Carlson®’s EPA Gems formula contains the following elements: Vitamin E, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, EPA and DHA.

Carlson®’s EPA Gems is a Fish Oil formula that contains both EPA and DHA—two of the most effective Omega-3 Fatty Acids. In fact, it is their presence in Fish Oil that makes it so effective. However, as its name suggests, it is focused on delivering more EPA than DHA; although, both are equally as important when it comes to health.

EPA has been shown to be able to help modify the immune response, which means that it can be an asset in managing inflammatory autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and allergies. In clinical studies, it has also been shown to play a role in augmenting cardiovascular health, by helping prevent the formation and build up of plaque in the arteries. Plaque build up sets the stage for a potential heart attack or stroke, but less plaque can reduce the occurrence of both these issues. EPA has also been shown to be able to lower blood pressure in diabetics.

On the other hand, low levels of DHA have been shown to play a role in Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Children with this condition often have low levels of Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Also, DHA has been used to effectively to reduce symptoms of depression, lupus and arthritis, as well as helping reduce the pain of menstrual cramps.

Like EPA, it works really well when it is used to increase cardiovascular health and ease preexisting heart disease. DHA has been shown to be able to lower triglycerides, which are fats in the blood, as well as lower blood pressure. It also helps diminish the risk of blood clots and arterial plaque.

When you look at both EPA and DHA, as we just have, you should realize what a perfect team they are. In fact, research suggests that they work best in formulas that provide 700 mg of each. Only a few experienced and forward thinking developers provide this kind of quality in their products. According to our research, when products like Carlson®’s EPA Gems use one of these Omega-3 Fatty Acids more heavily than the other, and in such low concentrations (EPA 400 mg and DHA 100mg), it can be counter productive.

We do like that this formula uses a soft gel delivery system, because it is far easier to use pills than liquid—for two really important reasons—taste and ease of use. Capsules don’t leave an aftertaste, and they are easy to use when you’re on the run. It is also important to note that some products contain low-grade Fish Oil, which has a really bad after taste. For this reason, we usually suggest looking for products that use only pharmaceutical-grade Fish Oil that has been purified, because it has a high level of bioavailability. It appears that Carlson®’s EPA Gems does not use pharmaceutical-grade Fish Oil, which is unfortunate, because this may further reduce its capabilities.

• Contains Omega-3 Fatty Acids
• Product appears to be rather inexpensive

• Product does not appear to contain pharmaceutical-grade Fish Oil
• Supplement may not contain the optimal amounts of both EPA and DHA

Many people have no idea what the optimal amounts of EPA and DHA are until they do the research. Clinical studies show that larger dosages of Omega-3 Fatty Acids are more effective. Clearly, Carlson®’s EPA Gems were created to highlight the abilities of EPA, but in reality, EPA and DHA are found together in Fish Oil for one really important reason—they work extremely well together, boosting each others strengths and easing each others weaknesses. According to our research, products that contain pharmaceutical-grade Fish Oil that delivers 700mg of EPA and DHA, are far more effective than limited products like Carlson®’s EPA Gems. Luckily, there are few products on the market that offer both of these elements in the right quantities.