The omega-3s EPA/DHA are among the most researched nutrients in the world. Beating vitamin E, folic acid and probiotics – and even some of the most established pharmaceuticals such as Lipitor, acetaminophen and Metformin (source: PubMed/GOED).
In fact, there has been a significant amount of research conducted in the past decade and thousands of studies published on omega-3s alone, according to the Global Organization for EPA & DHA Omega-3s (GOED).
But not all omega-3s are created equal. There are many differences in the omega-3 category as well as among the specific EPA and DHA options in the marketplace.
Here’s how you can find the right omega-3:
With krill oil in particular, its omega-3 fatty acids – EPA and DHA – are largely bound to phospholipids, which are integral to the body’s cells and cell membranes. Due to this biological advantage, our bodies immediately recognize phospholipid-bound omega-3s and incorporate them into the cells, feeding the places that need them the most including the heart, brain, liver and joints.
Other omega-3 sources, specifically those in triglyceride form, must go through a conversion process before they can be taken up by our cells and used by our bodies.
As valuable source of the omega-3s EPA and DHA, krill oil is digested and delivered differently in the body compared to other omega-3 sources. Some studies suggest an advantage to omega-3s being bound to phospholipids because they accumulate better in the blood and tissues in the body as shown by the Omega-3 Index.
The Omega-3 Index Test is a simple blood test that tells users what percentage of their red blood cells contain omega-3s EPA/DHA. While the ideal percentage is 8% or above, most consumers globally have a very low Omega-3 Index level (4% or below), putting them at significantly increased risk for serious heart and brain-related diseases. More specifically, an Omega-3 Index of 4% or below is correlated with up to a 90% higher risk of sudden cardiac death (source: OmegaQuant).
This test is not only an ideal tool to help consumers better understand omega-3s and their many benefits, but it also provides a simple way for them to proactively monitor their intake, allowing them to make better health decisions.
And there’s more. In addition to containing these valuable omega-3s and phospholipids, krill oil also contains choline and astaxanthin.