May 09, 2024

Unveiling DHA Algal Oil

By Radha Haldule

Nutritionist

What is DHA Algal Oil?
Source of DHA Algal Oil
Absorption of DHA Algal Oil
Advantages of DHA Algal Oil
DHA Algal Oil health benefits
Introducing Origins Nutra DHA Algal Oil
Research and clinical studies
Dosage and safety of usage
Conclusion
References

What is DHA Algal Oil?

Algal oils are recognized as the botanical origin of the omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids known as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). In order to raise the levels of these omega-3 fatty acids in your body, the only realistic option is to receive EPA and DHA from food (and supplements if you take them). Omega-3s are essential components of the membranes that surround every cell in your body. DHA levels are particularly high in the retina, brain, and sperm cells. DHA is the most important and the most abundant n- 3 PUFA in the brain. Omega-3s also offer calories for your body's energy needs and serve a variety of roles in your heart, blood vessels, lungs, immunological system, and endocrine system.

Source of DHA Algal Oil:

There are numerous species of microalgae that may manufacture DHA, with Schizochytrium sp. being the most well-known microbe for large-scale omega-3 manufacturing technique. DHA-rich oil derived from Schizochytrium sp. is well acknowledged as safe for food and dietary supplementation. The oil is primarily found in TG form.

Absorption of DHA:

Ingestion
Stomach- When consumed, the DHA algal oil moves to the stomach. The oil may be partially broken down in the stomach by gastric acid and enzymes.
Small Intestine- The partially digested DHA algal oil passes into the small intestine. Bile acids and pancreatic enzymes emulsify and degrade the oil, releasing smaller molecules such as DHA.
Micelle Formation: DHA and other fatty acids are integrated into micelles, which are small lipid droplets surrounded by bile salts. This improves the absorption of fats.
Absorption: DHA is absorbed through the intestinal cell membranes. It can move through the cell membrane passively or via specialized transporters.
Formation of Chylomicrons: DHA is re-esterified into triglycerides by intestinal cells after it has been absorbed. Triglycerides are subsequently packed into giant lipoprotein particles known as chylomicrons.
Transport via Lymphatics: Chylomicrons enter the lymphatic system and travel through its pathways.
Circulation: Chylomicrons eventually enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body.
Delivery to Tissues: DHA is supplied to many tissues and organs through the circulation. It can be absorbed by cells, integrated into cell membranes, or used for a variety of physiological activities.
Metabolism and Utilization: Once inside cells, DHA can go through a variety of metabolic activities, such as incorporating into phospholipids in cell membranes, acting as a precursor for signaling molecules, or being oxidized for energy.

Advantages of DHA Algal Oil

Vegan alternative of Fish or krill oil
High bioavailability
Sustainable source
Free of contaminants
Reduces premature skin aging.
Improves memory cognition and brain function.
Reduces inflammation.
Manages cholesterol.
Relieves eye dryness and improves visual function.
Supports healthy aging.

DHA Algal Oil Health Benefits:

1) Cardiovascular Health-

DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, has been shown to have considerable cardiovascular advantages. It prevents atherosclerotic heart disease, sudden coronary death, and peripheral artery disease while also lowering dyslipidemia, blood pressure, and inflammation. Meta-analyses demonstrate its efficacy in lowering coronary heart disease events and myocardial infarctions. DHA has a unique ability to reduce fasting triglycerides. Its presence in atherosclerotic plaques is associated with decreased mass, inflammation, and stability, as well as improved endothelial function and lower inflammatory markers.

2) Neural Development-

DHA, a key omega-3 fatty acid, is essential for brain and neural tissue health, especially during early development, due to its higher concentration than ALA and EPA. Insufficient DHA levels can impair brain function, impacting learning and behavior, as seen in animal models and neonates fed DHA-free formula. Perinatal DHA supplementation is indicated to promote healthy development. Beyond infancy, DHA intake is associated with improved cognitive performance in children and memory in older adults, while it is not a cure for Alzheimer's. Observational studies relate higher DHA levels to improved cognitive outcomes across the lifetime, with different effects of supplementation on cognition, particularly episodic memory, implying dose and duration implications.

3) Vision-

Better eye health has been linked to increased intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), especially in the elderly. Cohort studies and study on twins with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) show that a high intake of n-3 PUFA and seafood may protect against both early and late stages of AMD. Furthermore, a review discovered that dietary supplementation with omega-3 PUFA could help ease the symptoms of dry eye, probably due to DHA's anti-inflammatory properties. These findings emphasize the need of adding DHA-rich foods to promote eye health and may lower the risk of age-related eye diseases. More research is needed to fully understand the processes that underpin DHA's protective effects and to create clear guidelines for its optimal intake to maintain eye health.

4) Aging-

DHA algal oil, which includes omega-3 fatty acids, shows potential for decreasing age-related decline and promoting healthy aging. According to study, DHA supplementation may provide a variety of benefits for older people. To begin, DHA is a key component of neuronal membranes, which promotes cognitive function and may reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline, such as Alzheimer's. According to research, DHA supplementation can improve memory, concentration, and overall cognitive performance in older people. Furthermore, DHA's anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce chronic inflammation, which has been associated with a number of age-related illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and neurological problems. DHA algal oil's capacity to lower inflammation may slow the aging process and improve overall health outcomes.

5) Pregnancy and Infant development-

The growth and development of an infant's brain and eyes are significantly influenced by DHA. DHA is significantly depleted throughout the final trimester of pregnancy and the first two years of infancy, coinciding with accelerated brain development. However, DHA production from its precursors in the fetus and placenta is insufficient to meet the demands of developing neural tissues, therefore maternal food intake is required for fetal brain development. DHA has been shown to offer numerous benefits for newborns, including better hand-eye coordination, problem-solving abilities, sustained attention, cognitive function, gross motor milestones, and environmental adaptability. Because the fetus lacks the ability to synthesize DHA on its own, maternal DHA consumption becomes critical for proper fetal brain development.

Introducing Origins Nutra DHA Algal Oil

Origins Nutra's DHA Algal Oil is an excellent alternative for health-conscious consumers looking for pure, sustainable, and vegan-friendly omega-3 DHA. Since it is made only from microalgae, it guarantees a pure and environmentally acceptable supply that doesn't exacerbate overfishing or deplete the ocean. It treats the root causes of age-related visual impairments, encouraging long-term eye health. It combats inflammation while providing long-term equilibrium.

Unlike fish-based alternatives, our Algal Oil contains no pollutants or heavy metals, giving you peace of mind about your health. It promotes brain, heart, and eye health owing to its high concentration of DHA, an essential omega-3 fatty acid. Our meticulously extracted algal oil supports maximum potency and bioavailability, helping your body to properly absorb and utilize these essential nutrients.

Research and Clinical Studies

A meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found that DHA supplementation at doses over 580 mg/day significantly enhanced episodic memory outcomes in healthy individuals, regardless of mild memory complaints. However, it may take more than four months of intervention to see the effects of DHA supplementation in improving cognitive decline.

Dosage and Safety of Usage

Researchers discovered that DHA intake, even at concentrations of up to 6 g/day in fish or marine-derived oils, alone or in combination with EPA and/or DPA, had no negative impact on parameters such as LDL cholesterol levels or hemostatic variables. Similarly, an EFSA expert panel (2012) determined that long-term supplemented DHA and EPA consumption of up to 5 g/day combined are safe for adults.

Conclusion

Algal oil is an important source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, which are required for human health. It offers a sustainable, plant-based alternative to conventional sources such as fish oil. Algal oil supplements are widely available and considered safe for consumption, making them an excellent choice for people wishing to integrate omega-3s into their diets. Origins Nutra's DHA Algal Oil supplement uniquely nourishes the brain, supports heart health, and promotes eye health with potent anti-inflammatory properties. Vegan-friendly and sustainable for enduring improvements.