Omega-3 Power: everything about algae oil - health benefits, sustainability and taste
Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of essential fatty acids that are vital to the human body but cannot be produced by the body itself. The three most important omega-3 fatty acids are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). While ALA is found in certain vegetable oils such as linseed oil, walnut oil, and rapeseed oil, EPA and DHA are primarily found in oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines. The German Nutrition Society (DGE) recommends eating fish twice a week, preferably oily sea fish. However, studies show that 16 percent of Germans don't eat fish at all, and those who do often consume only half the recommended amount. This means many are missing out on the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.
The diverse functions of Omega-3: from cardiovascular health to brain development
Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in health, supporting a variety of functions in the body. These include maintaining cardiovascular health by lowering triglycerides and improving blood lipid levels. Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce chronic inflammation in the body, which has been linked to a variety of diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Regarding brain function, omega-3 fatty acids support neural development and communication, which may have a positive impact on cognitive function and mood.
How DHA and EPA influence early childhood development!
The first months and years of life are crucial for the development of a baby's brain and eyes. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), play a crucial role during this critical stage. Studies show that adequate intake of DHA and EPA during pregnancy and breastfeeding supports the normal development of the brain and eyes of the fetus and breastfed infant. Recommended amounts are approximately 450 mg DHA and 250 mg EPA per day to provide the best possible foundation for early childhood development.
Effects of a deficiency in essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
A deficiency in essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can lead to a variety of symptoms that can affect the skin, immune system, mood, and other bodily functions. Typical signs of an omega-3 deficiency include dry, flaky skin and dermatitis. Increased susceptibility to infections, fatigue, depression, mood swings, and memory impairment may also occur. Other possible symptoms of an essential fatty acid deficiency include hair loss, hair depigmentation, circulatory problems, poor wound healing, and even growth disorders. With an omega-3 deficiency, plasma and tissue concentrations of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) decrease, which can negatively impact functions such as vision, nerve function, and immune response. It is important to note that there are no established thresholds for DHA and EPA below which specific bodily functions are impaired. Nevertheless, it is advisable to eat a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids to reduce the risk of deficiency and support overall health. A carefully designed diet plan that focuses on adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids from sources such as fish, algal oil, flaxseed, and walnuts can help prevent possible deficiencies and promote health.
Omega-3 from nuts and linseed oil: Why the conversion to EPA and DHA is inefficient and how algal oil offers the solution
What to look for when buying omega-3 fatty acids or algae oil
TOTOX value: The TOTOX value is a measure of the oxidative stability of omega-3 fatty acids and an indicator of the freshness of the algal oil. A low TOTOX value indicates a fresh and high-quality product. When purchasing algal oil supplements, it is important to look for products with a low TOTOX value to ensure the product's potency and shelf life.
We place great importance on the freshness and quality of our algae oil. Therefore, we test every batch for its TOTOX value to ensure our customers receive only the best. The laboratory results of these tests are published on our website to provide you with maximum transparency and confidence in our products.
Dosage of EPA and DHA: Make sure the algal oil supplement contains sufficient amounts of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for heart, brain, and eye health. An optimal dosage should contain the recommended amounts of EPA and DHA per serving to achieve the desired health benefits.
Manufacturer certifications: Look for algal oil supplements that are certified by trusted certification bodies. These certifications confirm the quality, purity, and safety of the product, as well as compliance with strict manufacturing standards.
Ingredients: Check the ingredient list carefully to ensure the algal oil supplement contains pure algal oil without additives like sunflower oil or other fillers. Products made exclusively from algal oil provide the purest form of omega-3 fatty acids.
Benefits of algae oil from SinoPlaSan
- Purity: External laboratory tests for heavy metals, TOTOX value and impurities
- Sustainability: Derived from the microalgae Schizochytrium sp., cultivation in closed systems has no negative impact on fish stocks or marine ecosystems. Algae production can even help absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and reduce the greenhouse effect, as algae assimilate carbon dioxide during their growth.
- Bioavailability: Better absorption of omega-3 fatty acids compared to fish oil
- Suitable for vegan diets: Free from animal products, rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Microplastic-free: No microplastic contamination unlike some fish and krill oils
- Optimized dosage: 998 mg DHA and 535 mg EPA per 2.5 ml in our Omega-3 algae oil DHA+EPA with flavor, for effective support of heart, brain and eyes
Why does algae oil taste like fish
Algal oil has a flavor similar to that of fish oil because both are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Algal oil is often derived from algae, which are a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These omega-3 fatty acids are also present in fish oil because fish ingest these acids by consuming algae or other marine organisms.
Because algal oil and fish oil contain similar chemical compounds, they share some flavor characteristics. The taste of algal oil can be described as slightly fishy or seaweed-like. It's important to note that this is subjective, and not everyone perceives the taste the same.
Using algal oil as a dietary supplement offers a plant-based alternative to fish oil for people who want to consume omega-3 fatty acids but are unwilling or unable to consume fish products. Our product range includes a selection of natural flavors, carefully selected to enhance the fishy taste of the algal oil while providing a pleasant taste experience.
For those put off by the fishy taste of algal oil, we offer a convenient solution in the form of high-dose, vegan capsules. Each capsule contains 720 mg of algal oil, including 288 mg DHA and 144 mg EPA. The capsule shape reduces the fishy taste while still providing high-quality and effective omega-3 supplementation.
Conclusion
Through strict quality controls, such as regular TOTOX value checks and external laboratory tests for purity and freshness, consumers can be confident they are receiving a high-quality product that supports their health. The variety of product forms, including different flavors and convenient capsules, allows everyone to choose the option that best suits their needs.
