Solgar Omega 3 700: double concentration fish oil
The Solgar Omega 3 700 is a dietary supplement in soft capsules, with concentrate of open sea fish oil. According to the manufacturer's table, four capsules provide 4800mg concentrate of fish oil, of which 1440mg is EPA and 960mg is DHA. By simple division, this corresponds to 1200mg oil, 360mg EPA and 240mg DHA per capsule. The package contains 120 soft capsules.
It is aimed at adults who do not eat fatty fish twice a week and want a constant source of long-chain omega 3. The large package and the dosage range from one to four capsules make it a practical choice for both daily maintenance and for those who want a higher daily intake of EPA and DHA, always within the limits set by the manufacturer.
EPA and DHA: two fatty acids with different work
Omega 3 is not a single nutrient. Alpha-linolenic acid from plant sources has a short carbon chain and the body converts it to EPA and DHA with low efficiency. Therefore, fish oil preparations provide the ready-made, long-chain forms directly. Thus, on the label it matters less how much oil there is in total, but how many mg of EPA and DHA it contains, and here the ratio is high: of the 4800mg of oil in four capsules, 2400mg are EPA and DHA.
The two acids do not play the same role. DHA is incorporated to a large extent into the membranes of nerve cells and the retina, and this underpins the approved claims that it contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function and normal vision, with a daily intake of 250mg.* EPA together with DHA contributes to the normal function of the heart, also at 250mg per day, while for the maintenance of normal blood triglyceride levels, clearly higher daily intakes are required.*
How does the Solgar product position itself
According to the product presentation by Solgar itself, it is a preparation with high content of natural omega 3, which the company describes as the good fats that nourish the whole body, and which contains the important types EPA and DHA commonly found in fatty fish. The company states the following:
- DHA and EPA contribute to normal triglyceride levels. This claim is linked to higher daily intakes than those required by others.
- DHA and EPA contribute to normal brain function. The related approved claim is specifically attributed to DHA, with 250mg per day.
- DHA and EPA contribute to normal heart function. This is achieved with a daily intake of 250mg EPA and DHA.
- DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal vision. Here the threshold is 250mg DHA per day.
The above formulations are attributed to the producer and correspond to claims approved for the fatty acids EPA and DHA. Which of these thresholds are covered depends on how many capsules are taken daily.
What does the formula show, one by one
- EPA 1440mg per 4 capsules: together with DHA it contributes to normal heart function, with a daily intake of 250mg EPA and DHA.*
- DHA 960mg per 4 capsules: contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function and normal vision, with a daily intake of 250mg DHA.*
- Concentrate of fish oil 4800mg per 4 capsules: the raw material comes from open sea fish and is the carrier of the two fatty acids.
- Mixed tocopherols: added to the shell as a natural form of vitamin E, which protects the oil from oxidation.
The soft capsule shell is made of bovine gelatin with vegetable glycerine, which is important for those who avoid gelatin of animal origin.
Who is it suitable for
It suits adults who eat fatty fish rarely, such as sardines, mackerel or salmon, and want to cover their dietary long-chain omega 3. It suits people who are interested in the normal function of the heart and choose a dose that comfortably covers the related threshold. It suits those who work many hours in front of a screen and are interested in maintaining normal vision. Finally, it suits anyone who prefers a large package at a lower cost per day of use.
The product is a dietary supplement and does not replace a medical diagnosis, monitoring or treatment. It does not replace medication or regular doctor check-up.
Ingredients
Main ingredients: per 4 capsules, Concentrate of fish oil 4800mg, EPA 1440mg, DHA 960mg. The oil comes from open sea fish.
Other ingredients: bovine gelatin, vegetable glycerine, mixed tocopherols (vitamin E).
Free of: sugar, starch, yeast, wheat, gluten, dairy, preservatives, sweeteners, artificial flavors or colors.
Dosage and usage
Form: soft capsules
Recommended dosage: for adults, 1 to 4 soft capsules daily, preferably with meals.
The duration of the package depends on the dose: with one capsule per day, the 120 capsules last for 120 days, with two for 60 days and with four for 30 days. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Dietary supplements should not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet.
Fish oils may enhance the action of anticoagulant drugs, so those taking such medication or about to undergo surgery should consult their doctor. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you are on medication or have a health problem, consult your doctor or pharmacist before use. Keep the product in a cool and dry place, away from children. The product is not intended for the prevention, treatment or cure of human disease.
Frequently asked questions
How much EPA and DHA do I get with each capsule?
The manufacturer's table gives 1440mg EPA and 960mg DHA per 4 capsules, i.e. 360mg EPA and 240mg DHA per capsule.
How many capsules should I take?
The manufacturer's guideline is 1 to 4 capsules daily, preferably with meals. The choice within this range is made with the advice of a doctor or pharmacist.
Does one capsule cover the thresholds of the approved claims?
One capsule exceeds the 250mg EPA and DHA required for the heart claim. For the 250mg DHA threshold, more than one capsule is needed.
How long does the 120-capsule package last?
From 30 days, if four capsules are taken daily, to 120 days with one capsule.
What is the capsule made of?
It is made of bovine gelatin with vegetable glycerine, so it is not suitable for vegetarians or those who avoid bovine gelatin.
Do I need to be careful if I take anticoagulants?
Yes. Fish oils may enhance anticoagulant action, so doctor's advice is needed before use.
How do I avoid the fish aftertaste?
Taking it with a meal, as recommended by the manufacturer, usually limits the aftertaste.
How does it differ from the smaller 30 and 60 capsule packages?
The composition and dosage are the same. It differs only in the number of capsules, and thus the duration covered by each package.
* Health claims approved under Regulation (EC) 1924/2006. The product is not intended for the prevention, treatment or cure of human disease.