There has been a mounting attention to the benefits of Omega 3 by the science and health community and for this reason there has also been a increasing popularity of fish oil in the news and commercials, and related products have emerged. Another name used to describe fish oil is "deep-sea fish oil". What exactly is "deep sea fish oil" and why is it important when purchasing a fish oil supplement?

Fish oil, in broad terms, is not exactly derived from "deep sea" fish, or those species living in very deep waters (1800m) where light can barely penetrate the water. Herring, mackerel, anchovies and sardines (species that can be really found in more shallow waters) are fish that possess the most oil and have the utmost natural omega-3 concentrations.

Because these species of fish are lower on the food chain, have shorter life spans, and are small in size, they do not contain as much toxins compared to the bigger species that live longer (some can live as long as 70 years) and those that eat lots of smaller fish. This makes them better for fish oil supplements. In addition, the species cited above are ideal because of the fact that they can reproduce rapidly and are easy to sustain.

To buy a product from a respectable company that specializes in fish oil products may offer some level of assurance because there is actually no other way to be sure. For example, a label that says "deep sea" could just indicate that the fish were from the open ocean as opposed to from shallower waters. So, when you search for an omega-3 fish oil product, you would definitely run into different marketing phrases and terms that, in turn, would lead to confusion and misinformation. Because the benefits of fish oil become more popular, these products can be easily found in stores today, pharmacies, and grocery stores. But with all these marketing claims that can confuse the uneducated consumers, what then do you need to you look for?

First, examine the label for the specific fish species stated above rather than comprehensive terms like "fish oil concentrates" or "marine lipids." Second, make sure that the exact amount of DHA and EPA (the Omega-3s in fish oil) in each serving is listed. To get the optimal omega-3 quantity and the best value for your money, be sure to check the DHA/EPA content against the price. Before you buy your fish oil, it would not hurt to do some sort of research and go for products from manufacturers with a status for high quality and purity standards. Even though such standards are not officially regulated in the United States, there are international policies and third-party testing organizations that set the standards for fish oil quality. A reputable fish oil company will give details about their manufacturing procedures - from catching to canning / bottling - and provide proof of their claims validated by dependable third-party agencies.

What exactly are omega-3 fatty acids and why would need them? Omega-3 fatty acids are not only good, but also important, for our health. Since fish are by far the richest source of omega-3s, taking fish oil is among the most excellent and safest ways to get these extremely beneficial substances.

In more explicit terms, the benefits we can gain from fish oil supplementation consist of the diminished risk of cardiovascular diseases, and inflammation. It can also aid to deal with blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Furthermore, clinical studies and research point out that the use of fish oil can relieve the symptoms related to disorders like depression, schizophrenia, ADHD, and bipolar. Fish oil also aids in brain growth and helps it to work more efficiently. Have we realized now that there is indeed a need for fish oil? However, it's not necessary to purchase a fish oil supplement that claims to be "deep sea fish oils.