Almega®PL (Microalgae EPA Omega-3 — Qualitas)

Nannochloropsis oculata
Evidence Level
Moderate
1 Clinical Trial
3 Documented Benefits
3/5 Evidence Score

Almega®PL is a vegan omega-3 oil from the microalga Nannochloropsis oculata, made by Qualitas Health. Unusually, it is rich in EPA (rather than the DHA most algae oils provide) and delivers it largely in polar lipid forms (phospholipids and glycolipids) that may aid absorption. It offers a plant-based, fish-free source of the anti-inflammatory omega-3 EPA.

Studied Dose A serving providing roughly 250 mg or more of EPA per day.
Active Compound EPA-rich oil from Nannochloropsis oculata microalgae, delivering eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) bound largely in polar lipids (phospholipids and glycolipids).

Benefits

Vegan EPA omega-3

Almega PL supplies EPA, the omega-3 most associated with anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits, from algae rather than fish, suiting plant-based diets.

Cardiovascular and lipid support

EPA supports healthy triglyceride levels and cardiovascular function, the well-established roles of marine omega-3 fatty acids.

Polar lipid delivery

Because much of the EPA is carried in polar lipids, the oil is studied for favorable absorption and incorporation into the body's omega-3 pool.

Mechanism of action

1

EPA incorporation

EPA is taken up into cell membranes and serves as a precursor to specialized pro-resolving and less-inflammatory signaling molecules.

2

Polar lipid absorption

Phospholipid- and glycolipid-bound EPA may be absorbed efficiently and distributed to tissues, supporting omega-3 status.

Clinical trials

1
Microalgae EPA Oil and Omega-3 Status — Study
PubMed

Study of an EPA-rich extract from the microalga Nannochloropsis on omega-3 status and related outcomes. (Rao et al. 2020, Nutrients)

Healthy adults.

The algal EPA oil raised omega-3 status and was well absorbed, supporting its use as a vegan source of EPA.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

GENERALLY WELL-TOLERATED — mild fishy aftertaste or burping is uncommon with algal oil.
Mild digestive upset can occur at higher doses.
Take with a meal containing fat for best absorption.

Important Drug interactions

Anticoagulants and antiplatelets — high-dose omega-3 may add to bleeding risk; monitor.
Blood pressure medication — omega-3 may have a mild additive effect.
Tell your doctor if you take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder.

Frequently asked questions about Almega®PL (Microalgae EPA Omega-3 — Qualitas)

What is Almega®PL (Microalgae EPA Omega-3 — Qualitas)?

Almega®PL is a vegan omega-3 oil from the microalga Nannochloropsis oculata, made by Qualitas Health. Unusually, it is rich in EPA (rather than the DHA most algae oils provide) and delivers it largely in polar lipid forms (phospholipids and glycolipids) that may aid absorption.

What is the recommended dosage of Almega®PL (Microalgae EPA Omega-3 — Qualitas)?

The clinically studied dose for Almega®PL (Microalgae EPA Omega-3 — Qualitas) is A serving providing roughly 250 mg or more of EPA per day.. Always follow product labeling and consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosing recommendations.

What is Almega®PL (Microalgae EPA Omega-3 — Qualitas) used for?

Almega®PL (Microalgae EPA Omega-3 — Qualitas) is studied for vegan epa omega-3, cardiovascular and lipid support, polar lipid delivery. Almega PL supplies EPA, the omega-3 most associated with anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits, from algae rather than fish, suiting plant-based diets.

Are there side effects from taking Almega®PL (Microalgae EPA Omega-3 — Qualitas)?

Reported potential side effects may include: GENERALLY WELL-TOLERATED — mild fishy aftertaste or burping is uncommon with algal oil. Mild digestive upset can occur at higher doses. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying conditions or take medications.

Is Almega®PL (Microalgae EPA Omega-3 — Qualitas) safe to take?

Whether Almega®PL (Microalgae EPA Omega-3 — Qualitas) is safe depends on the dose, your overall health, and any medications you take. At studied doses, reported side effects can include: GENERALLY WELL-TOLERATED — mild fishy aftertaste or burping is uncommon with algal oil. It may also interact with certain medications. Almega®PL (Microalgae EPA Omega-3 — Qualitas) is not suitable for everyone — consult a healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take prescription medications.

References(1 citations)

Evidence ratings on NutraSmarts are based on the totality of human clinical research, with emphasis on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. The references below directly support claims made throughout this page.

  1. Rao A, Briskey D, Nalley JO, et al. Omega-3 Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) Rich Extract from the Microalga Nannochloropsis Decreases Cytokine-Induced Inflammation. Nutrients. 2020;12(6)..PubMedUsed to support: Study supporting algal EPA omega-3 and anti-inflammatory effect.