The Unique Benefits of Seal Oil: Nature’s Arctic Omega-3

Omega-3s are essential for health, but not all sources are the same. While fish oil has long been the go-to for omega-3 supplementation, seal oil is quickly gaining attention as a powerful alternative—especially for those seeking a more complete and bioavailable option.
Disclaimer: This content is intended solely for informational and educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Table of Contents
- What Is Seal Oil?
- Seal Oil vs Fish Oil: What Sets It Apart?
- Health Benefits of Seal Oil
- Heart Health
- Brain Function
- Joint and Inflammation Support
- How to Take Seal Oil Safely
- Key Takeaways
- Conclusion
- References
What Is Seal Oil?
Harp, grey, or hooded seals' fat is used to make seal oil. These seals live in cold water in the North Atlantic and Arctic. Seal oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, just like fish oil. However, it also has docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), which is not found in fish oil. This third omega-3 fatty acid, together with EPA and DHA, has unique biological benefits that could make the oil work better for human health.
Seal Oil vs Fish Oil: What Sets It Apart?
Seal oil has all three main omega-3s: EPA, DHA, and DPA. Most fish oils don't have much DPA. This means that seal oil has more anti-inflammatory and heart health effects.
Also, the way the fatty acids in seal oil are arranged is more like the membranes of human cells, which may help absorption. Seals are mammals, which means that their oil is easier for our bodies to use, especially in the brain and heart. Fish, on the other hand, are not mammals.
Digestion is another big difference. Seal oil is a better choice for frequent use because many people say it doesn't cause as many problems, like fishy burps or aftertaste, like fish oil does.
Health Benefits of Seal Oil
Heart Health
Studies have demonstrated that seal oil lowers triglyceride levels, raises cholesterol ratios, and increases artery flexibility. DPA seems to provide better protection against plaque development in the arteries, especially. DPA may change into either EPA or DHA when the body needs it, which gives the body more options for how to use omega-3s.
Omega-3s from seal oil also help keep your heart beating steadily and may lower your risk of arrhythmias and unexpected cardiac events. This makes it a wonderful alternative for people who already have or are at risk for heart disease.
Brain Function
DHA, one of the main fatty acids in seal oil, is a big element of what makes up our brains. DHA is essential for brain growth, thinking, and feeling well.
Studies indicate that omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in seal oil, enhance memory, attention, and mood management. For older folks, getting enough may slow down cognitive decline and help the brain stay flexible, which means it can change and heal itself.
Joint and Inflammation Support
Inflammation is the root cause of many long-term health problems, including arthritis and autoimmune illnesses. Studies have demonstrated that seal oil's high levels of EPA, DHA, and DPA can lower inflammatory indicators and potentially alleviate joint pain, edema, and stiffness.
Adding seal oil to the daily routine of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis could help them feel better without the stomach problems that some anti-inflammatory drugs can cause.
How to Take Seal Oil Safely
Softgel or liquid form is the most common way to get seal oil. Most adults take between 500 mg and 1,000 mg of EPA, DHA, and DPA each day.
It's best to start with a smaller dose and work your way up, just as with any other supplement. Before starting, pregnant women, those on blood thinners, and people with long-term health problems should talk to a doctor.
Select a seal oil supplement that sustainably harvests, molecularly distills, and undergoes quality verification by a third party. To be sure you get the best oils, look for ones that are wild-caught and come from Canada.
Key Takeaways
Seal oil is a great source of omega-3s that your body can easily absorb, and it also has DPA. This makes it a strong ally for:
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Cardiovascular protection
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Brain function and mood
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Reducing inflammation and supporting joint health
Its mammalian origin may also result in better absorption and fewer digestive issues compared to fish oil.
Conclusion
Seal oil is worth your time if you want a more complete and maybe more effective omega-3 supplement. It helps many parts of health, but mainly the heart, brain, and joints, because it has a unique DPA content and is easy for the body to absorb.
Adding seal oil to your daily routine could be a good idea if you want to clear your mind, ease joint pain, or boost your heart health over the long run. As usual, talk to your doctor to determine whether this is right for you.
References and Resources
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Office of Dietary Supplements - Omega-3 Fatty Acids. ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-HealthProfessional.
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FISH OIL: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews. www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-993/fish-oil.
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“Seal Oil Vs. Fish Oil | Choose Wisely | Canadian Seal Product.” Canadian Seal Product, 5 Aug. 2021, canadiansealproducts.com/products/seal-oil/seal-oil-vs-fish-oil.
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“Omega-3 Supplements: What You Need to Know.” NCCIH, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/omega3-supplements-what-you-need-to-know.
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Von Schacky, Clemens, and William S. Harris. “Why Docosapentaenoic Acid Is Not Included in the Omega-3 Index.” Prostaglandins Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids, vol. 135, June 2018, pp. 18–21. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plefa.2018.06.003.