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Arctic Plankton Oil is a totally new kind of omega-3 fatty acid
It is a new, usable source of omega-3 fatty acids, which is not only more eco-friendly, Calanus finmarchicus
Like the fish oil in Super Omega-3, the Calanus oil in Arctic Plankton Oil helps optimise cardiovascular health, but it also produces more marked effects on abdominal fat and insulin sensitivity.
Who is Arctic Plankton Oil aimed at?
Arctic Plankton Oil is suitable for all sectors of the population for meeting recommended intakes for omega-3 fatty acids.
In addition, it is particularly recommended for the following groups of people:
- those with a large waistline (excess abdominal fat) ;
- those over 50 (to prevent cognitive decline and cardiovascular problems) ;
- those suffering from chronic inflammation ;
- those with hypertension, hypertriglyceridaemia, hypercholesterolaemia or hyperglycaemia ;
- those suffering from fatigue or low mood ;
- those at risk of cardiovascular problems.
What are the particular features of Arctic Plankton Oil ?
Unlike standard omega-3 supplements, Arctic Plankton Oil contains several types of fatty acid of exceptional biological richness, and in completely new forms.
- EPA and DHA (a scientifically-supported source of omega-3 (1)). It has been shown that these two compounds cross the blood-brain barrier by means of transport proteins specific to long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (2-3). Several clinical trials have definitively shown that when taken orally, EPA and DHA accumulate in tissues of the central nervous system.
- Cetoleic acid and gondoic acid, two omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acids which have beneficial effects on levels of ‘good’ cholesterol, hypertension and insulin sensitivity. (4).
- Astaxanthin, a remarkable, deep red antioxidant. This powerful compound, which is responsible for the pink colour of prawns, helps protect against the harmful effects of UV rays and plays a role in the anti-inflammatory process (5).
- Stearidonic acid (SDA), a valuable omega-3 fatty acid which is present at significant levels in hemp seeds and spirulina.
A form of omega-3 fatty acid with more powerful effects
Most classic omega-3 come in the form of either triglycerides, ethyl esters or phospholipids. Supplements made from fish oil, such as Super Omega 3, thus contain omega-3 in triglyceride form, while those produced from krill oil (tiny shrimps), like Krill Oil, are in phospholipid form.
In order to use omega-3 chains, the body must first digest them. This takes place in the gut: enzymes called lipases rapidly break down the triglycerides and phospholipids in such a way as to obtain omega-3 chains that can be easily assimilated by the body.
With Arctic Plankton Oil, the process is different. The omega-3 come in the form of ‘wax esters’, a group of fats of which animal waxes are largely composed. This particular form has greater resistance to gut enzymes which means the omega-3 are able to travel further along the digestive tract.
A significant amount of the omega-3 therefore reaches the distal intestine where cell receptors (GPR120) are able to interact with the marine fatty acids. As these receptors influence the production of hormones that control appetite and blood glucose levels, scientists believe that this form of omega-3 offers additional benefits for metabolism(6-7), particularly for insulin sensitivity and intra-abdominal fat deposits. Obviously, fatty acids in the form of wax esters are broken down completely by enzymes and are then able to act as a foundation for the formation of supple cell membranes, the mechanism behind most of the benefits offered by omega-3 supplementation.
What are the recognised benefits of omega-3?
Omega-3, particularly EPA and DHA, are molecules which penetrate the fatty layers that envelope the body’s cells, known as cell membranes. From this strategic site, they influence a wide range of functions.
- Potent anti-inflammatory effect. The incorporation of omega-3 into the body’s cell membranes effectively builds a valuable reserve which at any moment can be converted into anti-inflammatory molecules.
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular problems. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 partly explain their well-documented ability to lower the risk of cardiovascular problems (hypertension, triglyceridaemia, LDL, atheromatous plaques)(8-10). But they are also able to control a large number of genes involved in lipid metabolism.
- Optimisation of cognitive function. In penetrating cell membranes, omega-3 make cells more supple and flexible. Membranes low in omega-3 are thus abnormally rigid, slowing down neurotransmission of information, and impairing neural extension development, synapsis establishment, neural plasticity, learning, maturation of neurons and their migration towards target zones (11).
- Protection of visual function. The DHA in Arctic Plankton Oil represents more than 30% of all the fatty acids present in the retina (12). It is one of the most important compounds constituting the membranes of the outer segments of photoreceptors and needs to be regularly renewed in order to optimise and protect vision (13).
Why choose marine-source omega-3?
In theory, the body is able to produce EPA and DHA from plant-source omega-3 fatty acids, but this source has declined significantly over the last decades due to modern farming methods and changes in our diet (14). What’s more, the rate at which they’re converted is now very low as a result of our inappropriately-high consumption of omega-6 (15). Of far less benefit to the body, these fatty acids are nonetheless ubiquitous in modern processed foods and they mobilise all the enzymes (elongases and desaturases) needed for the conversion of plant-source omega-3s into DHA and EPA.
So if you decided to increase your intake of plant-source omega-3 fatty acids, you would not see any benefits unless you simultaneously made significant cuts to your omega-6 intake. The fact is, we actually need to consume the same amount of plant omega-3 as we do omega-6, but our actual consumption of omega-6 is 15-50 times greater than that of our plant-source omega-3. In excess, omega-6 displace omega-3 and invade cell membranes in their place, resulting in the formation of billions of pro-inflammatory molecules (16-17) which are thought to play a key role in the development and exacerbation of chronic diseases.
This adverse imbalance could be rectified through daily consumption of oily fish rich in EPA and DHA. Unfortunately, however, the level of contamination of these fish and the fact that they’re relatively inaccessible makes this an untenable option... Supplementing with EPA and DHA is thus the simplest and most effective way of rapidly restoring cell membranes to a healthy state.
How is Arctic Plankton Oil produced?
Arctic Plankton Oil is produced from the species Calanus finmarchicus, a minuscule copepod which forms part of marine zooplankton. Measuring less than a millimetre but representing an enormous biological resource (it is without doubt one of the most abundant species on the planet in terms of biomass), Calanus finmarchicus is harvested from the Arctic in strict adherence to both the bioeconomic strategies of Scandinavian countries and the quotas fixed by the Institute of Marine Research. As this species inhabits the lowest trophic levels, there is no risk of the heavy metal contamination typically observed in oily fish.
In the cold waters of the Arctic, which is periodically covered in ice and isolated from pollution, it benefits from an idyllic setting providing the best possible conditions for reproduction and growth .
Click here to see the environment and conditions in which these copepods are harvested: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9X5W03gu7eA&t=7s
What happens to the omega-3 fatty acids once they’re ingested?
Following ingestion and absorption, marine-source omega-3 are incorporated into cell membranes in the form of phospholipids. This is a slow process: Arctic Plankton Oil therefore needs to be taken every day for several weeks or even months in order to fully obtain its benefits.
At the end of the supplementation period, the increased intake in omega-3 will be reflected in the composition of the phospholipid membranes. The NAT-2 study showed that supplementation with omega-3 produced a significant increase (up to 70%) in levels of these fatty acids in membranes. To achieve this, it is advisable to reduce your intake of omega-6 throughout the supplementation period.The cetoleic acid and gondoic acid in Arctic Plankton Oil help reduce the excessive proportion of omega-6 which impairs the body’s use of omega-3.
Five reasons to choose Arctic Plankton Oil
- The biomedical research conducted on Arctic Plankton Oil was carried out by independent scientists at the Arctic University of Norway.
- The development of Arctic Plankton Oil is fully compatible with sustainable harvesting of the huge biological resource represented by Calanus populations.
- Calanus finmarchicus feeds solely on phytoplankton and does not accumulate any heavy metalsunlike oily fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Arctic Plankton Oil contains a rare form of omega-3 with additional benefits for metabolism.
- It also contains several synergistic compounds such as astaxanthin, a remarkable antioxidant which protects fragile omega-3, as well as omega-9 fatty acids that counteract the dominance of omega-6.
How and when should Arctic Plankton Oil be taken?
This supplement should be taken at mealtimes.
The first effects are seen rapidly but it is advisable to take Arctic Plankton Oil for a period of at least three months. As omega-3 fatty acids penetrate cell membranes gradually, the effects continue for several months after supplementation has ceased.
No intolerance issues are associated with taking Calanus oil.
Updated : February 2019
Note: this product should not be used as a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. It’s important to follow the guidelines on how to take it and the recommended dose, and to use it by the ‘best before’ date. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or for children under 15. Keep out of children’s reach. Store in a cool, dry place
References
- Cook, C. M., Larsen, T. S., Derrig, L. D., Kelly, K. M., & Tande, K. S. (2016). Wax Ester Rich Oil From The Marine Crustacean, Calanus finmarchicus, is a Bioavailable Source of EPA and DHA for Human Consumption. Lipids, 51(10), 1137–1144. doi:10.1007/s11745-016-4189-y
- R. W. Mitchell et G. M. Hatch, « Fatty acid transport into the brain : of fatty acid fables and lipid tails », Prostaglandins Leukot. Essent. Fatty Acids, vol. 85, p. 293 302, 2011
- Y. Freund Levi, I. Vedin, T. Cederholm, H. Basun, G. Faxén Irving, M. Eriksdotter, E. Hjorth, M. Schultzberg, B. Vessby, L.-O. Wahlund, N. Salem Jr., et J. Palmblad, « Transfer of omega-3 fatty acids across the blood-brain barrier after dietary supplementation with a docosahexaenoic acid-rich omega-3 fatty acid preparation in patients with Alzheimer’s disease : the omegaAD study », J. Intern. Med., vol. 275, p. 428 436, 2014.
- Dietary monounsaturated Fatty acids are protective against metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease risk factors. Gillingham LG, Harris-Janz S, Jones PJ. Lipids. 2011 Mar;46(3):209-28.
- Guerin M, Huntley ME, Olaizola M. Haematococcus astaxanthin: applications for human health and nutrition. Trends Biotech. 2003; May 21(5):210-216.
- Höper, A. C., Salma, W., Sollie, S. J., Hafstad, A. D., Lund, J., Khalid, A. M., … Larsen, T. S. (2013). Wax Esters from the Marine Copepod Calanus finmarchicus Reduce Diet-Induced Obesity and Obesity-Related Metabolic Disorders in Mice. The Journal of Nutrition, 144(2), 164–169. doi:10.3945/jn.113.182501
- Höper, A. C., Salma, W., Khalid, A. M., Hafstad, A. D., Sollie, S. J., Raa, J., … Aasum, E. (2013). Oil from the marine zooplankton Calanus finmarchicus improves the cardiometabolic phenotype of diet-induced obese mice. British Journal of Nutrition, 110(12), 2186–2193. doi:10.1017/s0007114513001839
- J. L. Breslow, « n-3 Fatty acids and cardiovascular disease », Am. J. Clin. Nutr., vol. 83, p. 1477 1482, 2006
- W. S. Harris, « n-3 Fatty acids and serum lipoproteins : animal studies », Am. J. Clin. Nutr., vol. 65, p. 1611 1616, 1997
- L. Monnier et C. Colette, « Acides gras oméga 3 et pathologie cardiovasculaire : la part du vrai », Médecine Mal. Métaboliques, vol. 5, no 3, p. 269 277, 2011
- M. Lavialle et S. Layé, « Acides gras poly-insaturés (oméga 3, oméga 6) et fonctionnement du système nerveux central », Innov. Agron., vol. 10, p. 25 42, 2010.
- Bretillon, L., Thuret, G., Grégoire, S., Acar, N., Joffre, C., Bron, A.M., Gain, P., CreuzotGarcher, C.P., 2008b. Lipid and fatty acid profile of the retina, retinal pigment epithelium/choroid, and the lacrimal gland, and associations with adipose tissue fatty acids in human subjects. Exp. Eye Res. 87, 521–528. doi:10.1016/j.exer.2008.08.010
- Chong, E.W.-T., Robman, L.D., Simpson, J.A., Hodge, A.M., Aung, K.Z., Dolphin, T.K., English, D.R., Giles, G.G., Guymer, R.H., 2009. Fat consumption and its association with age-related macular degeneration. Arch. Ophthalmol. 127, 674–680. doi:10.1001/archophthalmol.2009.60
- P. Simopoulos, « Omega-6/omega-3 essantial fatty acid ratio and chronic diseases », Food Rev. Int., vol. 20, no 1, p. 77 90, 2004.
- P. Simopoulos, « The omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio : health implications », Ol. Corps Gras Lipides, vol. 17, no 5, p. 267 275, 2010.
- U. Gogus et C. Smith, « n-3 Omega fatty acids : a review of current knowledge », Int. J. Food Sci. Technol., vol. 45, p. 417 436, 2010.
- K. S. Broughton, C. S. Johnson, B. K. Pace, M. Liebman, et K. M. Kleppinger, « Reduced asthma symptoms with n-3 fatty acid ingestion are related to 5-series leukotriene production », Am. J. Clin. Nutr., vol. 65, p. 1011 1017, 1997.
Adults. Take 2 softgels a day. Each softgel contains 500 mg of Calanus® Oil.
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Tensix contains essential nutrients and natural ingredients which act synergistically to help regulate blood pressure. They promote relaxation and dilation of blood vessels as well as renal excretion of sodium, protect against free radicals, and inhibit ACE (angiotensine converting enzyme) activity and production, all mechanisms likely to improve blood pressure.
¤ Studies have shown that :
- fish peptides (Tensideal®) exert a hypotensive effect comparable to that of captopril - a drug widely-used to treat high blood pressure - but without its side-effects. Tensideal® fish peptides act by inhibiting the action of ACE, thus restricting production of angiotensine II, a powerful vasoconstrictor, and as a result, lowering blood pressure. Supplementing with fish peptides for 13 weeks resulted in a clear improvement in blood pressure in mildly hypertensive subjects;
- according to scientific experts, magnesium (magnesium ascorbate) is a natural inhibitor of calcium which counteracts calcium-induced constriction of blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure. Incidence of hypertension and cardiac problems is lower in populations with a high consumption of magnesium-rich foods. Daily supplementation with magnesium has been shown to reduce blood pressure ;
- potassium (potassium ascorbate) stimulates renal excretion of sodium. In hypertensive subjects, increasing potassium consumption is associated with a decrease in blood pressure ;
- vitamin C protects endothelial function. Daily supplementation for three months significantly lowered systolic blood pressure in hypertensive subjects ;
- arginine alpha-ketoglutarate is more bioavailable than arginine, the precursor of nitric oxide. The latter is synthesized in the epithelial cells of artery walls, and exerts a vasodilatory effect, essential for lowering blood pressure ;
- hawthorn leaf extract is believed to affect blood pressure by relaxing and dilating the blood vessels. In mildly-hypertensive subjects, three months' supplementation resulted in a lowering of blood pressure. In diabetics receiving medication to lower blood pressure and/or blood sugar, supplementation had a hypotensive effect ;
- celery seed extract contains ingredients which dilate the blood vessels. They lower blood concentrations of stress hormones which cause the blood vessels to constrict.
Tensix contains essential nutrients and natural ingredients which act synergistically to help regulate blood pressure. They promote relaxation and dilation of blood vessels as well as renal excretion of sodium, protect against free radicals, and inhibit ACE (angiotensine converting enzyme) activity and production, all mechanisms likely to improve blood pressure.
