What it does: EPA and DHA are involved in supporting cardiovascular function, maintaining balanced blood lipids, promoting normal inflammatory responses, and helping preserve brain and eye health.
How it is used: Fish oil is commonly taken to support heart health, cognitive function, healthy vision, joint mobility, and overall wellness.
Natural sources and supplement forms: Naturally found in fatty fish like salmon, sardines, mackerel, and anchovies. Supplement forms include concentrated oils in softgels, liquids, and occasionally gummies, available as triglycerides or ethyl esters.
Why it appears in supplement formulas: Fish-derived omega-3s help people achieve adequate EPA and DHA intake when regular consumption of fatty fish is low, supporting broad wellness benefits associated with these essential fatty acids.
What to know before use: Fish oil can thin the blood and may interact with anticoagulant medications. People with seafood allergies should avoid fish oil supplements.
Interesting Fact
Fish: A Natural Source of Omega-3s for Everyday Diets
Fish are best known in supplements for providing omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA—healthy fats found in the highest concentrations in cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines. Since the body cannot produce these omega-3s on its own, fish-derived ingredients are often included in supplements to help support typical dietary intake.
