Algal Oil: A Sustainable Omega-3 Source

Algal oil is a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, derived from algae. It's a sustainable alternative to fish oil for obtaining DHA and EPA, important for brain and heart health.
Category
Supplement
Where to get
Health food stores and online
Applicable for
DHA
Docosahexaenoic acid
EPA
Eicosapentaenoic acid
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Algal Oil FAQ


Image credit: justgotochef.com

What is algae oil?

Algal oil is the oil that is derived directly from algae. It contains DHA, which accounts for 97 percent of the omega-3 fats in the brain. Unfortunately, not enough Americans get enough sources of this essential fatty acid. Algal oil is a plant-based, marine DHA oil that does not come from cold-water fish.

What is algal oil used for?

Certain algae species are grown in agriculture specifically to produce algal oil. It can be made from a variety of species, including Crypthecodinium, Nannochloropsis, Schizochytrium, Prototheca, and Ulkenia. The fatty acids in the oil might reduce swelling and help with brain function. People use algal oil for preventing preterm birth.

What are the ingredients in algal oil?

Other ingredients in algal oil products may include things like other plant oils (avocado, olive, flaxseed, coconut, sunflower, etc.), antioxidants like rosemary extract and vitamin E tocopherols, and citrus essential oils from lemon and lime. Liquid tincture formulas often include flavors.

What is algal oil?

Algal oil is an oil from marine algae that is rich in certain omega-3 fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Certain algae species are grown in agriculture specifically to produce algal oil.

What are the health benefits of algal oil?

Together, these fatty acids provide many health benefits. They can help your heart. The omega-3 fatty acids in algal oil may help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. EPA and DHA can help lower blood pressure and triglycerides as well as improve how well your blood vessels work. They can keep your eyes healthy.

What makes algae oil different from other types of oil?

The composition of algae oil is what sets it apart from other types of oils. Algae oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

Is algae oil a good dietary supplement?

Oil extracted from algae is rich in the omega-3 fats EPA and DHA, though specific amounts vary between brands. It’s not only used as a dietary supplement but also to enrich infant formula and animal feed. What are omega-3s? Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of polyunsaturated fats found in plants and fish.

Algal Oil References

If you want to know more about Algal Oil, consider exploring links below:

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