Omega Double Concentrate 400 Mini, Blackmores
$99.79
Not eating much oily fish lately? Did you know omega-3s are essential fats, which means your body cannot make enough on its own and needs to get them from food?
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats, which means your body needs them but cannot make enough on its own. The two most important marine omega-3s are EPA and DHA, found in oily fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel. Many Australians eat less fish than recommended, so omega-3 supplements are a popular way to fill the gap. They come as fish oil, krill oil or cod liver oil, each with a slightly different profile.
Benefits & common uses
Benefits
- Helps support heart health.
- Helps maintain healthy brain function.
- Helps support healthy joint mobility and comfort.
- Helps maintain eye health, particularly DHA.
- Helps relieve a dietary shortfall when fish intake is inadequate.
- Supports healthy foetal development when taken during pregnancy (as directed).
What people commonly use it for
- Not eating enough oily fish (Good evidence that supplements raise omega-3 levels)
- Occasional joint stiffness (Some clinical studies suggest benefit)
- Dry, tired-feeling eyes (Some clinical studies suggest benefit)
- Focus and mental clarity (Early research only, with mixed results)
- Dry or dull-looking skin (Traditional use, with some early research)
- Supporting heart health (Good clinical evidence that EPA and DHA support healthy triglyceride levels)
The science behind it
EPA and DHA are long-chain omega-3 fatty acids built into the membranes of every cell. DHA is especially concentrated in the brain and retina, while EPA is a precursor to signalling molecules called resolvins and prostaglandins that help regulate the body's inflammatory responses (NIH Office of Dietary Supplements).
Plant sources such as flaxseed provide ALA, but the body converts only a small share of ALA into EPA and DHA, so marine sources are the most direct way to raise levels.
Fish oil. Made from the flesh of oily fish. Usually supplies EPA and DHA as triglycerides or ethyl esters. Concentrated products deliver more per capsule.
Krill oil. Comes from tiny Antarctic crustaceans. Its omega-3s are carried largely as phospholipids, which may be absorbed efficiently, and it contains the natural antioxidant astaxanthin. Doses of EPA and DHA per capsule are usually lower.
Cod liver oil. Made from the liver of cod. It supplies omega-3 plus natural vitamins A and D, so it should not be combined carelessly with other products that contain them.
Absorption is best when taken with a meal that contains fat. The omega-3 index, a blood measure, tends to take around two to three months of regular intake to rise.
Product details & ingredients
- Form: Capsules
Contains:
Contains fish, sulfites and soya bean products
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. This information is general in nature and not medical advice. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
Supplier ref: Blackmores Omega Double Concentrate 400 Mini Capsules
Common questions
What is the best omega-3 supplement?
The best option depends on your needs. Fish oil offers the most EPA and DHA per capsule, krill oil suits those wanting phospholipid-bound omega-3 and a smaller capsule, and cod liver oil adds vitamins A and D.
What is the difference between fish oil and krill oil?
Fish oil is higher in EPA and DHA per dose and generally more affordable. Krill oil has omega-3 in phospholipid form plus astaxanthin, but at lower amounts.
When is the best time to take fish oil?
Take it with a meal that contains some fat, as this improves absorption and reduces fishy burps. The time of day matters less than being consistent.
How long does fish oil take to work?
Omega-3 levels in your blood rise within weeks, but most people need two to three months of regular use to notice any difference.
How do I stop fishy burps?
Take your capsule with food, store it in the fridge, or choose an enteric-coated or high-quality purified oil. Splitting your dose across meals can also help.
Is cod liver oil the same as fish oil?
No. Cod liver oil comes from the liver and contains natural vitamins A and D alongside omega-3, while fish oil is usually from the whole body of oily fish and has more omega-3 per capsule.
Safety
Omega-3s may increase bleeding time at higher doses, so speak to your healthcare professional if you take blood thinners or are due for surgery. Avoid if allergic to fish or shellfish (especially krill). Cod liver oil contains vitamins A and D, so check total intake, especially in pregnancy.
About Blackmores
Blackmores is one of Australia's most trusted natural health brands, founded in 1932.
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