Algae vs. Fish Oil: A Sustainable Solution for Omega-3s

People aware of the challenges of ingesting Omega-3s are aware it’s not easy, due to the limited naturally occurring sources of the fatty acids in the wild.

The two most common sources are fish oil versus algae oil, but what are the differences between these sources in ways that impact consumers? The answers surround items like taste, sustainability, and the presence of Omega-3 fatty acids. These acids are essential for your body’s cells in a way that impacts major parts of your body like your heart, eyes, and brain.

Keep reading to learn more about fatty acids and the differences between sourcing your omega-3s from algae vs. fish oil.

Learn about Dr. Khalili’s Algae Oil supplement for your source of omega-3 DHA.

Types of essential Omega-3 fatty acids

There are many fatty acids, but health experts often recommend consuming three — the Omega-3 — fatty acids, DHA, EPA, and ALA.

·       DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) — This triglyceride isn’t naturally created in our body, but is essential. DHA is an essential fatty acid that benefits to health of cells and our cell membranes. It’s so critical our bodies recycle DHA when it gets low.

·       EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) — Evidence supports EPA can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and reduce inflammation. It’s often found alongside DHA.

·       ALA (Alpha-linolenic Acid) — ALA does not provide any health benefits on its own, but when ingested it does break down into EPA and DHA in the liver.

Health benefits of Omega-3s

Algae and Fish oils both contribute differing amounts of our essential fatty acids, but these Omega-3s have a similar impact on your overall health.

Brain Health

DHA is found commonly throughout the brain and studies show it reduces the risk of cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. It can also be critical for young toddlers and their growing brains.

Heart Health

EPA and DHA can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease according to the FDA. Additionally, it can reduce blood pressure by thinning blood and maintain HDL “good” cholesterol.

Eye Health

Scientists have theorized EPA and DHA oil supplements can improve overall eye health by relieving dry eye symptoms and reducing inflammation.

Fish Oil versus Algae Oil

When comparing fish oil versus algae oil, there are several things to consider.

Source

Algae for oil is grown in large-scale cultivation tanks or ponds that can be manipulated through additional UV light, temperature and other factors to increase fatty acid production. Once mature, algae is harvested and extracted for oil then purified.

Fish are often grown in farms rather than caught in the wild. As a whole, farmed fish are a more reliable source of EPA and DHA than wild fish.

Sustainability

Algae oil is a wonderfully sustainable option that doesn’t require farming or death of animals. For many vegetarians and vegans, this will be a qualifying factor that puts Algae oil over the top.

Factory fish farms are criticized for producing less healthy fish and acidifying water due to the high concentration of fish in a small fresh-or-salt water area.

Taste

Fish oil is known for its fishy taste, and many can attempt to hide it or cover it up with a citrusy flavor.

Part of Algae’s popularity has grown from its buttery consistency and lack of a fishy taste. Some oils will add flavors as well.

Purity and Quality

Fish oils are sourced predominantly from fish farms where they are processed quickly and tested to meet purity and quality standards.

Algae is grown in a controlled environment that is limited from environmental toxins or pollutants.