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Writer's pictureMark Edwards

Unlock the Power of Omega 3's: The 10 Best Fish Oil Supplements for Men Over 40

Updated: Sep 30


Leaping Salmon

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase a reviewed product. These are products I’ve personally used and stand behind. This site is not intended to provide medical advice and is for informational and educational purposes only.


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You watch your nutrition, you exercise, and your weight is where it should be, so what could be missing?


If you're like most North Americans, you don't eat much fish.


If you're really serious about your heart health, that could be a problem.


What Are Fish Oil Supplements?


Fish oil supplements are nutritional products derived primarily from the tissues of fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), these supplements offer a range of health benefits. Omega-3s are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own, making fish oil supplements necessary for those who do not consume sufficient amounts of fatty fish in their diet.


What's the difference between fish oil supplements and Omega-3 supplements?


Fish oil supplements typically contain a variety of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, along with other types. EPA-DHA supplements, on the other hand, specifically focus on providing higher concentrations of these two crucial omega-3 fatty acids.


While all EPA and DHA come from fish oil, not all fish oil supplements are high in these specific fatty acids. However, in practical terms, the two are often used interchangeably because most of the health benefits attributed to fish oil are primarily due to the action of EPA and DHA.


These supplements are processed to varying degrees to increase the concentration of EPA and DHA, catering to those who might need higher doses for specific health concerns, such as joint health or mental acuity, particularly relevant for men over the age of 40.


Unfortunately, with the vast array of fish oil supplements available on the market, choosing the right one can be a tough task. That's where this comprehensive guide comes into play. This guide takes into account factors such as potency, purity, sustainability, and bioavailability, to bring you the 10 best fish oil EPA DHA supplements available.


I'll point out that most fish oil supplements, the ones that I refer to as el-cheapo fish oil supplements, have lower EPA and DHA levels. Typical concentrations of EPA and DHA, according to the latest research, are not high enough to provide optimum health benefits.


They're cheap for a reason. As I've mentioned in other posts, you get what you pay for.


Taking fish oil supplements with the highest concentrations of Omega 3s is the best approach.


There isn't a mediocre one in the bunch. These are the best of the best.


Let's look at the top 10 and then discuss the benefits of Omega 3's and Fish oil for men over 40. If you're not taking a daily Omega 3, the question should be "why not?"



Best Fish Oil Supplements for Men: My Top 10 picks for the Best Omega 3 Supplement



Viva Naturals Triple Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil



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I'll start with Viva Naturals' Omega-3 Fish Oil Triple Strength. Viva Naturals' soft gels contain 1400 mg of omega-3s, with 800 mg of EPA and 600 mg of DHA, making it an excellent choice in a high-potency fish oil supplement.


Viva Naturals, like all the other options in our list, is a high-quality supplement. Their fish oil is sourced from wild-caught, cold-water fish and is third-party tested for purity and potency. This is a premium product free from heavy metals and other contaminants.


Additionally, Viva Naturals' fish oil is in the triglyceride form, which enhances bioavailability and allows for better absorption by the body. This supplement is also free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers.


Viva Naturals Omega 3 Fish Oil Triple-Strength Profile (numbers are per serving):

  • EPA - 1500 mg

  • DHA - 568 mg

  • DPA - 50 mg

  •  Fish Oil - 2500 mg

  • Third Party Certified for Purity & Potency 

  • IFOS™

  • 2 Softgels/Serving 

  • Non-GMO

  • Gluten Free

  • Dairy Free

  • Superior re-esterified triglyceride form from wild & sustainably caught fish.



Carlson Wild Caught Super Omega-3 Gems


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Carlson is a trusted name in the world of fish oil supplements, and their Wild Caught Super Omega-3 Gems are one of the best you can buy.


Each serving has 1,200 mg of fish oil, with 800 mg of EPA and 500 mg of DHA. Carlson's unique "Gems" formulation ensures optimal absorption and bioavailability, allowing your body to fully utilize the benefits of these essential fatty acids.


Carlson's supplements are third-party tested for purity and potency, meeting the highest quality standards. They're among the most recommended you'll find.


Carlson Super Omega 3 Profile (numbers are per serving):

  • Igen - Non-GMO Tested

  • Norwegian Fish Oil 2 g

  • Total Omega-3 Fatty Acids - 1200 mg

  • EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) - 600 mg

  • DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) - 400 mg



Barlean's Ideal Omega-3 Orange


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Barlean's Ideal Omega-3 Orange is a little different than other fish oil supplements. This fish oil is infused with orange flavor, making it easier to consume and eliminating the dreaded "fish burps" that often accompany traditional soft gel capsules. No fishy taste!


Each capsule of Barlean's Ideal Omega-3 Orange delivers 1,600 mg of omega-3s, including 800 mg of EPA and 600 mg of DHA. The liquid form enhances bioavailability, allowing for efficient absorption and utilization by the body.


Barlean's fish oil is sourced from sustainably harvested, wild-caught fish, and the product undergoes rigorous third-party testing to ensure purity and potency.


Barlean's Ideal Omega 3 Orange Profile (numbers are per serving):

  • 1,000 mg EPA/DHA in Just One Softgel

  • Pharmaceutical Grade

  • EPA: 750 mg 

  • DHA: 250 mg 

  • Certified Sustainable Seafood MSC (Marine Stewardship Council)

  • FreshTech Patented Softgel Technology

  • Each Batch Tested by IFOS for Purity and Safety (5-star rating)



Barlean's Omega-3 from Fish Oil Mango Peach Smoothie


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You got to love Barlean's products. They fully understand the idea that taking fish oil supplements isn't supposed to be a dreaded experience. Barlean's Omega-3 from Fish Oil Mango Peach Smoothie 1080mg is quite different from the other fish oil supplements in this review. If you're tired of taking fish oil capsules, or perhaps your daily supplement regimen contains enough capsules to choke a horse, Barlean's might be for you.


This liquid fish oil is infused with mango and peach, making it easy to consume and add to smoothies or other beverages. Taking fish oil doesn't have to mean being punished by the fishy taste. No fishy aftertaste from this product!


Each serving has 1080mg of omega-3s, including 660mg of EPA and 420mg of DHA.


Like their other products, Barlean's sources their fish oil from sustainably harvested, wild-caught fish, and the product undergoes rigorous third-party testing to ensure purity and potency. With its great flavor (it really does taste pretty good), it's an easy way to incorporate fish oil into your daily regimen.


Barlean's Omega-3 Fish Oil Mango Peach Smoothie Profile (numbers are per serving)

  • 1080 mg Omega-3 from ultra-purified fish oils 

  • 15 mcg (600 IU) Vitamin D

  • Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) 660 mg

  • Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) 420 mg

  • Other Omega-3 Fatty Acids 270 mg

  • 3x Better Absorption

  • Sugar Free

  • Gluten Free

  • Non-GMO

  • Sweet Taste & Creamy Texture

  • No Artificial Flavors or Colors



OmegaVia Ultra Concentrated Omega-3


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For those seeking a highly concentrated and potent fish oil supplement, OmegaVia's Ultra Concentrated Omega-3 is an excellent choice. This supplement contains 1135mg of omega-3s, including 675mg of EPA and 460mg of DHA, in just two small soft gel capsules.


And a really great feature of this product is that It's enteric coated, so no fishy burps. Enteric coating means that the supplement will pass through the stomach without breaking down until it hits the intestine.


When they say "no fishy burps" they mean it.


OmegaVia's fish oil is sourced from sustainable, wild-caught anchovies and undergoes rigorous third-party testing to ensure it is free from contaminants such as heavy metals, dioxins, and PCBs.


OmegaVia Ultra Concentrated Omega 3 Profile (numbers are per serving)

  • Ultra Concentrated Oil (>85% Omega-3) 1300 mg

  • Total Omega-3 1135 mg

  • EPA Omega-3 (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) 780 mg

  • DHA Omega-3 (Docosahexaenoic Acid) 260 mg

  • DPA Omega-3 (Docosapentaenoic Acid) 40 mg

  • Other Omega-3 (SDA, ETA, ETE, ALA) 55 mg

  • 3X as Much Omega-3 as Regular Fish Oil

  • Triglyceride Management†

  • Burp-Free Enteric Coating

  • IFOS 5-Star Rated for Purity & Potency



Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Lemon


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Nordic Naturals is renowned in the world of fish oil supplements. This supplement delivers 1280 mg of omega-3s, including 650 mg of EPA and 450 mg of DHA.


The Ultimate Omega Lemon 1280 mg is also infused with lemon flavor, helping to mask any potential fishy aftertaste.


Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Lemon Profile (numbers are per serving):



Thorne Super EPA Pro

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Thorne is quality. I've said it before in other reviews. If you were to choose ONE manufacturer to source ALL of your supplements from, it would have to be Thorne.

That quality comes with a price. Thorne is not cheap by any means.


Thorne's Super EPA Pro delivers 1300 mg of EPA, one of the highest concentrations available.


Read labels and you'll see that the cheaper brands can't match these concentrations, and the cheaper brands generally won't have the kind of quality control that Thorne products have. That QC comes at a price. I believe the assurance that the product is ultra-pure is worth the extra money.


Thorne Super EPA Pro Profile (numbers are per serving):

  • High EPA Omega-3

  • 1300 mg EPA and 320 mg DHA per two-softgel serving

  • CO2 extraction utilizes no solvents for a clean product free from heavy metals

  • Sustainable fish harvesting practices ensure a stable supply

  • Easy-to-swallow gelcaps are 20 percent smaller than equivalent competitor products


Thorne is THE choice of athletes and health professionals.





OceanBlue Professional Omega-3 2100 High Potency Natural Orange


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As the name suggests, OceanBlue delivers 2100 mg of omega-3s per serving, including 1400 mg of EPA and 700 mg of DHA.


This concentration is one of the highest on the market.


The Professional Omega-3 2100 High Potency Natural Orange is infused with orange flavor, helping to mask any potential fishy aftertaste. That dang aftertaste is always the deal-breaker. Go to Costco, buy one of their bargain priced Krill Oil supplements, and savor the taste of fish burps all day long.


No thank you.


OceanBlue's Omega 3s are a super choice in a high-potency supplement.


OceanBlue Professional Omega 3 High Potency Profile (numbers are per serving):

  • 2,100 mg Omega-3

  • 1350 mg EPA

  • 600 mg DHA

  • 150 mg DPA

  • Friend of The Sea®

  • Great Tasting, No Burps

  • No Detectable Mercury

  • Third-Party Tested



InnovixLabs Triple Strength Omega-3


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InnovixLabs' Triple Strength Omega-3 offers a robust dose of Omega-3 fatty acids.


This is a high-potency product, no doubt about it.


These are also enteric-coated (we love enteric-coated), like some of the other fish oil supplements in this review, meaning there will never be any fishy burps. The enteric coating allows the capsules to pass through the stomach without breaking down until they enter the intestine.


Each softgel delivers a high concentration of 900 mg of Omega-3. This high-potency formulation makes it an excellent choice for men over 40, who are often at increased risk for heart disease and cognitive decline.


The convenience of having such a significant dose in a single softgel simplifies supplementation, making it easier to incorporate into a daily routine.


As mentioned, the fewer capsules you have to choke down each day, the better.


Anything that's easier to incorporate into your daily routine ensures compliance and consistency. Consistency is king.


InnovixLabs Triple Strength Omega 3 Profile (numbers are per serving)

  • Fish Oil Concentrate (75% Omega-3)1200 mg

  • Total Omega-3 900 mg

  • EPA Omega-3 (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) 480 mg

  • DHA Omega-3 (Docosahexaenoic Acid) 360 mg

  • DPA Omega-3 (Docosapentaenoic Acid)24 mg

  • Other Omega-336 mg

  • Burpless, Enteric-Coated

  • Ultra-Purified

  • IFOS - 5 Star Rated for Purity & Potency

  • VivoMega™ - sustainably produced in Norway



Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Advanced Omega Citrus



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Garden of Life makes a pretty solid array of great supplements, including high quality collagen. They have a great reputation.


Each serving of their Advanced Omega contains 1100 mg of omega-3s.


The addition of a citrus flavor to the softgels helps mitigate the fishy taste that could deter you from taking omega-3 supplements. Nobody likes the fishy taste, the fishy smell, and the fishy burps of cheap fish oil supplements.


Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Advanced Omega Citrus Profile (numbers are per serving)

  • PureSeaOmega3™ MSC CoC-Grade Fish Oil with naturally occurring SPMs, including Resolvins & Protectins 1.45 g

  • Total Omega-3s (Triglyceride Form) 1.29 g 

  • EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) 695 mg  

  • DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) 465 mg  

  • DPA (Total Docosapentaenoic Acid) 30 mg 

  • Triglyceride Form

  • NSF Contents Certified






Man running on the beach

The Importance of Omega-3s for Men's Health


North Americans, in their daily diet, simply don't eat enough fish. Well, not much, that's for sure.

I hear you already saying "that's not true, I EAT FISH."


Yeah, yeah, yeah. Restrain yourself. This isn't social media. Calm down. ON AVERAGE, North Americans eat very little fish. That's a verifiable fact.


Americans consume, on average per person, 22.7 kg of fish annually. It's the lowest per capita consumption in the world. Surprisingly, the UK isn't much better at 24.5 kg per person.


The highest? South Korea at 61.5 kg per person annually, and Japan comes in at 58.6 kg per person.


Because of a new awareness of deficiencies in our diet, taking fish oil supplements has become more common.


Everyday life is chock-full of dodgy food and myriad ways to damage our health, so it's crucial to prioritize our well-being and equip our bodies with the essential nutrients they need to thrive.


Fish oil is known for its potential health benefits: it can support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and enhance cognitive function, making fish oil supplementation particularly beneficial for men over 40 who may face increased risks of coronary heart disease and cognitive decline.


Omega-3s have been extensively studied for their health benefits. From supporting cardiovascular health to promoting brain function and reducing inflammation, these essential fatty acids have proven to be a game-changer for men's health.


As we age, an Omega 3 supplement can make a big difference in our health outcomes.


Let's take a look at the benefits of taking Omega 3 fish oil supplements:



Older Man doing pushups


There is an extensive body of research that shows the cardio-protective effects of omega-3s. By reducing inflammation, lowering triglyceride levels, and promoting healthy blood pressure, EPA and DHA contribute to overall heart health. This is particularly significant for men, who are at a higher risk than women of developing coronary heart disease.



Omega-3s are essential for optimal brain function and cognitive performance. DHA, in particular, is a key structural component of the brain and plays a crucial role in neuronal communication and development. Incorporating EPA and DHA into your diet may help support mental clarity, focus, and overall cognitive well-being.



There is a strong correlation between chronic inflammation and a host of health issues: arthritis, autoimmune disorders, and some types of cancer. Omega-3s possess potent anti-inflammatory properties, helping to counteract the harmful effects of inflammation and promoting overall well-being.



Emerging research suggests that omega-3s may play a role in supporting prostate health. By reducing inflammation and promoting healthy cell function, these fatty acids may contribute to maintaining a healthy prostate, a concern that becomes increasingly important as men age.


Understanding EPA and DHA


EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)


EPA is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to support cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation, lowering triglyceride levels, and promoting healthy blood flow.


DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)


DHA, on the other hand, is crucial for brain health and cognitive function. This omega-3 fatty acid is a key structural component of the brain and plays a vital role in neuronal communication and development. DHA has also been linked to improved eye health and may contribute to maintaining healthy vision.


While both EPA and DHA offer unique benefits, they work synergistically to promote overall well-being. That's why it's important to choose a fish oil supplement that provides an optimal concentration and balance of these two essential fatty acids.


Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fish Oil Supplement


Potency and Concentration


Look for supplements that provide a high concentration of EPA and DHA per serving. While there is no universally recommended dosage, many experts suggest aiming for a combined EPA and DHA intake of at least 500-1000 milligrams per day for general health benefits. That's the minimum.


A more recent recommendation is in the range of 1500-2000 mg per day. That number refers to the amount of DHA and EPA per serving, NOT the amount of fish oil. Read labels carefully.


Purity and Quality


Choose a fish oil supplement that is third-party tested and certified for purity and quality. This ensures the product is free from contaminants such as heavy metals, dioxins, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). This also ensures that the concentration of EPA and DHA noted on the label is accurate and not overstated.

Additionally, try to choose fish oil products that are sustainably sourced.


If you want to search a great database of third-party tested supplements, go to the Nutrasource website. You'll find a good database of IFOS-certified fish oil supplements and other supplements that have been tested.


Bioavailability


The bioavailability of a supplement refers to the degree to which its nutrients can be absorbed and utilized by the body. Look for products that use advanced delivery systems or triglyceride forms of fish oil, which have been shown to enhance bioavailability.


You'll also note that at least two products in this guide are enteric coated. Enteric-coating ensures that the supplement passes through the stomach intact, digesting in the intestine (fats are digested in the intestine). What does that mean for you? No fishy burps.


Freshness and Stability


Fish oil can be prone to oxidation, which can lead to a fishy odor and potentially reduce its efficacy. Choose supplements packaged in opaque bottles or containers that protect against light exposure and oxidation.


Store your fish oil supplements in the fridge to slow down oxidation.


If you open a bottle of fish oil supplements and the stench knocks you over, it's not a good sign. I've found this is often the case with Krill oil supplements..


The Power of Omega-3s: Supercharging Your Future Health


There is little to no downside to taking fish oil supplements or Omega 3 supplements for people who don't have serious health issues.


When selecting a fish oil supplement, it's crucial to consider factors such as potency, purity, sustainability, and bioavailability. My top 10 picks represent the best of the best.


Remember, while supplements can be a valuable addition to your health regimen, they cannot replace a balanced diet and an active lifestyle. Supplements are intended to fill nutritional gaps, not replace real food.


This goes for any dietary supplements that you incorporate into your daily routine.

Fish oil supplementation is a bit of a "grey area" since the typical North American diet, even the healthiest diets, contain very little fish. That means a daily fish oil supplement can make a big difference over time.


Incorporating fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, into your meals can also provide a natural source of these essential omega-3 fatty acids.


FAQ's

Q: Should you take an omega-3 supplement every day?

A: Yes. Of course, always check with your doctor, but for the vast majority of us, a daily Omega 3 Fish oil supplement can be a game-changer.


Q: When is the best time of day to take an omega-3 supplement?

A: There is no best time of day. However, it's best to take a fish oil supplement with meals, not on an empty stomach. Some people prefer to take them in the morning with breakfast, others prefer to take them with supper.


Q: Why not just eat fish to get your EPAs?

A: You should eat fish whenever you can. But to get enough dietary EPAs, you'll have to eat a LOT of fish. The problem with that is some fish contain high levels of mercury, but there is no way to know how much mercury your fish might contain. Supplementation with a high-quality fish oil supplement ensures that you're getting your EPAs from a pure, certified source.



Scientific References


Cardiovascular Support








Brain Health Benefits






Anti-inflammatory Properties








Prostate Health






Kobayashi, N., Barnard, R., Henning, S., Elashoff, D., Reddy, S., Cohen, P., Leung, P., Hong-Gonzalez, J., Freedland, S., Said, J., Gui, D., Seeram, N., Popoviciu, L., Bagga, D., Heber, D., Glaspy, J., & Aronson, W. (2006). Effect of altering dietary omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratios on prostate cancer membrane composition, cyclooxygenase-2, and prostaglandin E2.. Clinical cancer research : an official journal of the American Association for Cancer Research, 12 15, 4662-70 .



Disclaimer: All information provided on this website is for informational purposes only. No information provided is to be construed as medical advice. If you have medical issues, always consult your doctor..



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