Description:

Basic Nutrition Omega 3 Fish Oils 500mg is a dietary supplement in capsule form providing 500mg of fish oil per capsule, rich in omega-3 fatty acids (primarily EPA and DHA). It supports heart health, brain function, joint mobility, eye health, and overall well-being by helping reduce inflammation, maintain healthy triglyceride levels, and promote cardiovascular benefits. It’s a basic, affordable entry-level omega-3 supplement popular in Ghana for daily nutritional support, especially for those with low fish intake in their diet. Commonly sold in 30-capsule packs in Accra pharmacies (e.g., Vafy Pharmacy, Origin Chemist, Country Medical Pharmacy, Trafalgar Gate Pharma).

Prescription:

Over-the-counter (OTC) dietary supplement. No prescription required, but consult a doctor or pharmacist before use, especially if you have bleeding disorders, are on blood thinners, pregnant, breastfeeding, or have fish/seafood allergies.

Therapeutic Category:

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplement / Nutritional Supplement (Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids for Cardiovascular, Brain, and Inflammatory Support).

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Active ingredient: Fish oil 500 mg per capsule (from marine sources, typically anchovy, sardine, or mackerel).
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Typically provides around 150-300 mg combined EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) + DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) per 500mg capsule (exact ratio varies; standard low-concentration fish oil offers ~30% omega-3s, so ~150 mg total EPA+DHA). Other ingredients: Gelatin (softgel capsule shell), glycerin, purified water, and possibly vitamin E (tocopherol) as an antioxidant to prevent oxidation. May contain trace soy or other allergens—check label for specifics.

Vitamins: None (unless fortified with vitamin E as stabilizer; not significant).

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Basic Nutrition Omega 3 Fish Oil 500mg Capsules (standard 500mg fish oil per capsule, pack of 30). Related variants: Basic Nutrition High Strength Omega 3-6-9 (broader blend), or higher-concentration options like 1000mg fish oil from other brands. The queried 500mg is the entry-level/basic version.

Consume Type:

Oral – Softgel capsule (swallow whole with water; do not chew or crush).

Directions/Usage:

Take 1 capsule daily (or as directed by a healthcare professional), preferably with a meal to improve absorption and reduce any fishy aftertaste/burps. For general health support, consistent daily use is recommended. Do not exceed recommended dose unless advised. Suitable for adults; consult doctor for children or higher dosing.

Common Side Effects:

Generally well-tolerated at recommended doses:

• Mild fishy aftertaste or burps (common with lower-quality or non-enteric coated).
• Nausea, indigestion, or loose stools (rare).
• Fishy breath or body odor (temporary). Rare: Allergic reactions (rash, itching if fish allergy), mild bleeding risk (e.g., easy bruising with high doses or blood thinners). Side effects are minimal compared to higher-potency oils.

Package Type:

Blister packs or plastic bottle (commonly 30 softgel capsules per pack; aluminum foil blister strips in some listings; simple retail packaging).

Storage Advice:

Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature (below 25-30°C), away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep tightly closed to prevent oxidation/rancidity. Out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Consult a doctor before use if pregnant/breastfeeding (omega-3s generally beneficial but confirm dose), on anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin—may enhance bleeding), have bleeding disorders, upcoming surgery, or fish/seafood allergy.
• Choose reputable brands to avoid contaminants (e.g., mercury—purified fish oil is low-risk).
• Not a substitute for a balanced diet rich in fatty fish.
• If fishy smell is strong, it may be oxidized—discard.
• Keep out of reach of children; overdose unlikely but unnecessary.

Product Substitutes:

Similar omega-3 fish oil supplements available in Ghana (often 500mg or 1000mg):

• Basic Nutrition High Strength Omega 3-6-9
• Seven Seas, Nature Made, or Now Foods Fish Oil (imported via Ubuy Ghana or pharmacies)
• Local generics like Omega-3 1000mg or cod liver oil variants
• Higher EPA/DHA options (e.g., 1000mg with 300+ mg EPA+DHA) for better potency. Consult a pharmacist in Accra (e.g., Country Medical Pharmacy, Vafy Pharmacy) for availability/pricing.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Basic Nutrition (likely a private label or generic brand sourced from international suppliers; common for affordable supplements in Ghana). Marketed/distributed by local importers/pharmacies (e.g., Vafy Pharmacy & Mart, Origin Chemist, Country Medical Pharmacy, Trafalgar Gate Pharma in Accra).

Country of Origin:

Likely India or China (typical for generic/basic fish oil capsules imported and branded for the Ghanaian market; compliant with basic quality standards).