Both phytoplankton and fish oil are ources of omega-3 fatty acids and powerful superfoods, but it's essential to recognise that these are fundamentally different substances.
Phytoplankton's like an all-in-one wholefood supplement which includes Omega 3, whereas fish oil is just focussed on the Omega 3. As such they are not directly comparable.
Phytoplankton is better if you're seeking a vegan wholefood supplement; it's considered one of the world's most nutritious foods and is the highest vegan source of EPA.
Fish oil is better if you require a single source that provides high doses of both EPA and DHA.
Or you could simply combine our marine phytoplankton and Clean Omega products to give yourself the best of both worlds.
Why Choose Phytoplankton?
Phytoplankton, a type of microalgae, stands out as a remarkable source of plant-based nutrition, functioning almost like a multivitamin due to its extensive range of beneficial nutrients.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Phytoplankton is especially rich in EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), an omega-3 fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory properties and support for cardiovascular health. Unlike many plant sources that primarily provide ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), phytoplankton offers EPA directly, which the body can use more efficiently without the need for conversion.
Vitamin B12: It is notoriously difficult for vegetarians and vegans to obtain adequate vitamin B12 from their diet, as it is primarily found in animal products. Phytoplankton emerges as an invaluable plant-based source of this vitamin, essential for nerve function and the production of DNA and red blood cells.
Proteins and Amino Acids: Phytoplankton contains all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. This is particularly beneficial for those on plant-based diets who might struggle to obtain complete proteins from other sources.
Antioxidants: The microalgae is packed with a variety of potent antioxidants, such as chlorophyll, carotenoids, and phycobiliproteins. These compounds help protect cells from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease
Why Choose Fish Oil?
While phytoplankton is an excellent source of EPA and offers multiple nutritional benefits, it cannot compete with fish oil in providing a complete omega-3 profile due to its lack of DHA.
Fish oil provides high levels of both EPA and DHA, delivering a more comprehensive omega-3 profile. This distinction is crucial for anyone looking for a supplement that supports both brain health and cardiovascular wellness.
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid): DHA is vital for brain health, playing a crucial role in the structure of the cerebral cortex, the area of the brain responsible for memory, language, abstraction, creativity, judgment, emotion, and attention. It is also a major structural component of the retina, essential for maintaining good vision. DHA's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and has been shown to support brain health and cognitive function.
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid): EPA is particularly known for its role in reducing cellular inflammation, which is linked to numerous health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases. EPA also supports heart health by maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
As a rapidly renewable resource with a lower ecological footprint than fish oil, phytoplankton is an appealing choice for environmentally conscious consumers. It provides a viable plant-based omega-3 source that aligns with vegan and vegetarian diets, without the ethical and ecological concerns associated with fish harvesting.
Combining Phytoplankton with Clean Omega DHA: A Vegan Solution to Match Fish Oil
For those looking for plant-based alternatives to fish oil, combining phytoplankton with a high-quality DHA supplement like Clean Omega DHA offers an ideal solution.
This combination effectively matches the omega-3 profile of fish oil, providing both EPA and DHA, essential for comprehensive health benefits.
Phytoplankton: As a rich source of EPA, phytoplankton covers one half of the crucial omega-3 fatty acids needed for optimal health. Its additional nutrients, such as vitamin B12 and antioxidants, contribute to overall wellness, making it a valuable component of a health regimen.
Clean Omega DHA: Specifically designed to provide the DHA component that phytoplankton lacks, Clean Omega DHA ensures that the nutritional gap is filled. This supplement is derived from algae, the same source that fish get their DHA from, making it a sustainable and environmentally friendly option that aligns with vegan values.