In fish oil, the two key active components are EPA and DHA. EPA fish oil has been proven to be beneficial for cardiovascular health, aiding in the treatment of depression, and providing anti-inflammatory effects. Over the past decade, EPA has gained popularity for its role in assisting with depression, and many studies have indicated that a daily intake of 1-2 grams of EPA can contribute to emotional stability. Despite the ongoing development of high-EPA fish oil products in the market, how can you choose the right EPA fish oil product?
Efficacy of EPA Fish Oil
EPA and DHA have different effects in fish oil. While both are Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA fish oil is particularly helpful for cardiovascular health, physiological circulation, and psychological well-being. DHA fish oil, on the other hand, is more significant in supporting children’s growth and brain development. Therefore, if the focus is on circulatory health, choosing a fish oil product with a higher proportion of EPA is recommended.
How to Choose EPA Fish Oil? Check Out the 5 Key Points Expertly Selected for EPA
1. Choose EPA Concentration of 80% or Above
When selecting EPA fish oil, just like regular fish oil, it’s important to look at the concentration of EPA in the oil. However, bigger capsules don’t necessarily mean higher EPA content. The focus should be on EPA concentration, as this results in a higher intake of the effective ingredient EPA while reducing the intake of fats. EPA fish oil products with concentrations of 80% or more are already available in the market.
2. Opt for rTG Form for Better Absorption
EPA is obtained through the refinement of fish oil. Similar to selecting fish oil, fish oil products commonly come in three forms: rTG, TG, and EE. These different forms have varying degrees of absorption in the human body, with rTG > TG > EE in terms of absorption efficiency according to numerous experimental results. Therefore, when choosing EPA fish oil, rTG form is recommended for better absorption.
3. Choose EPA from Small Fish Sources with Testing Reports
The source of EPA is the raw material of fish oil, and the fishing location and fish species used are important indicators. When choosing EPA fish oil, opt for fish sourced from clean seas and smaller species, as they tend to be safer. Additionally, make sure the final product undergoes third-party testing for heavy metals, plasticizers, etc. This ensures reliability.
4. Recommended Daily Intake of EPA Fish Oil is 1-2 grams
According to research recommendations, a daily intake of 1-2 grams of EPA is needed for improving depression. For basic maintenance, in addition to supplementing with high-EPA fish oil, it’s also possible to incorporate sufficient deep-sea fish into your regular diet.
5. Opt for Small Capsules for Ease of Swallowing
Higher EPA concentrations don’t require larger capsules. Larger capsules can be difficult to swallow and might discourage consistent intake, especially for seniors or those who struggle with swallowing capsules. Therefore, when choosing, look for capsules that are easy to swallow.
【2023】Comparison of 4 Recommended EPA Fish Oil Brands on the Market
1. Daiken Happy Mood EPA 80% Fish Oil
- Type: rTG
- EPA: 751.2mg/3 capsules
- EPA Concentration: 80%
- DHA: not labeled
- DHA concentration: not indicated
- Edible method: 1-2 times a day, 3 capsules each time (90 capsules/bottle)
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2. HAC Fish Oil EPA Softgels
- Type: TG
- EPA: 343mg/2 capsules
- EPA Concentration: 42%
- DHA: 224 mg/2 capsules
- DHA concentration: 22%
- Edible method: 1 capsule each time, 2 times a day (or 2 capsules each time, 1 time a day) (90 capsules/bottle)
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3. Om3gafort EPA 85% Omega-3
- Type: not marked
- EPA: 650mg/2 capsules
- EPA concentration: 65%
- DHA: 100mg/2 capsules
- DHA concentration: 10%
- Direction of consumption: 2 capsules per day for adults (30 capsules/box)
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4. DHC Fish Oil EPA Capsule
- Type: not marked
- EPA: 350mg/3 capsules
- EPA Concentration: Not Labeled
- DHA: not labeled
- DHA concentration: not indicated
- Edible method: 3 capsules per day (90 capsules/pack)
- View Product >
Comparison Table of 4 EPA Fish Oil
Product Name | Daiken Happy Mood EPA 80% Fish Oil | HAC Fish Oil EPA Softgels | Om3gafort EPA 85% Omega-3 | DHC Fish Oil EPA Capsule |
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Type | rTG | TG | Not marked | Not marked |
EPA | 751.2 mg/3 capsules | 343 mg/2 capsules | 650mg/2 capsules | 350 mg/3 capsules |
EPA Concentration (%) | 80 | 42 | 65 | Not marked |
DHA | No label | 224 mg/2 capsules | 100mg/2 capsules | Not marked |
DHA concentrated (%) | No label | 22 | 10 | Not marked |
How to eat | 1-2 times a day, 3 capsules each time (90 capsules/bottle) | 1 capsule each time, 2 times a day (or 2 capsules each time, 1 time a day) (90 capsules/bottle) | Adults take 2 capsules per day (30 capsules/box) | 3 capsules per day (90 capsules/pack) |
Conclusion
After considering the key points we have recommended, we hope that you can find a suitable product for yourself from our recommended rankings. Combine this with effective stress relief techniques and sufficient sleep. When needed, seek support from friends, doctors, or psychologists during difficult times. This way, you can also live a happier life free from the troubles of depression!
Further Reading:
- What is EPA? What are its benefits? What is the mechanism behind EPA’s improvement of depression?
- What is DHA? The 5 major benefits and side effects of DHA.
- Comparison and recommendations of 7 available fish oil brands, 5 key points for selecting high-concentration deep-sea fish oil products!