What Is Now Ultra Omega-3 Softgels?
There are many, many Omega-3 supplements available on the market, which is not surprising given that the FDA states on its website that there is supportive (but not conclusive) evidence that the consumption of EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), two of the Omega-3 fatty acids, may reduce the risk of heart disease. There are also indications – but no proof yet – that Omega-3 fatty acids may also support brain health.
This is a review of Now Ultra Omega-3 softgels, a product which contains one of the highest levels of EPA and DHA we have seen in a single softgel capsule.
Like many other Omega-3 products, Now Ultra Omega-3 Softgels are tested to ensure they are free of potentially harmful levels of contaminants such as mercury and other heavy metals, PCBs and dioxins.
A common complaint among people who take Omega-3 supplements is that they are left with a fishy aftertaste, sometimes referred to as “fishy burp”, or their breath smells fishy. To try and reduce this risk, Now Ultra Omega-3 Softgels’ enteric-coated, odor-controlled design, might make these capsules easier to tolerate. The downside of this is that enteric coating means that the capsules will dissolve only in the small intestine, which could have the effect of reducing the amount of the active ingredients – the EPA and DHA – you are actually able to absorb from these high-dosage softgels.
Ingredients
Natural Fish Oil Concentrate 1,000mg
Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
- Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) 500mg
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) 250mg
Other ingredients:
- Softgel capsules (bovine gelatin, glycerine, enteric coating water)
- Vitamin E (as natural d-alpha tocopherol) from soy.
The fish oil is sourced from anchovies.
Does not contain yeast, wheat, gluten, milk, egg or shellfish ingredients. However, it is produced in a facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.
Despite the fact that it contains bovine gelatin, the manufacturer claims that the product is suitable for those complying with Halal and Kosher dietary restrictions.
Dosage
Take 1 softgel capsule once or twice a day, with food.
What Is The Cost?
Now Ultra Omega-3 Softgels are available from various online retailers. it is advisable to check their pricing but it seems that it could be considerably more cost-effective to purchase the larger 180 softgel containers at around $43.99. The 90 softgel container generally sells for $23.99.
Guarantee
The Now Foods website does not appear to have any information about guarantees on the product or even a return policy. If you think you may want to return the product, check with the individual retailer you plan to purchase from.
Now Ultra Omega-3 Softgels Review – Conclusion
When compared to other Omega-3 softgel capsules available on the market, there is no doubt that Now Ultra Omega-3 Softgels contain among the highest dosages of natural fish oil concentrate along with EPA and DHA we have found. Because its fish oil source is anchovies, it is probably safe for people with a shellfish allergy to consume; however, it does contain soy so should be avoided by anyone with a soy allergy.
However, because the manufacturer has gone to great lengths to make the capsules more tolerable and reduce the risk of the well known Omega-3 fishy aftertaste and fishy breath by coating the softgels with a substance that will dissolve only in the small intestine, it is possible that you might not be getting the full benefit of the high dosage of the active ingredients.
