You only need a quick web search for this one, because there is a wealth of information on this subject. Fish oil is not a magic bullet, but there are an infinite number of well-documented benefits for a whole host of lifestyle diseases and conditions. The short answer is that EPA and DHA are specific types of polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids. Your body cannot produce these fatty acids – you must get them from the food you eat, or via supplementation. EPA and DHA are natural anti-inflammatory agents, and as such, play a role in brain health, heart health, protection against cancer, Alzheimer’s and depression, improvement of skin conditions like psoriasis and acne, fetal brain development, inflammatory bowel disorders, and arthritis, to name a few.*

Our typical diets are rich in another type of pro-inflammatory polyunsaturated fatty acid called omega-6. When our dietary intake of omega-6’s far exceeds our intake of omega-3’s, our bodies experience a wide range of negative consequences, all with the underlying cause of increased systemic inflammation. Minimizing dietary intake of omega-6 fatty acids, and supplementing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, helps to reduce inflammation, and the wide range of downstream effects.*

This processing technique guarantees the production of high purity EPA/DHA omega-3 fish oils and minimizes the presence of impurities.*

We recommend that adults take fish oil in the evening and that children take fish oil in the morning or afternoon. Whatever time you choose, don’t take fish oil on an empty stomach. Many people get queasy if they haven’t eaten.*

Probably not. But consuming healthy fats promotes the feelings of satiation, so it may indirectly curb your appetite and make it easier to eat less. Getting enough omega-3 can also rev up your metabolism, improve mood and reduce joint pain, making it easier to exercise. Some studies also suggest getting enough omega-3 can improve body fat deposition.*

Research shows that fish oil acts on the same biochemical pathways as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like Ibuprofen and Aleve), but without the gastrointestinal side effects. However, the pain-relieving benefits of fish oil are dependent on the dose consumed.*

Yes. With any omega-3 fish oil supplement, you are consuming an oil that contains calories. Check the supplement facts to see the calorie count per serving.*

► Third-party test results for purity and freshness. A third-party certificate of analysis indicates the levels of purity from environmental toxins, and the oxidation level (or freshness) of the oil.

► Manufacturing standards. Is the fish oil manufactured according to international quality standards

► Smell and taste. Does the fish oil smell or taste fishy? If so, the fish oil has most likely been exposed to oxygen and is becoming rancid. Rancid (oxidized) oils should be avoided, as they yield less-than-healthy effects. Avoid fish oils that have really strong flavorings added to them because they are most likely trying to hide the fishy flavor of rancid oil.

► Supportive scientific research to prove the efficacy of the fish oil brand.

► Sustainable fishing practices. Any environmentally responsible fish oil manufacturer should offer transparency into their fishing practices.

► Which bodies of waters do the fish come from? This is important as you want cold fresh ocean waters such as the bering sea where AlaskOmega® comes from.