Incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids in your daily routine can be beneficial for your health. As a reminder: they are found in oily ocean fish as well as a variety of vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
You can also find a variety of Omega-3 nutrition supplements, and they come in all shapes and sizes. But how do you choose when there are plenty of options? Take our October Month-End Promotion, for example, where you can choose between fish and microalgae oil-based Omega-3 nutrition supplements.
To be honest, we can’t make this decision for you. However, we can give you an overview of the different sources of Omega-3, including examples from the FitLine product range, to help you make a qualified decision and find a supplement that works best for you.
Fish oil is full of the important DHA and EPA Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for the smooth functioning of the body as they support the normal heart and brain functions.[1] Numerous clinical studies have supported the health benefits of fish oil. It is extracted from oily cold water fish like mackerel, cod, or sardines. In addition, FitLine Omega 3+E contains Vitamin E to prevent oxidation, something that fish oil is very prone to. The antioxidant Vitamin E also contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. On the flipside, there are some consequences to consider when opting for a fish oil-based supplement.
There are plenty of fish in the sea? Well, not so plenty anymore.
Already today, global overfishing is one of the biggest threats for the oceans and their inhabitants. Around 91 m tons of fish are caught every year, and according to WWF, 29% of the world’s fish stocks are overfished. As a consumer, the best way to help decrease overfishing and pollution is to choose responsibly and opt for non-endangered species and sustainable production methods.
Not so much of a fish fan? Don’t worry, there is an alternative.
2. Microalgae oil: FitLine Omega 3 Vegan
Do you know the reason why fish and krill are boasting with Omega-3s? Let me explain with the old saying – “you are what you eat.” They obtain them from microalgae. For the full story, read our previous blog article on this topic.
Microalgae oil is a sustainable alternative, as the greenhouse-based microalgae production does not interfere with animal habitats. As PM-International’s Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Tobias Kühne, puts it: „We want to protect the marine ecosystem and create a solution to avoid the commonly used fish and krill oil.” FitLine Omega 3 Vegan helps to cover the daily requirement of Omega-3 fatty acids and Lecithin and contains no ingredients of animal origin. Microalgae oil is the only plant-based source for DHA and EPA Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for the smooth functioning of the body as they support the normal heart and brain functions.[1] Vegetarian or not, many people prefer vegan Omega-3 nutrition supplements, because fish and krill oil supplements may have a fishy taste. And only a tasty nutrition supplement will be consumed in the long run.
During the production process, both FitLine Omega 3+E and FitLine Omega 3 Vegan are elevated with the unique microSolve® technology. In preliminary studies conducted at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, the working group could demonstrate an increased DHA concentration in cells treated with micellized micro-algae oil in comparison to non-micellized oil. This is thanks to the unique microSolve® technology. FitLine Omega 3 Vegan is the first 100 % plant-based Omega-3 product on the market that uses this technology. It creates a water-soluble transport form of DHA and EPA with significantly higher bioavailability.
Water solubility of FitLine Heart DUO, FitLine Omega 3 Vegan (both use the microSolve® technology), and regular Omega 3 compared.
The Takeaway
In the end, it’s best to make a decision based on your personal situation and preferences. The good news: There’s no need to overthink it. By paying attention to your Omega-3 supply, you already took a big step in the right direction. Both fish, krill, and microalgae oil are valuable sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. When opting for good-quality products, you can’t go wrong with either type of supplement.
[1] DHA and EPA contribute to the normal function of the heart from just 2 portions a day, DHA contributes to maintenance of normal brain function from just 2 portions a day.