Omega XL is a dietary supplement that contains a proprietary blend of 30 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These omega-3 fatty acids are derived from fish oils and are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. But what exactly is in Omega XL and where do its ingredients come from?
The Main Ingredients in Omega XL
According to the Omega XL website, the main active ingredients in the supplement are:
- PCSO-524® patented marine lipid concentrate
- EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
- DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
Let’s take a closer look at each of these key ingredients.
PCSO-524®
PCSO-524® is a patented blend of 30 different fatty acids extracted from the New Zealand green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus). This mussel oil contains a variety of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA. The makers of Omega XL claim this combination of fatty acids provides enhanced anti-inflammatory benefits compared to regular fish oil.
Research has shown mussel oil can help reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness related to osteoarthritis and other conditions. The oil’s anti-inflammatory effects may be due to its unique mix of lipids, including omega-3s and furan fatty acids.
EPA
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is one of the two main omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, along with DHA. Like DHA, EPA offers powerful anti-inflammatory effects and can help lower triglycerides. Studies show EPA may also benefit heart health, brain function, depression, skin disorders, and more.
Omega XL provides 350 mg of EPA per serving, which is a substantial amount compared to regular fish oil supplements. Getting enough EPA is important for reducing inflammation.
DHA
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is the other predominant omega-3 in fish oils. DHA is particularly abundant in the brain, eyes, and nervous system. Consuming enough DHA is vital for brain development and health.
Research shows DHA has anti-inflammatory properties like EPA. It may also support heart and eye health. Omega XL contains 250 mg of DHA per dose.
Where Do the Ingredients in Omega XL Come From?
Now that we know the key ingredients, where exactly do they come from?
PCSO-524® Mussel Oil
The proprietary PCSO-524® extract in Omega XL is sustainably sourced from New Zealand green-lipped mussels. These mollusks are harvested from clean, unpolluted waters off the coast of New Zealand. The country has strict regulations to ensure mussels are farmed and harvested responsibly.
Once harvested, the mussels go through processing to carefully extract the lipid oil, which contains the 30 inflammation-fighting fatty acids. This oil is then shipped to the United States where it is incorporated into Omega XL supplements.
Fish Oils
The EPA and DHA omega-3s in Omega XL come from fish oil made from small, cold-water fish like anchovies and sardines. These tiny fish are low on the food chain and typically have lower mercury levels compared to larger predatory fish.
The fish oils in Omega XL go through a purification process called molecular distillation. This removes potential contaminants like mercury, PCBs, dioxins, and heavy metals from the oil.
Purified fish oil is then combined with the New Zealand mussel oil, vitamin E, and other ingredients to create the final Omega XL product.
A Closer Look at the Omega XL Ingredients List
Here is a complete overview of what goes into Omega XL, according to the supplement facts label:
Proprietary Blend 850mg
- PCSO-524® Patented Marine Lipid Concentrate
- Monounsaturated Olive Oil
- Palm Oil
- Safflower Oil
- Fish Oil
Omega Fatty Acids 600mg
- EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) – 350mg
- DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) – 250mg
Other Ingredients
- Gelatin
- Glycerin
- Purified Water
- Vitamin E
As you can see, the proprietary PCSO-524® mussel oil concentrate makes up the bulk of the formula along with supporting oils like olive, palm, safflower, and fish oils. Purified fish oils provide the EPA and DHA content.
The other ingredients include gelatin and vegetable glycerin to form the softgel capsule, vitamin E as an antioxidant, and purified water.
Quality and Purity Testing
Omega XL undergoes rigorous third-party testing to verify quality and purity:
- The finished product is tested for over 200 potential contaminants including mercury.
- Omega XL facilities are GMP certified for quality manufacturing practices.
- The fish oils used are Friend of the Sea certified sustainable.
- Omega XL softgels are made without any gluten, dairy, egg, tree nuts, or shellfish.
Through this extensive testing, Omega XL aims to provide a pure, high-quality fish and mussel oil supplement.
Conclusion
Omega XL contains a blend of ingredients sourced from New Zealand green-lipped mussels and purified fish oils. The mussel oil (PCSO-524®) provides 30 inflammation-modulating fatty acids, while the fish oils supply anti-inflammatory omega-3s EPA and DHA.
These ingredients are combined into softgels that go through rigorous quality testing. Overall, Omega XL provides omega fatty acids and other lipids to help support joint, heart, brain, and total body health.
