The Ugly Truth About Fish Oil

Are you someone who prioritizes your health and well-being? If that’s the case, it’s likely that you’ve come across a wealth of information regarding fish oil supplements. Esteemed professionals like Dr Bill Harris and reputable organizations such as The British Heart Foundation all endorse using fish oil.

Fish oil is widely studied among supplements for its ability to improve brain function, support heart health, and enhance wellness. However, what do we mean when we refer to ‘the downside of fish oil’?

In reality, many individuals who take fish oil supplements unknowingly make a mistake by overlooking the importance of selecting high-quality products. There exists a distinction between products that provide benefits and inferior ones that are inadequately dosed, sourced unsustainably, or even contaminated with harmful substances like mercury.

If you genuinely value your health and well-being, incorporating omega 3 supplements into your routine is crucial.

This is where Performance Lab® Omega-3 stands out. By harnessing the power of algae, the primary source of EPA and DHA, Performance Lab® offers a supplement that is environmentally friendly and free from the common contaminants found in fish oil. With its optimal 2:1 ratio of DHA to EPA, rigorous purity standards, and innovative NutriGels® technology, Performance Lab® Omega-3 sets a new standard in omega-3 supplementation.

Health Benefits of Fish Oil – The Beautiful Truth

Before we get into the ugly truth about taking fish oil, let’s first establish the benefits. The most established benefits are those on heart health and brain function, which are attributed to two key types of omega-3s: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Brain Function

The benefits to brain function are perhaps the single biggest reason why so many people are searching for a high-quality supplement. DHA, in particular, is a major structural component of the brain and is crucial for normal brain function.

This is because the majority of your brain is made up of fat – nearly 60%. A lot of this fat is omega-3 fatty acids, which makes them essential for brain function.

As you age, your brain function slows, and your risk for degenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s increases. Amazingly, people who eat more fish have been shown to experience brain function decline at a slower rate.

In a 2022 study published by the Association Academy of American Neurology, research involving 2,183 middle-aged adults revealed that:

Participants with a higher omega-3 index showed increased hippocampal volumes. The hippocampus, an important brain structure, is critical for learning and memory functions.
An increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids was linked to improved abstract reasoning skills, which involves the ability to comprehend complex ideas and engage in logical thinking.
Individuals carrying the APOE4 gene, which is linked to cardiovascular disease and vascular dementia, demonstrated less small-vessel disease when they had a higher omega-3 index.

Heart Health

If you are young and healthy, heart health will not likely be on your radar. But it should be – according to the World Health Organization, heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide.

Incredibly, several risk factors for heart disease are reduced when you consume Omega 3s, for example:

Omega-3 Improves Cholesterol Levels – Cholesterol is a substance in the body necessary for vital functions like hormone production. There are two types: LDL (bad) and HDL (good). Improving cholesterol levels, particularly reducing LDL and increasing HDL, can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke, as it helps prevent arterial plaque buildup – this is precisely what Omega-3s have been shown to do.
Omega-3 Decreases triglycerides – Triglycerides are fats in the blood that are used for energy. High levels can indicate a risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Lowering triglyceride levels is beneficial as it decreases the likelihood of arterial blockage and, therefore, the risk of heart disease. Omega-3s can lower triglycerides by 15–30%
Omega 3s Reduce Blood Pressure – Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels. High blood pressure (hypertension) can lead to heart disease and stroke. Managing blood pressure to keep it within a healthy range reduces the risk of these conditions, lessens strain on the heart and arteries, and improves overall cardiovascular health. Omega-3s have been shown to help reduce blood pressure in people with elevated levels

Other Benefits

The benefits of Omega 3s go beyond brain and heart health, which are beyond the scope of this article. However, if you would like to delve into some more research, then some of the other benefits include:

Improved eye health.
Improved bone health.
Improved skin health.
Mental health benefits.
A reduction in inflammation.

The Ugly Truth: Rancid Fish Oil, Contamination, and Environmental Impact

Despite these enormous benefits, a dark truth is looming beneath the fish oil industry. The quality, safety, and environmental impact of most of the supplements on the market are sub-par at best. At worst, you could be doing actual harm to both your health and the environment through fish oil supplementation.

Rancidity in Fish Oil Supplements

Oxidation occurs when the unsaturated fatty acids present in fats and oils come into contact with oxygen. This interaction with oxygen causes the chemical bonds within the fatty acid molecules to deteriorate and form new compounds.

When fish oil oxides, it becomes rancid. This process leads to the formation of harmful free radicals and peroxides. When fish oil becomes rancid, there should be a strong fishy taste and sour odor, but shockingly, many manufacturers add flavors like citrus to mask the smell, which would otherwise be a warning.

Global studies indicate that an average of 20% of fish oil products have excess oxidization and a 2021 review published in the Oxford Academic stressed the need for concern, explaining that:

“Oxidized fish oil may be ineffective or even cause unwanted harm.”

When Omega 3s are derived from fish, the risk of oxidative degradation is high. This is due to the long supply chain – the process from ocean catch to final consumer product. Most fish oils are caught off the coasts of Peru and Chili and are then processed and stored before being globally shipped. Not only does this lower the quality of the product, but the entire process is also incredibly damaging to the environment.

Heavy Metals and Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

Unfortunately, the majority of seafood today is heavily contaminated with toxic metals (like mercury), industrial compounds, pesticides, and herbicides. This is due to industrial and agricultural activities that leech into water sources. Fish accumulate these toxins in their organs and tissues, especially larger fish, posing a risk of toxicity.

PCBs are highly carcinogenic chemical compounds, formerly used in industrial and consumer products and are now banned in the UK. Unfortunately, these harmful chemicals are still present in the oceans and accumulate in the fatty tissues and organs of fish.

In addition, mercury exposure, even at low levels, can affect the nervous system development in fetuses and young children. In adults, Mercury can cause a host of issues, including indecision, headache, irritability, insomnia, weakness or exhaustion, and irritation to the stomach, skin, and eyes. (

Contamination with heavy metals and PCBs is a severe issue of fish oil supplements. Long-term exposure to these contaminants can lead to an increased risk of chronic diseases, including cancer, liver damage, and neurological complications.

In addition, contamination negates many of the potential positive effects of fish oil, such as those related to inflammation and oxidative stress.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

The production of fish oil has substantial environmental impacts, notably on marine ecosystems and the food chain. Overfishing to meet the demand for supplements is a massive concern, as it can deplete fish populations and disrupt marine biodiversity. It also has socioeconomic impacts on local communities that rely on fish for food and income.

The Ugly Truth About Krill Oil

You may have already heard about the potential harm caused by Omega-3 supplements derived from fish, and this may have led you to try supplements derived from krill. While certainly a better option when it comes to your health, supplements derived from krill are also environmentally damaging.

Krill are crucial for wildlife like whales, penguins, and seals and play a significant role in removing carbon from the atmosphere. Despite their abundance, overfishing in recent years has accelerated, with fishing quotas being reached rapidly due to the high demand for krill oil supplements.

The fishing of krill is concentrated in critical feeding areas for Antarctic wildlife. Despite management by the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) and claims of sustainable practices, recent investigations reveal that fishing is intensifying in vulnerable zones. Recent research indicates that concentrated krill fishing reduces local krill availability and negatively affects penguin populations.

Alternatives to Fish or Kill – The Beautiful Truth About Algae Oil

Fortunately, there are alternatives to fish or krill oil. Other beneficial sources of essential fatty acids include chia seeds, olive oil, coconut oil, soybean oil and avocado oil. However, in order to really experience the benefits to your heart and brain health, you need an alternative with the proper levels of DHA and EPA. This leaves us with just one option – Algae oil.

Omega-3 derived from Algae is not only more sustainable than those derived from fish or krill, but the omega-3 found in algae oil absorbs into the body better. In one study, it was shown to absorb twice as efficiently!

The benefits of Algal oil include:

Direct Source of Omega-3s – Algae are the primary producers of EPA and DHA. Fish accumulate these fatty acids by consuming algae, making algae a direct and more sustainable source.
Environmental Sustainability – Algae cultivation doesn’t have the environmental and ethical concerns associated with overfishing, making it a more sustainable choice. This is because it grows so quickly – doubling in size every 24 hours.
Purity and Safety – Algae-based supplements are free from the contaminants often found in fish oil, like heavy metals and PCBs.
Suitable for All Diets – Being plant-based, algae supplements are suitable for vegetarians, vegans, and those with fish allergies or dietary restrictions.

Top Considerations When Choosing an Omega-3 Supplement Derived From Algae

Now, you might be thinking – great, all I need to do is find an algae oil supplement, and I will know that I have a high-quality product. While it might be true that algae oil supplements are generally better than fish oil or krill supplements, the quality of products on the market still varies widely. Here are the important things to look for when choosing the right product:

Source of Omega-3s: Ensure the supplement is derived explicitly from algae.
Purity and Quality: Look for supplements that have undergone rigorous testing for purity.
Concentration of EPA and DHA: Check the levels of EPA and DHA. A higher concentration means more omega-3 benefits per capsule.
Dosage Transparency: Ensure that all dosages of EPA, DHA, and other ingredients are clearly shown on the product label, with no proprietary blends that hide the actual content.
DHA and EPA Ratio: Look for supplements that provide DHA and EPA in a naturally optimized 2:1 ratio, which is considered ideal for maximum health benefits.
Certifications: Look for certifications or endorsements from reputable third-party organizations that validate the supplement’s quality, sustainability, and absence of harmful substances.
Formulation and Bioavailability: Choose a supplement that ensures high bioavailability, meaning the body can easily absorb and utilize the omega-3s. Some algae supplements are formulated to enhance absorption.
Brand Reputation and Transparency: Research the brand’s reputation and commitment to transparency. Trustworthy brands provide clear information about their sourcing, manufacturing processes, and lab testing results.
Allergen-Free and Vegan Options: If you have dietary restrictions, ensure the product is allergen-free and suitable for vegans. Many algae supplements meet these criteria, but it’s always good to confirm.

Our Recommendation: Performance Lab® Omega-3

Now we’ve determined what to look for in an Omega-3 supplement; there is one product that stands above the rest. When considering important factors such as dosage, purity and sustainability, Performance Lab® Omega-3 ticks all the boxes.

Ultramodern Life’s™OMEGA is sourced directly from ocean algae, bypassing the need for fish. By going straight to the source, Performance Lab® have created a sustainable and pure product.

This product even stands out when compared to other algae oil supplements. Thanks to their unique fermentation practices, this supplement boasts the first and only plant-based algal oil rich in both DHA and EPA.

These natural triglyceride forms of DHA and EPA are optimized in a 2:1 ratio, making them easier for the body to absorb and utilize effectively. All of that, without any fillers or unnecessary additives. It even replaces traditional capsules with the world’s first carrageenan-free NutriGels® soft gel made from prebiotic fibre. This makes it exceptionally gut-friendly and bioavailable.

The Ugly Truth About Fish Oil FAQ

What are the main differences between fish oil and vegetable oils in terms of fatty acids?

Fish oil is rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids like EPA and DHA, while vegetable oil primarily contains omega-6 fatty acids such as linoleic acid and omega-9 fatty acids like oleic acid.

Can eating fish provide the same omega-3 benefits as fish oil supplements?

Yes, eating fish, especially fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, can provide omega-3 benefits similar to fish oil supplements. However, when you eat fish regularly, you are still at risk of consuming contaminants such as heavy metals. Many scientists, such as Dr Bill Harris, recommend eating fish in addition to taking Omega-3 supplements for the greatest benefits.

Why is algae-based omega-3 a better alternative to fish oil?

Algae-based omega-3 is a direct, sustainable source of EPA and DHA, free from contaminants like heavy metals and PCBs often found in fish oil. It’s environmentally friendly, avoiding the ecological impact associated with overfishing.

Does algae-based omega-3 provide the same health benefits as fish oil?

Yes, algae-based omega-3 offers health benefits similar to fish oil, providing essential EPA and DHA fatty acids but with higher purity and without the environmental downsides of fish oil extraction.

Making The Right Choice For Your Health and The Planet

While fish oil has long been celebrated for its health benefits, the ugly truth lies in the quality, safety, and environmental impact of many fish oil products on the market. From the risks of oxidation and contamination to the significant ecological footprint of overfishing, it’s clear that not all omega-3 supplements are created equal.

For those who are serious about their health and the planet, making the switch to an algae-based omega-3 supplement like Performance Lab® Omega-3 is a smart choice. You’re not just investing in a superior product; you’re also supporting a more sustainable and ethical approach to wellness.