The Differences between Fish Oil, Cod Liver Oil and Omega 3
One of the more muddling elements when it comes to DHA and EPA is understanding the differences between fish oil, cod liver oil and omega 3 oil. After all - are they really any different from one another?
Fish Oil: Fish oil is a general term to define any marine source of EPA & DHA.
Cod Liver Oil: Cod liver oil is not only high in EPA and DHA, but also contains vitamins A & D. While these additional vitamins can make cod liver oil particularly beneficial for most people, it is not recommended for pregnant women.
Omega 3 Oil: Omega 3 oil is typically taken from the body of fish such as anchovies, mackerel and sardines, as opposed to the liver. This typically results in it being higher in the omega 3s, but means it does not contain a significant amount of vitamin A or D.
In conclusion, if you’re eating a balanced diet and/or take a regular multivitamin then the difference between these three supplements is of little importance. They key will be looking for those supplements with the right levels of DHA and EPA.
What is a Beneficial Dose?
When you’re comparing fish oil supplements, it is wise to assess the level of EPA and DHA found in each. This will allow you to deduce the value-for-money that each supplement offers.
For supporting general health and the condition of the heart, brain and eyes, 250mg of EPA and DHA per day is widely accepted to be sufficient.
However, if you are taking fish oil to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, then higher doses are required. The research suggests that for these health concerns, 2-3g of combined EPA and DHA should be consumed daily.