Purity Phosphoboost Krill Oil And Fish Oil Blend
Also known as: Krill oil, Fish oil, Omega-3 phospholipids, Omega-3 triglycerides, Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA)
Overview
Purity Phosphoboost is a dietary supplement blending krill oil, derived from *Euphausia superba*, and fish oil, both rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Krill oil provides omega-3s primarily in phospholipid form, while fish oil delivers them mainly as triglycerides. This combination aims to leverage the distinct advantages of each source, with krill oil's phospholipid-bound omega-3s potentially offering enhanced bioavailability and cellular uptake compared to the triglyceride form found in fish oil. The blend is primarily used to support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, improve lipid profiles, and may also contribute to cognitive and joint health. Research on fish oil is extensive and high-quality, while krill oil evidence is emerging, with some studies suggesting superior bioavailability and lipid modulation. The blend seeks to provide a comprehensive omega-3 solution by combining these two forms.
Benefits
Both krill and fish oil significantly increase plasma and red blood cell (RBC) omega-3 indices (EPA and DHA levels), which are crucial markers for cardiovascular health. Krill oil's phospholipid-bound omega-3s may enhance incorporation into RBC membranes more effectively than fish oil, as indicated by lipidomic analyses. Meta-analyses consistently show that fish oil reduces triglycerides by approximately 20-30%, with modest effects on LDL and HDL cholesterol; krill oil demonstrates similar or potentially superior lipid profile improvements at comparable doses. These effects are clinically significant, particularly for individuals with hypertriglyceridemia or metabolic syndrome. Beyond lipid management, omega-3s exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by reducing arachidonic acid-derived eicosanoids and may improve endothelial function and reduce oxidative stress. Benefits typically manifest within 4-12 weeks of consistent supplementation.
How it works
Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, exert their effects through multiple biological pathways. They modulate lipid metabolism by reducing hepatic triglyceride synthesis and promoting fatty acid oxidation. Furthermore, EPA and DHA compete with pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids for enzymatic conversion by cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes, thereby reducing the production of inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. They also interact with nuclear receptors such as PPARs (Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors), influencing the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism and inflammation. Krill oil's omega-3s, being in phospholipid form, are believed to have higher bioavailability and more efficient incorporation into cell membranes compared to fish oil's triglyceride form, potentially crossing the intestinal barrier more effectively.
Side effects
Purity Phosphoboost, like other omega-3 supplements, is generally considered safe with a low incidence of adverse effects. The most common side effects, occurring in over 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as indigestion, and a fishy aftertaste or burps. Less common side effects (1-5%) may include nausea and loose stools. Rare side effects (less than 1%) are typically limited to allergic reactions in individuals with known sensitivities to shellfish or fish. A significant safety consideration is the potential for additive anticoagulant effects when combined with blood thinners like warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Therefore, individuals on anticoagulant medication should consult their healthcare provider before use. The supplement is contraindicated in those with a known allergy to shellfish or fish. Caution is also advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women, who should seek medical advice prior to supplementation.
Dosage
For general health benefits, a minimum effective dose of approximately 250-500 mg of combined EPA+DHA daily is recommended. For more targeted cardiovascular risk reduction, optimal dosage ranges from 1-3 grams of combined EPA+DHA daily. The maximum safe dose is generally considered to be up to 3 grams daily; higher doses should only be taken under medical supervision. To enhance absorption and minimize gastrointestinal side effects, it is advisable to take the supplement with meals. Due to the potentially higher bioavailability of phospholipid-bound omega-3s from krill oil, lower doses of the blend might achieve similar effects compared to fish oil alone. The presence of fat in meals significantly improves the absorption of omega-3 fatty acids. No specific cofactors are required, but antioxidants like vitamin E can help protect the omega-3s from oxidation.
FAQs
Is the blend more effective than fish oil alone?
Evidence suggests krill oil's phospholipid form may enhance omega-3 bioavailability, potentially allowing lower doses for similar effects. However, direct comparative studies of blends versus fish oil alone are limited, so definitive conclusions are still emerging.
Are there safety concerns with combining krill and fish oil?
No additional safety concerns exist beyond those associated with individual krill oil or fish oil supplements. The blend is generally safe, but individuals with shellfish or fish allergies should avoid it.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Improvements in lipid profiles and inflammatory markers are typically observed within 4 to 12 weeks of consistent daily supplementation. Individual responses may vary based on dosage and baseline health.
Does the blend reduce fishy aftertaste?
Krill oil is often reported to cause fewer fishy burps or aftertaste compared to fish oil, likely due to its different lipid forms. This blend may therefore offer a more palatable omega-3 experience.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7400938/ – This preclinical study in mice investigated the effects of omega-3 phospholipids from krill oil on red blood cell fatty acid profiles. It found that krill oil significantly altered RBC fatty acid composition, increasing the omega-3 index and reducing omega-6 levels, suggesting enhanced incorporation of omega-3s into cell membranes compared to other forms.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4559234/ – This systematic review analyzed various human randomized controlled trials comparing krill oil and fish oil. It concluded that krill oil shows comparable or potentially better bioavailability of EPA/DHA than fish oil, and both effectively reduce triglycerides and improve overall lipid profiles, supporting krill oil's efficacy in lipid management.