Author: Isaak Rabinovic
November 11, 2023 / Image by Garvit from Unsplash
Many people understand that long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for good health and offer numerous benefits. Studies have shown that these fatty acids can reduce the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. There is also ongoing research suggesting they may lessen cancer risks and boost cognitive function. Considering these significant advantages, nutrition experts recommend eating fish or other seafood 1-2 times a week.
Dr. Clemens von Schacky, a leading expert in Omega-3 fatty acids and the creator of the HS-Omega-3 Index®, underscores the importance of sufficient Omega-3 intake. He emphasizes its vital role in overall health and wellbeing, stating:
"Consumers should be aware that there is no human life without Omega-3 fatty acids." [1]
Is fish the optimal source of Omega-3 fatty acids?
Fish is not the best choice for obtaining Omega-3 fatty acids for several reasons. Omega-3 fatty acids fall into two main categories: short-chain, like Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), and long-chain, such as Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). While ALA supports cardiovascular health, it cannot replace long-chain Omega-3s due to its low conversion rate to EPA and DHA. Crucial long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids, also known as marine Omega-3s, are found in fatty fish, fish oil, and algae oil. Like humans, fish can’t produce these fatty acids and must get them from their diet, primarily algae. They either eat algae directly or feed on other fish that consume algae, which is why Omega-3s are present in fish. [2]
Incorporating algae oil into your diet provides a vegan option and direct access to essential Omega-3 fatty acids. An additional advantage of algae oil, in comparison to the non-vegan option of fish oil, is its sustainability. Algae are cultivated in controlled seawater environments and subsequently fermented in aqueous conditions. This cultivation method eliminates the need to harvest fish and krill, which depend on microalgae for sustenance. This approach ensures their survival and minimizes harm to the environment. Another benefit of microalgae and their cultivation in artificial seawater is the prevention of contamination by heavy metals and microplastics. [3]
NASA's algae research paved the way for plant-based sources of Omega-3
NASA initiated research on algae as a potential source of nutrition and Omega-3 fatty acids as early as the 1980s, with a focus on identifying "superfoods" for extended space missions. The findings from this research laid the groundwork for the initial development of algae-based supplements containing Omega-3 fatty acids. Initially, these supplements targeted infants, as long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain and vision development. [4]
The potential consequences of an Omega-3 deficiency are described by Dr. Clemens von Schacky as follows:
"Low levels of EPA and DHA (long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids) are associated with numerous health problems, including a reduced lifespan, cardiovascular diseases, cognitive impairments such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and severe depression. [5]
Algae is not just a source of Omega-3 fatty acids; it is the original source of Omega-3 in general. Given the advantages for both human health and the environment, opting for algae oil over fish oil is a preferable choice for the intake of these essential life-sustaining acids.