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Even though they are termed “essential” fatty acids (EFA), our body cannot produce omega 6 (linoleic acid: LA) and omega 3 (alpha-linolenic acid: ALA) on its own.
As a result, one needs to supplement it or consume it through their diet. And while considering EFA supplements, it is hard not to think about fish oil, the reigning king of readily available EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid). However, in recent times, fish oil has landed in troubled waters, given that a whopping 70% of the world’s fishes are wholly exploited or depleted and are heading towards extinction.
Meanwhile, as the prohibition and persecution against the use of hemp become lax, it is slowly but gradually emerging as a sustainable and more attractive option for meeting your EFA goals. The fact that hemp contains 104% more polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) than fish oil tips the scale in its favor.
With options comes confusion and uncertainty. In essence, we are posed with the burning question:hemp oil vs. fish oil.Which one is better? And which one should you use?
Let’s take a look.
As the name indicates, hemp oil or hemp seed oil is derived from hemp - seeds of theCannabis sativa plant. It contains little to no cannabidiol (CBD) and is devoid of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). As a result, it does not trigger any psychoactive effects associated with otherCannabis sativa products. However, hemp oil does possess an impressive profile of various minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, bioactive compounds, and other nutrients that impart a host of health benefits.
Hemp oil is typically associated with the following health benefits:
Until recent times, fish oil was one of the leading dietary supplements consumed by individuals who wished to up their intake of healthy fats. Fish oil is essentially the fats or oil present in fish tissues. It is usually derived from oily fishes, such as tuna, mackerel, anchovies, and herring. Fish oil is a rich source of omega-3s and even contains traces of vitamins A and D.
Fish oil is generally associated with the following health benefits:
Here is a quick overview of the comparison betweenhemp oil vs. fish oil:
|
Hemp Oil |
Fish Oil |
|
|
Source |
Derived from plants |
Animal-based oil |
|
Extraction Process |
Cold-pressed from hempseeds |
Fish oil is heat-treated |
|
Taste |
The light, earthy, and nutty taste |
While fish oil itself may not have any remarkable taste, it leaves behind a fishy aftertaste. |
|
Odor |
In its purest state, hemp oil does not possess any distinct smell |
It has an overpowering odor of seafood, which can permeate through your skin and cause bad breath |
|
Fatty Oils |
Rich in omegas 3 (ALA), 6 (GLA), and 9 (Oleic acid) |
Rich in omega 3 (EPA and DHA) only |
|
Stability |
It contains antioxidants, which makes it more stable and inert |
Can spoil quickly due to oxidation |
|
Purity |
Free from pesticides and tested for contaminants |
It may contain mercury, heavy metals, plastic, or other pollutants pervasive in the sea. |
|
Impact on Environment |
Cultivation of hemp is sustainable and eco-friendly |
Can upset aquatic ecosystem, primarily due to overfishing or unsustainable practices |
|
Digestability |
Less saturated, hence can be digested easily |
Highly saturated, which could cause digestive distress |
|
Side Effects |
Has no significant side effect; at most, one may experience loose stools |
Body odor, reflux, diarrhea, belching, rashes, and halitosis |
|
Nutritional Uptake |
Highly absorbable through ingestion or topical application |
Limited absorbability, especially during topical application |
From the comparison in the previous section, hemp oil emerges as a clear winner.
In continuation, it is worth mentioning that hemp oil contains a few additional advantages over fish oil that may not have been tabulated above.
For instance, hemp seed oil not only contains a more significant number of fatty acids, namely, omegas 3, 6, and 9, but it also contains them in higher concentrations and in the correct ratio (omega-6 is to omega-3 ratio must be 3:1 for optimal absorption). Thus, even the nature of the fatty acids available in hemp oil is far superior and digestible, and with a longer shelf-life.
Similarly, as a plant-based source, the hemp seed oil is rich in phytosterols, phenols, terpenes, amino acids (all 8 of them), and other bioactive compounds that can promote health and wellness by reducing oxidative stress.
Thus, it is safe to say that hemp oil is better than fish oil in more ways than one.
As the stigma surrounding hemp oil begins to dissolve, consumers realize that it is a more value-loaded option. This proposition increases by many folds on the environmental front, especially in comparison to fish oil, leaving a far-reaching imprint on sea ecology. Plus, hemp oil is, in general, a healthier option in holistic ways.
So make the safer and smarter choice with hemp seed oil.
