Life’s DHA is an omega 3 DHA supplement extracted from algae which naturally contain high levels of omega 3 DHA. The manufacturer, the Dutch multinational DSM, markets this DHA algae oil as “all natural” and “vegetarian”. The Life’s DHA bottle states that “Life’s DHA from an all-natural plant source”.
The product is not without controversy. The widespread use of the algae omega 3 DHA in infant formula is claimed to be discouraging mothers to breast feed their babies. In addition to the use of the DHA oil in infant formula, it has also been argued that the algae strain which DSM uses has been genetically modified, and that the oil should therefore not be used in organic products. Unfortunately there are no rules in the United States that force a manufacturer to disclose that a product is made from a genetically modified organism (GMO). There are however rules for what makes a product organic. We at WellWise support efforts to encourage manufacturers to disclose whether their products contain GMO material, especially for supplements that are marketed as all-natural.
Life's DHA is a good source for omega 3 for consumers who have no problem with GMO. This DHA algae oil supplement should appeal to vegetarians and pregnant and breast feeding mothers. The DHA levels are far higher than in fish oil or krill oil. Judged purely as an omega 3 DHA source, this algae omega 3 DHA supplement is by far superior to any other product on the market. WellWise posted several blogs discussing the importance of DHA for brain development.
DHA level in algae oil is 40%
Life’s DHA algae oil contains 40% DHA (docosahexaenoic acid); the omega 3 which is essential for brain development and brain function. Life’s DHA is almost purely a triglyceride oil, with very high DHA levels (40%), and does not contain significant amounts of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). According to the label, the algae oil supplement has sunflower oil added to it.
Recommended algal DHA dose is 200 mg
The recommended daily dose is one 500 mg capsule with 200 mg DHA. That is about the same quantity of DHA omega 3 as in 1,700 mg fish oil.
Algae oil price
Life's DHA algae oil is sold both as private label, in blends and directly by Life DHA on the internet. The direct to consumer supplement sold on the internet by Life's DHA sells at a $34.95 price for 60 vegetarian capsules* (500 mg oil each with 200 mg DHA).
