Guide to Fish Oil Capsules

Fish oil capsules, also known as fish oil tablets or soft gels, are one of the most popular forms of fish oil supplements.

You'll find them a variety of different dosages, but the most popular dosage is a 1000 mg. soft gel.

Why would you want to use fish oil capsules, instead of liquid fish oil?

Here's a list I've compiled of the pros and cons of fish oil tablets and soft gels.

Advantages:

• Protects the ingredients from light and UV radiation.
• Helps keep ingredients stable.
• Minimizes free radical formation.
• Protects fish oils from going rancid.
• Soft gels are also tamper-proof. The oil will leak or become discolored if it's been punctured or tampered with.
• More conveninent form

Disadvantages:

• Lower Concentration of Omega 3 fatty acids - You may have to take 4 - 6 fish oil tablets or soft gels to equal the amount of omega 3's found in a tablespoon of liquid fish oils.
• Higher Cost - The cost per dose is generally higher than liquid fish oils on a comparative gram for gram basis.

The soft gel is made from gelatin. The gelatin comes from collagen. Collagen is an insoluble fibrous protein that's found in animal connective tissues, skin and bones. You can also get 'vegetarian' soft gels made from non-animal sources.

Some examples of the best fish oil capsules are Carlsons Fish Oil, Nordic Naturals and Dr. Sears Fish Oil.

You can also buy enteric-coated fish oil.

Most enteric coatings are made of shellacs, waxes and even fatty acids. Manufacturers believe these coatings allow better absorption of the oil.

Enteric-coated fish oil tablets or capsules bypass the gastric juices in your stomach and head to your small intestine where it's digested.

A good example of a high quality, enteric-coated fish oil is Spring Valley Fish Oil supplements. Spring Valley fish oils contain a proprietary fish oil mixture called MEG-3, surrounded by a wax-based coating that improves digestion of the oil and prevents any fishy aftertaste.

Looking to buy the best fish oil capsules? Read my Guide to Buying Fish Oils and learn how to get the best fish oils for optimal health.