Which one should I choose: fish oil, krill oil, algae oil, or seal oil? An article on their efficacy, absorption rate, and suitable groups

In recent years, Hong Kong people have paid more and more attention to cardiovascular, brain and eye health. There are many types of omega-3 supplements on the market, including fish oil, krill oil, algae oil and seal oil. What are the differences between these four oils? Which one has the highest absorption rate? Which type of people is it suitable for? This article will provide you with a detailed analysis to help you choose the most suitable health supplement.

Fish oil (deep-sea fish) - the first choice with high absorption rate and comprehensive effects

• Source of raw materials: Mainly small deep-sea fish, it is a health product.
• National Assessment: Recognized by many countries and has a mature market.
• Structure and purity: Using rTG (re-esterified triglyceride form), the purity is over 95%.
• Absorption rate and bioavailability: The rTG structure has high bioavailability and better long-term absorption effect. The EE structure is relatively low.
• Efficacy: It can fight inflammation, protect eyes, protect brain and enhance immunity. It is suitable for Hong Kong people who are concerned about heart and brain health and immunity.
• Market status: There are many brands, high recognition and fierce market competition.

Summary: Fish oil is suitable for consumers who are looking for all-round health protection due to its high purity, good absorption rate and comprehensive efficacy.

Krill oil (Antarctic krill) - fast absorption in the short term, excellent antioxidant performance

• Source of raw materials: Antarctic krill, a new food raw material.
• Structure and purity: Mainly PL (phospholipid type), with a purity of about 50-60%.
• Absorption rate and bioavailability: The phospholipid type has extremely high bioavailability and ideal absorption effect in the short term (within one week), but the retention rate is low.
• Efficacy: The antioxidant effect is obvious, but the anti-inflammatory effect may not be comprehensive.
• Market status: Awareness is low, and some of its efficacy still needs more research to prove.

Summary: Krill oil is suitable for people who need short-term supplementation of Omega-3 or seek high antioxidant power.

Algae oil (laboratory-grown algae) - a choice for vegetarians, but attention should be paid to absorption rate

• Source of raw materials: Algae cultivated in the laboratory, which is a raw material for health products and new foods.
• Structure and purity: TG (triglyceride type), purity is about 30-40%.
• Absorption rate and bioavailability: Most of it is plant-based ALA, which needs to be converted into DHA. The conversion rate is less than 10%, and the absorption effect is limited.
• Efficacy: Helps brain development and retinal health, especially suitable for vegetarians.
• Market status: There are many brands and choices, but market awareness is average.

Summary: Algal oil is suitable for vegetarians or consumers who prefer plant sources, but they need to pay attention to the absorption rate.

Seal oil (adult seal) - high in DPA content, but few options on the market

• Source of raw materials: adult seals. Many countries have banned the sale of seal oil products.
• Structure and purity: There is no clear concept of purity. The Omega-3 content is about 20-30%.
• Absorption rate and bioavailability: The absorption rate is close to that of TG fish oil.
• Effects: DPA is the best, but the DHA content is lower, and the heart and brain health is not as good as EPA and DHA. It mainly helps regulate blood lipids, enhance immunity and improve joint flexibility.
• Market status: banned in many European and American countries, low brand awareness in Hong Kong market.

Summary: The selection of seal oil is limited, and its sale is banned in some countries, so you need to pay special attention to the source when purchasing.

How do I choose the best omega-3 supplement?

• Seeking comprehensive health care, absorption rate and scientific certification: fish oil is the first choice.
• Short-term supplementation or high antioxidant capacity may be needed: krill oil can be considered.
• Vegetarians or those who need plant sources: Algae oil is more suitable, but attention should be paid to the absorption rate.
• Concerned about DPA or special health needs: Seal oil can be used as a supplement, but be sure to understand the source and legality when purchasing.

In summary, when choosing an Omega-3 supplement, it is recommended to prioritize the product's purity, absorption rate, source safety, and whether it is in line with your personal health conditions. If in doubt, it is best to consult a doctor or nutritionist first to ensure that the supplement is safe and effective.