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    Omega-3 Fish Oil

    Heart, brain, joints. The senior superfood.

    Senior benefits

    • Heart disease — reduces death.
    • Brain — slows dementia decline.
    • Joints — reduces arthritis pain.
    • Eye — macular degeneration prevention.
    • Mood — reduces depression.
    • Cholesterol — lowers triglycerides.

    Best food sources

    • Salmon — wild-caught best.
    • Sardines — cheap, sustainable.
    • Mackerel.
    • Anchovies.
    • Trout.
    • Walnuts — plant source.
    • Flax seeds.
    • 2 servings/week fish ideal.

    Supplement picks

    • Nordic Naturals — purity tested.
    • Carlson Labs — pharmaceutical grade.
    • Kirkland Costco — half price quality.
    • Nature Made — USP-verified.
    • Look for: 1,000mg+ EPA + DHA.
    • Avoid: cheap drugstore brands.

    How much?

    • 1,000mg combined EPA + DHA daily.
    • Heart conditions — 2,000mg+ (doctor okay).
    • Higher doses prescription-only (Vascepa).
    • Take with meals = better absorption.
    • Refrigerate after opening.
    • Burping = take with food.

    Quality concerns

    • Mercury — wild salmon has less than tuna.
    • Rancidity — smell test (fishy = old).
    • Heavy metals — purity certified.
    • IFOS, USP, NSF labels.
    • Pregnant women — limit tuna.
    • Most senior diets safe.

    Drug interactions

    • Blood thinners (Coumadin, Plavix) — increased bleeding.
    • Aspirin daily — same risk.
    • Stop 1 week pre-surgery.
    • Tell doctor before procedures.
    • Pharmacist can review.
    • Drugs.com has checker.

    Vegan alternatives

    If you don't eat fish: Algae oil supplements (Ovega-3) — same omega-3s as fish. Walnuts, flaxseed, chia provide ALA — body converts to EPA/DHA poorly. Algae is best vegetarian option. Mediterranean diet rich in omega-3 sources. Studies confirm benefits whether food or supplement.