Omega-3? Think Phytoplankton!
Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for the heart, brain, and overall health, but their absorption and effectiveness depend heavily on the form in which they are delivered. Not all omega-3 supplements work equally well!
Many fish oil capsules contain ethyl ester omega-3, a processed and less bioavailable form. Triglycerides, as found in fish, are better, but the best form is phospholipid-bound omega-3, as found in krill oil and microalgae.
Marine phytoplankton provides omega-3 in phospholipid form, ensuring more efficient absorption and offering a sustainable, plant-based alternative to fish oil. This makes it not only more effective but also a smarter long-term choice.
Read on below to learn more about the differences between ethyl ester, triglyceride, and phospholipid omega-3, and find out which form suits you best!
Or first, check out this short video:
Differences Between Omega-3 Forms: Ethyl Ester, Triglyceride, and Phospholipid
1️⃣Ethyl Ester (EE)
✔Manufactured by processing fish oil in a factory.
✔Cheap, but less bioavailable.
✔Must be broken down in the intestines before the body can use it.
✔Requires a high-fat diet for proper absorption.
2️⃣ Triglyceride (TG)
✔The natural form found in fish.
✔Well absorbed because the body recognizes it.
✔Stable and commonly used in high-quality fish oil supplements.
3️⃣ Phospholipid (PL)
✔Found in krill oil and microalgae.
✔Superior absorption, directly taken up by cell membranes.
✔Water-soluble, making it easier to digest without a high-fat meal.
✔Helps omega-3 reach the brain and cells more effectively.
Several studies show that phospholipid-bound omega-3 fatty acids not only have approximately 2.5 times better absorption than ethyl esters (the form found in most fish oil capsules), but they are also significantly better absorbed into cell membranes. This results in improved bioavailability.
Compared to triglyceride-bound omega-3 fatty acids (the natural form found in fish), phospholipid absorption is still superior, though the difference is smaller. Studies indicate that phospholipids are absorbed about 30-50% better than triglycerides, depending on the specific study and measurement method.
Why Phospholipid Omega-3 is Better Absorbed
1️⃣ Fast & Easy Absorption
✔ Phospholipids dissolve in water, allowing them to interact directly with the body.
✔ No complex digestion needed, unlike other omega-3 forms.
✔ Absorbed faster and more efficiently, even on an empty stomach.
2️⃣ Better Utilization by Cells
✔ The body builds cell membranes with phospholipids, enabling direct omega-3 absorption.
✔ Ethyl esters require conversion and processing, making them slower and less efficient.
3️⃣ More Omega-3 in the Blood
✔ Studies show that phospholipids lead to higher EPA and DHA levels in the bloodstream.
✔ Krill oil and phytoplankton (rich in phospholipids) increase omega-3 levels better than ethyl esters.
4️⃣No High-Fat Meal Required
✔ Ethyl esters need dietary fat for proper absorption.
✔ Phospholipids are absorbed directly, regardless of what you eat.
Conclusion: Phospholipid-bound omega-3 (from krill oil and marine phytoplankton) is absorbed faster and more efficiently, results in higher blood omega-3 levels, and is better for brain health than ethyl esters or triglycerides!
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