Omega XL is an omega 3 supplement sold by Great HealthWorks that’s claimed to promote joint, muscle, immune and respiratory health.
So does Omega XL really work? To answer that question, we’ll thoroughly review the product formulation based on what the current medical research has found about the effects of omega 3 (fish oil) supplements.
We’ll also share some Omega XL reviews from real customers so that you can get their take on the results of this supplement.
What Are The Omega XL Ingredients?
The only ingredient in Omega XL is the “Omega XL Proprietary Blend”, a blend that consists of Green-Lipped Mussel Oil, which contains omega 3 fatty acids, along with olive oil and d-alpha tocopherol (vitamin E).
Omega-3 is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), with the other type being omega-6.
The three types of omega−3 fatty acids used by the body are α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
ALA is found in plant sources, such as walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and leafy vegetables.
EPA and DHA are found in marine animals, such as fatty fish (salmon, anchovy, and tuna).
ALA is a precursor to both EPA and DHA, however, the conversion rate in the human body is very low; it is estimated to be 6.0% for EPA and 3.8% for DHA.
The Green-lipped mussel oil in Omega XL contains high concentrations of EPA and DHA.
The reason that supplements like Omega XL exist is based on the theory that omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and, therefore, can relieve joint pain that’s caused by inflammation.
We read a study published in the journal Inflammopharmacology that looked at the efficacy of a green-lipped mussel extract (called GSM in the study) in the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Results of the study state, “When taken orally in whole powder or oil extract formats, GSM has been found to be beneficial for pain relief, reducing inflammation and ameliorating other debilitating symptoms associated with inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and OA without causing the adverse side effects of NSAIDs.”
However, we also noticed a conflict of interest with this study: one of the authors is employed by one of the New Zealand fisheries that produces and sells the green-lipped mussel supplement used in this study.
This is a common issue in the fish oil industry. In an article titled The Great Fish Oil Experiment, Dr. Ray Peat, PhD, shares how the U.S. government, which once warned against excessive omega-3 intake, now appears to support the fish oil industry, selectively promoting research favorable to its interests. Editorial decisions in research journals may be influenced by industry representatives, leading to biased conclusions.
It’s also important to consider that omega-3 fatty acids are highly unsaturated fatty acids with multiple double bonds which are easily oxidized. This means they are prone to oxidative damage when exposed to oxygen, light, or heat.
This oxidative damage can lead to the formation of free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can cause cell damage and contribute to inflammation.
A study published in the peer-reviewed journal Nutrition states, “Many commercially available omega-3 supplements are unacceptably oxidized, leading to myriad potential health risks.”
The study tested 12 different omega-3 oils (6 fish, 4 krill, 2 algae) using 1 H-nuclear magnetic resonance scanning. Eight of the supplements contained aldehydes, a product of oxidation that have been shown to have mutagenic, cytotoxic, and inflammatory properties that may contribute to many different disease processes, including cardiovascular disease.
What Are The Omega XL Side Effects?
Like any dietary supplement, there is a possibility of experiencing side effects.
The most common side effects associated with fish oil supplements are a fishy aftertaste, bad breath, nausea, and upset stomach.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, more serious adverse effects including atrial fibrillation and bleeding.
Always consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating any supplements into your routine to ensure they align with your individual health needs and medical conditions.
Where to Buy Omega XL?
Omega XL is sold on the brand’s website (omegaxl.com), as well as on Amazon.com. You can also purchase Omega XL on Walmart.com.
How Much is Omega XL?
On the brand’s website, Omega XL costs $39.95 USD for one 60-count bottle, but at the time of writing this review the brand is offering buy one get one free. Essentially, you get two (2) 60-count bottles for $39.95 USD plus $6.95 shipping.
On Amazon and Walmart.com, Omega XL costs $48.99 USD for one 60-count bottle (30 day supply).
Our Verdict: Does Omega XL Really Work?
Pros
- Some research suggests that green-lipped mussel can reduce inflammation and pain
- Reviews mention that the softgels are easy to swallow
- 60 day money back guarantee (on the brand’s website for auto ship orders only)
Cons
- Expensive
- Quite a few 1-star reviews mention that the product didn’t help at all
- Studies that demonstrate the benefits of omega-3 supplements often have conflicts of interest
- Research indicates that omega-3 supplements may be oxidized before you even purchase them
What Are Some Alternatives to Omega XL?
If you’re looking for an alternative to Omega XL, you may want to consider an oral collagen supplement.
Oral collagen supplements are believed to aid joint health by replenishing collagen levels, which decline with age and contribute to joint stiffness and pain. Research suggests that collagen supplementation may reduce inflammation, improve joint function, and alleviate discomfort associated with conditions like osteoarthritis.
Below are a few of the collagen supplement brands we’ve reviewed:
References:
Inflammopharmacology. 2021; 29(4): 925–93
Nutrition. 2019 Apr:60:74-79.
Cleveland Clinic “Fish Oil Pills Aren’t Doing What You Think They’re Doing” Jan 2023
