Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that provide many health benefits. The two most popular marine sources of omega-3s are fish oil and krill oil. However, a new player has recently entered the arena – arctic ruby oil.
Arctic ruby oil is extracted from a species of zooplankton called Calanus finmarchicus, also known as arctic ruby copepods. These tiny crustaceans inhabit the waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic oceans. Their oil is uniquely rich in omega-3s and antioxidants.
But how exactly does arctic ruby oil compare to regular fish oil and krill oil? Which one provides the most omega-3 bang for your buck? This article will compare and contrast these three omega-3 supplements to help you determine which is best.
A Brief Comparison Table
Aspects | Arctic Ruby Oil | Krill Oil |
Source | Calanus finmarchicus copepod | Antarctic krill |
Omega-3s | 28-40% | 20-30% |
Antioxidants | 2-3x more than krill oil | Astaxanthin |
Sustainability | Eco-certified, selective harvesting | Some concerns about bycatch |
Price | Lower than krill oil | More expensive |
Taste | Mild, fresh | Fishy aftertaste |
What Is Arctic Ruby Oil?
Arctic ruby oil is derived from a species of zooplankton called Calanus finmarchicus, commonly known as the arctic ruby copepod. It’s nicknamed “ruby” because of its bright reddish-orange hue.
These plankton accumulate large amounts of omega-3s and antioxidants from the microalgae they eat. The oil is extracted from the copepods and sold as a nutritional supplement.
The arctic ruby copepod’s habitat is limited to the icy waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic oceans. This is important because the cold, clean waters produce copepod oil with exceptional purity and concentration of omega-3s.
Some key facts about arctic ruby oil:
- Extracted from Calanus finmarchicus copepods
- Sourced from arctic/North Atlantic waters
- Highly concentrated in omega-3s and antioxidants
- Bright red-orange color
- More sustainable than fish oil
Now let’s see how it compares to regular fish oil and krill oil.
Arctic Ruby Oil Vs. Fish Oil
Both fish oil and Calanus oil provide omega-3 fatty acids, primarily EPA and DHA. However, there are some key differences:
Omega-3 content
- Arctic ruby oil contains 28-40% omega-3s by weight, while standard fish oils provide 18-26%.
- The omega-3s in Calanus oil are more concentrated compared to fish oil. You get more omega-3s per gram.
Antioxidants
- Arctic ruby oil is rich in fat-soluble antioxidants like astaxanthin. Fish oil has minimal antioxidants.
- The antioxidants protect the delicate omega-3s from oxidizing and going rancid. This enhances the stability and extends the shelf life of arctic ruby oil.
Contaminants
- Fish can accumulate mercury, PCBs, and other pollutants. Arctic copepods are much lower on the food chain and live in remote northern waters far from contamination sources. So their oil tends to be purer.
- Look for arctic ruby oils that are Friend of the Sea certified sustainable. This verifies minimal contaminants and ecosystem impact.
Color
- Fish oil ranges from yellow to golden brown. Arctic ruby oil is a bright orange-red hue from the natural astaxanthin pigment.
Taste
- Thanks to optimized processing methods, arctic ruby oil has a cleaner, fresher taste than regular fishy-tasting fish oil.
Price
- Arctic ruby oil supplements tend to cost a bit more than basic fish oil capsules. However, you tend to get more omega-3 content per gram, offsetting the higher price.
Overall, arctic ruby oil beats out regular fish oil for omega-3 concentration, antioxidant content, contaminant levels, and taste. It represents an upgraded, superior form of fish oil.
Arctic Ruby Oil Vs. Krill Oil
Like arctic ruby oil, krill oil comes from a small cold-water crustacean. So how do these two marine oils compare? Here are some key differences:
Source
- Arctic ruby oil comes from a copepod, while krill oil comes from Antarctic krill (Euphasia superba).
- Krill are shrimp-like creatures that swim in huge swarms. Copepods are tiny solo drifting organisms.
Omega-3 concentration
- Krill oil contains about 20-30% omega-3s, compared to 28-40% in arctic ruby oil.
- So you get a higher concentration of omega-3 fatty acids in arctic ruby oil.
Antioxidants
- Both oils are rich in carotenoid antioxidants, mainly astaxanthin which gives them the reddish color.
- But some studies show arctic ruby oil has 2-3 times higher antioxidant levels, giving it better stability.
Harvesting impact
- Krill harvesting techniques can sometimes inadvertently catch other species like juvenile fish and whales. This raises sustainability concerns.
- Arctic copepods drift in the ocean as solitary organisms, making them easier to selectively and sustainably harvest.
- Look for eco-certifications like Friend of the Sea to ensure minimal ecosystem impact. Most krill oils lack sustainability certification.
Price
- Krill oil tends to be more expensive than arctic ruby oil for an equivalent amount of omega-3 content. The lower harvest volumes contribute to krill oil’s higher prices.
Taste
- Krill oil is known for its fishy taste and aftertaste. Arctic ruby oil has a milder, fresher taste because it’s processed in a way that removes fishy odor and flavor.
Overall, arctic ruby oil stacks up closely against krill oil but provides higher omega-3 content and superior sustainability at a more competitive price point.
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The Health Benefits Of Arctic Ruby Oil
So what are the main benefits you can expect to gain by taking an arctic ruby oil supplement? Here are some of the top scientifically-proven advantages:
Heart health
Multiple studies confirm that the omega-3s EPA and DHA in arctic ruby oil support cardiovascular wellness in various ways:
- Lower triglycerides and blood pressure
- Reduce arterial plaque and clotting
- Improve circulation and blood vessel elasticity
- Stabilize heart rhythms
- Decrease risk of heart attack and stroke
Brain function
The omega-3 DHA is highly concentrated in brain cell membranes. Getting enough DHA is linked with enhanced cognitive abilities at all ages, including:
- Better memory and focus
- Faster learning
- Improved mood and outlook
- Delayed mental decline
Eye health
DHA is also extremely concentrated in the retina. Consuming arctic ruby oil omega-3s regularly can help protect your eyes as you age, reducing risks of:
- Macular degeneration
- Dry eyes
- Cataracts
- Vision deterioration
Joint comfort
The anti-inflammatory activity of omega-3s can help alleviate joint discomfort and morning stiffness. Arctic ruby oil may aid conditions like:
- Arthritis
- Chronic joint pain
- Exercise-induced soreness
Immunity
Omega-3s support general immune function. The antioxidant astaxanthin in arctic ruby oil is a potent anti-inflammatory that may help relieve respiratory issues.
Skin improvements
The carotenoid antioxidants in Calanus oil can help defend against UV sun damage. Omega-3s support skin hydration and smoothness.
Mental wellbeing
Multiple studies find omega-3s help maintain positive mental health and emotional wellbeing by balancing moods and easing anxiety symptoms.
The beneficial omega-3s in arctic ruby oil provide all these perks and more. And the oil delivers them in a more eco-friendly, pure, and potent form than regular fish oil.
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What’s The Best Way To Take Arctic Ruby Oil?
Arctic ruby oil is available in several forms:
Capsules – This is the most common supplement format. Arctic ruby oil capsules provide a concentrated dosage of omega-3s in an easy swallowable form. Look for high-quality caps made of glass or softgels.
Liquid oil – You can find arctic ruby oil in a liquid form that allows adjusting serving sizes. The oil has a mild flavor and can be taken straight by the spoonful or incorporated into foods like smoothies.
Powder – Some brands provide Calanus oil in a powdered format that mixes easily into drinks or foods without altering taste or texture. This offers more flexibility in dosing.
No matter which form you choose, be sure to follow the dosage directions on the product label. For a typical daily omega-3 supplement, doses range from 300 to 1000 mg.
To enhance absorption, always take arctic ruby oil with a meal that contains some fat or oils. And store your oil supplements properly to maintain freshness. Keep them in the refrigerator or freezer for optimal stability.
Is Arctic Ruby Oil Safe?
When taken appropriately, arctic ruby oil is very safe for most people. Here are some tips for safe usage:
- Follow dosage guidelines and don’t exceed maximums. High doses may increase risks of bleeding or interact with medications.
- Check with your doctor first if you take blood thinners or diabetes medications, are pregnant/nursing, or have a medical condition.
- Look for quality arctic ruby oils that are Friend of the Sea sustainability certified and contaminant tested. Reputable third-party testing verifies purity and lack of heavy metals.
- Keep arctic ruby oil supplements tightly sealed and away from heat, oxygen, and sunlight to prevent oxidation. Discard any rancid smelling oil.
- Rotate usage with other omega-3 sources like fish, flax, algal oils. Variety ensures you get complementary nutrients.
Adhering to these tips will help you safely harness the wellness benefits of arctic ruby oil. Be sure to consult your physician with any other questions or concerns.
Also Read: Choose Between IntraMIN And IntraMAX.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, arctic ruby oil comes from a different source than krill oil. Krill oil comes from Antarctic krill, while arctic ruby oil comes from a copepod species that inhabits the arctic and North Atlantic oceans. They provide similar benefits but arctic ruby oil has higher purity, sustainability, and omega-3 levels.
Calanus and krill oil both come from small cold water crustaceans. But Calanus oil specifically comes from the copepod species Calanus finmarchicus, while krill oil comes from Antarctic krill. They are similar but distinct marine oils.
Yes, arctic krill oil is generally superior to regular fish oil. It has higher antioxidant levels for better stability, a cleaner taste, and fewer contaminants. But arctic ruby oil sourced from Calanus copepods beats both for sustainability, concentration of omega-3s, and overall purity.
Arctic ruby oil provides all the same benefits as fish oil – supporting heart and brain health, immunity, joints, vision, skin, mental wellbeing, and more. It’s a superior choice thanks to higher omega-3 levels, antioxidants, and eco-friendly harvesting methods.
Conclusion
- Arctic ruby oil comes from a copepod species called Calanus finmarchicus that inhabits northern oceans.
- It provides higher omega-3 concentration and better stability than regular fish oil.
- Arctic ruby oil also outcompetes krill oil for sustainability, purity, taste, and affordability.
- Benefits include heart health, brain function, vision protection, joint comfort, immunity, mental wellbeing, and healthier skin.
- Capsules, liquid oil, and powder offer flexible dosing options. Always take with fat for best absorption.
- Arctic ruby oil has an excellent safety profile. Follow dosage guidelines and quality control measures for optimal safety.
So in summary, arctic ruby oil is a superior choice compared to basic fish oil or krill oil supplements. The naturally balanced fatty acid profile, exceptional purity, sustainability, and competitive pricing make arctic ruby oil a wise investment for long-term wellness.