What should I look for when I buy fish oil

When purchasing fish oil, there are several key factors to consider based on insights from the Huberman Lab:

1. Form and Quality: Look for fish oil in triglyceride form rather than ethyl ester form, as it is more bioavailable. This means your body can absorb it better. High-quality supplements will often market this on their packaging or website 1.

2. Dosage of EPA: Aiming for a threshold of at least 2 grams of EPA per day is recommended to derive the various health benefits, including mood improvement and joint health 2 3.

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3. Contaminants: Make sure the fish oil is free from contaminants like mercury, PCBs, and dioxins. Reputable brands often undergo third-party testing to ensure these contaminants are absent 1 4.

4. Oxidation Levels: Look for products with low oxidation levels, as indicated by a low Totox number. Keep the fish oil refrigerated to maintain its quality and extend shelf life 2.

5. Consistency and Source: Consistently taking fish oil, especially when consuming fatty fish isn't regular, can be beneficial. Choose high-quality sources whether they're capsules or liquid form, and consider taste preferences—such as lemon flavor in liquids to improve palatability 4.

6. Storage: Fish oil is sensitive to oxidation, so storing it in a refrigerator is important to preserve its efficacy 1.

Ultimately, selecting a fish oil supplement involves ensuring its quality and purity, getting the right form, and verifying its potency in terms of essential fatty acids like EPA.