Life Extension Super Omega-3 EPA/DHA Fish Oil Sesame Lignans & Olive Extract - IFOS certified Fish Oil Blend Supplement For Heart Brain & Joint Support –Gluten-Free Non-GMO – 120 Softgels
Summary
This fish oil supplement contains beneficial ingredients like highly refined fish oil concentrate, mixed tocopherols, and rosemary extract, which support heart and brain health. However, the presence of caramel color and natural flavors, along with sunflower lecithin, raises concerns due to their processed nature and potential health impacts. The product's formulation includes a high number of additives, which contributes to its processing level and affects the overall score.
At a glance
Key ingredients 15
Highly Refined Fish Oil ConcentrateVery Good
Highly refined fish oil concentrate is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart, brain, and joint health. The refining process removes impurities and ensures a high concentration of EPA and DHA. This ingredient is beneficial due to its anti-inflammatory properties and support for cardiovascular health.
Benefits
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and reduce inflammation.
GelatinNeutral
Gelatin is used as a capsule material and is derived from animal collagen. It is generally considered safe and is used to encapsulate the fish oil for easy consumption. Gelatin does not contribute significant nutritional value but is necessary for the product's form.
See more about Gelatin →GlycerinNeutral
Glycerin is a humectant that helps maintain moisture in the capsules. It is generally recognized as safe and is used to improve the texture and stability of the product. Glycerin does not provide nutritional benefits but is important for product quality.
See more about Glycerin →Enteric CoatingNeutral
Enteric coating is used to prevent the capsule from dissolving in the stomach, allowing it to reach the intestines for better absorption. This coating helps reduce fishy aftertaste and improves the bioavailability of the omega-3s. It is a functional ingredient that enhances the product's effectiveness.
Benefits
Improves absorption and reduces fishy aftertaste, enhancing the product's effectiveness.
Purified WaterNeutral
Purified water is used in the manufacturing process to ensure the cleanliness and safety of the product. It is a standard ingredient in many supplements and does not contribute to the nutritional profile. Water is essential for the production process but does not have direct health benefits.
See more about Purified Water →SilicaNeutral
Silica is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping of the ingredients. It is commonly used in supplements and is considered safe at the levels used. Silica does not provide nutritional benefits but ensures product stability.
See more about Silica →BeeswaxNeutral
Beeswax is used as a glazing agent to give capsules a smooth finish. It is a natural ingredient and is generally recognized as safe. Beeswax does not contribute to the nutritional value but improves the product's appearance and texture.
See more about Beeswax →Caramel ColorBad
Caramel color is an artificial coloring agent used to enhance the appearance of the capsules. It is considered a processed additive and may contain byproducts that are of concern. The use of artificial colors is generally discouraged in health supplements.
Risks
May contain byproducts that are of concern and is considered a processed additive.
Natural FlavorBad
Natural flavor is a catch-all term for flavoring agents derived from natural sources. The lack of specificity can be concerning as it may include a variety of substances. It is often criticized for being non-transparent and potentially masking less desirable ingredients.
Risks
Lack of specificity can be concerning and may include a variety of substances.
Sunflower LecithinVery Bad
Sunflower lecithin is an emulsifier derived from sunflower seeds, which are high in omega-6 fatty acids. The processing method can involve chemical solvents, raising health concerns. High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
Risks
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
Mixed TocopherolsGood
Mixed tocopherols are a form of vitamin E used as an antioxidant to preserve the freshness of the fish oil. They help prevent oxidation and extend the shelf life of the product. Vitamin E is beneficial for its antioxidant properties and support for immune function.
Benefits
Acts as an antioxidant, preserving the freshness of the fish oil and supporting immune function.
MaltodextrinNeutral
Maltodextrin is a polysaccharide used as a filler or stabilizer in supplements. It is derived from starch and is generally recognized as safe. While it does not provide significant nutritional benefits, it helps maintain the consistency of the product.
See more about Maltodextrin →Rosemary ExtractGood
Rosemary extract is used for its antioxidant properties, helping to preserve the freshness of the fish oil. It is a natural ingredient that supports the stability of the product. Rosemary extract may also provide additional health benefits due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Benefits
Provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting product stability.
Sesame Seed ExtractGood
Sesame seed extract is included for its lignans, which have antioxidant properties and may support heart health. It is a natural ingredient that enhances the nutritional profile of the supplement. Sesame lignans may also improve the stability of the fish oil.
Benefits
Rich in lignans with antioxidant properties that support heart health and product stability.
Olive ExtractGood
Olive extract is valued for its polyphenols, which have strong antioxidant properties. It supports cardiovascular health and enhances the overall antioxidant capacity of the supplement. Olive extract is a high-quality ingredient that contributes to the product's health benefits.
Benefits
Contains polyphenols that support cardiovascular health and provide antioxidant benefits.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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