Fortification

To have enhanced and added benefits, fish oil supplements are sometimes fortified with additional nutrients are highly desirable. As omega-3 fatty acids are prone to oxidation and rancidity, fish oil supplements that comes with an antioxidant is highly sought-after. Such nutrients or antioxidants include:

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps minimize free-radical damage to the body. Furthermore, fish oil and vitamin E share many similar or complementary physiological functions. Taken together can further enhance the benefits of fish oil supplements. This includes anti-inflammation, improved skin health and brain function. It is worth noting not all vitamin created equal. Studies have shown that natural vitamin E is absorbed twice as efficiently as synthetic vitamin E. Natural vitamin E was also found to be assimilated (utilised) by human body far better than the synthetic form. In addition, researchers also found that the human body excretes synthetic vitamin E three times faster than the natural form. Vitamin E occurs naturally in four tocopherol forms –alpha, beta, gamma and delta and is processed differently by the body. Typical vitamin E supplements only include one form, which is alpha-tocopherol. Research study found that mixed tocopherols has stronger antioxidant activity in suppressing lipid per oxidation than alpha-tocopherol alone, which is likely due to higher uptake of gamma-and delta-tocopherol in the cells. For comprehensive antioxidant protection, always look for fish oil supplement fortified with natural vitamin E with mixed tocopherols.

Rosemary Extract

Rosemary extract is a well-known natural antioxidant due to its strong antioxidant capacity and fat-soluble property. Research found that synergistic antioxidant effect of rosemary extract and alpha-tocopherol has a stronger antioxidant activity than either rosemary extract or alpha-tocopherol alone.

Look out for fish oil supplements that contain antioxidants to combat rancidity. Fish oils supplements that contains natural vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) & rosemary extract should be your ultimate choice!