone-related issues such as arthritis and rickets while also tackling other issues such as heart disease, eyesight problems, and even skin issues.
The difference in source, benefits, and effects between fish oil and cod liver oil might be there, but they both are a worthy supplement that is amazing for your health.
Krill Oil
Krill is a tiny shrimp-like sea creature that has a high content of protein and omega 3. Krill oil, usually extracted from krill itself, has a bunch of other sources as well such as whale sharks and Mantas.
What sets this oil different from its other peers is quite possibly the list of benefits and fatty acid content. This particular oil has a lot of beneficial powers. Most notable being the blood flow and integrity.
Benefits
Krill oil brings about a bunch of benefits as compared to other oils. The list ranges from fighting inflammation to dealing with period pains. Let's take a look at these benefits one by one now.
Inflammation
This krill oil owes its anti-inflammatory property to the high content of omega 3 found in the oils. Whilst a lot of fish oils have omega 3, what sets krill oil different from the rest is the way the omega of krill oil is easier on the body. This omega 3 is easy to digest and quick to effect. There are a lot of different studies of this oil that support the possibility of krill oil being an excellent anti-inflammatory agent.
A test-tube study conducted to see the effects of krill oil as an anti-inflammatory agent showed that the krill oil has all the power to reduce the amount of inflammation-causing molecules.
Another trial study was conducted to see the extent of this oil's anti-inflammatory properties. 90 volunteering patients were gathered, all suffering from some sort of chronic inflammation. A 1-month trial was conducted where the level of inflammation was seen within the 2 groups of volunteers, one was given a 300 mg dose of krill oil while the other groups weren't.
The group consuming krill oil was seen to have around 30% reduced inflammation in the span of only a month.
Heart health
We know already how beneficial EPA and DHA are for the overall health of the heart. This makes Krill oil a great supplement for a healthy heart. Krill oil offers you a road to a better heart by reducing the number of triglycerides and other blood fats.
Another such study conducted in 2016 showed that krill oils had a significant upper hand at raising the amount of HDL cholesterol as compared to the other oils. A significant decrease was also seen in the inflammation level, along with reducing the number of triglycerides in the blood.
PMS
Several fish oils have been tested and used to ease the period pain and reduce the chances and symptoms of PMS. In some cases, it was reported that period pain was reduced to the stage where pain relieving medications were not needed.
Krill oil is getting increasingly well-known and well-loved throughout the years. People have also claimed krill oil to be the best alternative to fish oils. With the wider array of benefits that krill oil has to offer, any other oil has yet to come quite as close to being considered a great competitor.
Algae Oil
Moving on to the last, but definitely not the least, Algae oil. As the name implies, Algae oil, as the name implies, is the oil extracted from the algae. As disgusting as it sounds, algae has been known for the great number of health benefits it prevails.
One of the main reasons for its popularity in the mainstream is the source. For anyone who doesn't wish to consume fish or any other related sea creature, Algae oil is an amazing alternative. From Algae oils, you get all the benefits of nutrients from a vegan-friendly source.
Benefits
The best thing about Algae oil is not only the amazing benefits that most fish oils have but also a slightly wider array of benefits, all while being cruelty-free and vegan friendly.
Depression
Depression is a very serious mental health condition and has a lot of different affecting factors. One of the noted symptoms of depression is the lack of DHA and EPA in the blood. This symptom can easily be rectified by the use of Omega 3 supplements.
Algae oil, of course, offers a great and tasteful amount of omega3. A survey study conducted in 2007, showed that among 150 thousand entrees, the individuals who had more omega 3 in their diets had lesser symptoms of depression altogether.
Algae oil is the best option for people who do not wish to consume fish.
Eye health
Algae oil is the best ever source of omega 3 makes it ideal for eye health. Dry eyes or eye exhaustion can really be rectified with the help of omega 3 as it can help keep the eye moist and wet and prevent unwanted loss of eye moisture and tears.
My fellow lens wearers will know how deeply annoying the constant eye itch can be. The lens tends to get itchy and uncomfortable, especially in one eye. Studies have shown that a good amount of omega 3 in the diet can easily rectify this situation by keeping the eye moist.
Fish Oil, Krill oil, Cod Liver Oil or Algae Oil - FAQs
Q. Is omega 3 really necessary?
Yes, omega 3 is really necessary for your well-being. According to WHO, a fish is to be regularly incorporated into our diet as we need omega 3. Now, those who can not or wish not to incorporate fish in their diet have omega 3 supplements to rely on.
Q. What is the best option for vegans?
Algae oil is the best option for vegans. Even for non-vegans. Algae oil is the safest and most cruelty-free omega 3 supplement.
Fish Oil, Krill Oil, Cod Liver Oil or Algae Oil - Final Word
Now, of course, what's the best source of omega 3? Well, Algae oil, of course. Algae oil has been proven to the best possible source of omega 3 for several reasons. The oil itself is the best source of omega 3 with the perfect blend of all different types.
Second, is the wide availability of the oil due to its vegan origin? The third being the cruelty-free and animal-friendly extraction of the Algae itself. Making it the best source of omega 3. Choose any one of the best natural oils that we have reviewed above to get the best possible results!
Here’s to a happier and healthier you!
