Marine phytoplankton
The microalgae at the base of the entire ocean food chain. Dense in trace minerals, EPA, and bioavailable nutrients — though clinical evidence is thin compared to spirulina / chlorella.
Strong nutrient density on paper. Limited human trial data — most evidence is anecdotal. Some small studies on EPA delivery and immune support. Effects: 4–12 weeks (subjective).
Marine phytoplankton are microscopic algae and cyanobacteria that produce roughly half of all oxygen on Earth and form the base of the ocean food web. As a supplement they're concentrated single-cell organisms (most commonly Nannochloropsis or Tetraselmis species) cultivated in clean photobioreactors. Marketed for their complete nutrient profile (every essential amino acid, EPA omega-3, trace minerals, carotenoids, chlorophyll). Anecdotal energy and wellbeing benefits are strong; rigorous clinical evidence is limited. Treat as a 'green superfood' alongside spirulina and chlorella rather than a precision therapeutic.
- Form
- Liquid (Oceans Alive) or powder from photobioreactor cultivation. Quality varies — look for traceable single-strain products.
- Dose
- Per product label (typically 1–3 ml liquid or 500–2,000 mg powder daily).
- Timing
- AM, empty stomach (away from food).
- Schedule
- Daily.
- Side effects
- Generally well-tolerated. Mild GI upset rare. Some report initial 'detox' feeling.
- Interactions
- Generally clean. Theoretical iodine content can interact with thyroid medication at high doses.
- Contraindications
- Algae / seafood allergy. Pregnancy / breastfeeding (limited safety data).
- Lab markers
- Not standard.
- Food sources
- Marine phytoplankton are not directly consumed as food in Western diets — fish and shellfish carry the EPA up the food chain to us.
Pairs with
Chlorella, spirulina (broader algae stack). Omega-3 from fish oil if absolute EPA dose is the goal.
within Algae, sea & superfoods