Algal Oil: The Power Behind Plant-Based Omega-3s

Fish Oil vs. plant-based Algae Oil. You've probably seen this being discussed many times before.

Is Algae Oil as efficient as Fish Oil in raising DHA/EPA levels? Which one could be a better option for you and why? Is Algae Oil more sustainable? Can Omega-3s sourced from algae offer similar cognitive benefits? Lots of different questions with many different answers and perspectives.

Here at HCF®, we like to talk science... and facts.

And according to science, Algae Oil may indeed be a viable alternative to Fish Oil for supporting DHA/EPA levels.*

For instance, a 2017 review¹ found that algae DHA notably boosts vegetarians' DHA levels.*

Additionally, a 2015 research² assessed DHA and EPA serum levels in vegans before and after they took an Omega-3 supplement derived from algae for four months. The results showed that "vegans responded robustly to a relatively low dose of a vegetarian Omega-3 supplement."*

Research suggests potential differences in how our bodies absorb natural versus refined Fish Oil.*

Let's start with the industry standard: Fish Oil. Fish Oil is typically sourced from the oily tissues of certain fish (like salmon or herring).

This oil can contain up to 30% Omega-3 Fatty Acids, while the remaining 70% consists of other fats.*³

However, the Fish Oils in nootropics (and other dietary supplements) typically undergo refinement. It's a complex procedure that treats and purifies the natural Fish Oil, sometimes even concentrating it. This whole process is important because you want to remove contaminants and heavy metals and boost the end product's DHA and EPA levels.

Yet, some studies suggest that the bioavailability of refined Fish Oil might differ from its natural form. This means our bodies can't absorb or utilize its nutrients as efficiently.*

During refinement, many Fish Oil's triglycerides (a type of fat) transform into ethyl esters. These esters can be less absorbable than triglycerides and likely more susceptible to oxidation and going rancid.*⁴

The food chain explained: algae, fish and you.

Now, have you ever wondered why all the buzz around Fish Oil? Why do most brands source their Omega-3 from fatty fish?

The answer is pretty simple: because fish like sardines, salmon, mackerel, herring, and anchovy are rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids EPA and DHA. So obtaining good amounts of EPA and DHA from these sources can be easier.*

But here's the caveat. These fish don't make fatty acids on their own. The answer lies in what they eat - microalgae and plankton. While most fish contain less than 30% Omega-3s, algae boasts a whopping 60% Omega-3 content.*^5,6

So why not just 'cut out the middleman' (or, in this case, the 'middle fish') and get Omega-3 benefits from Algal Oil?

Did You Know? Is plant-based vegan Omega-3 made from Algal Oil or Algae Oil?

Good question: Plant-based vegan Omega-3 nootropics typically harness the power of Algal Oil, an extract from algae. While 'Algal Oil' and 'Algae Oil' might sound similar and are often used interchangeably, in this context, however, Algal Oil is the more precise term since it refers specifically to algae-derived oil.

HCF®'s vegan Omega-3 comes from microalgae (Schizochytrium sp. strain).

Our Algal Oil is carefully processed for quality and purity, making it a premium option for vegans and vegetarians. Unlike ALA from plant sources like kidney beans, walnuts, and flax seeds, which convert poorly to DHA and EPA, Algae Oil naturally contains both, allowing for better absorption without the need for conversion.*