When it comes to joint comfort in dogs, omega-3s are now recognized as valuable allies. Their natural anti-inflammatory effect, particularly via EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), is well documented. But what is less well known is that their effectiveness also depends on... their molecular form. Phospholipids or triglycerides? These two structures play a key role in theassimilation of omega-3, and therefore in their effect on joint mobility.
So, what's the best form of omega-3 for your dog? A closer look.
What are triglycerides and phospholipids?
triglycerides are the natural form in which the majority of fats in food are found. A triglyceride is a molecule composed of three fatty acids attached to a structure called glycerolThis form is very common in fish oils or classic vegetable oils.
phospholipids, on the other hand, are slightly different lipids. They contain only two fatty acids, but their structure is completed by a phosphate group hydrophilic, which makes them amphiphilic: one part likes water, the other repels it.
It is this amphiphilic structure—both hydrophilic (attracts water) and hydrophobic (repels water)—that allows phospholipids to naturally organize themselves into lipid bilayers, constituting the basic structure of the cell membranes in all living beings, including dogs.
This natural affinity with biological membranes partly explains their excellent bioavailability : during digestion, phospholipids are easily integrated into the micelles, these structures that transport fats across the intestinal wall. The result: faster and more efficient absorption of omega-3s, even at low doses.
In other words, the dog's body recognizes and uses omega-3s more easily in phospholipid form, because they speak the same language as its cells.
What the Science Says: Omega-3 Absorption and Effectiveness
Several studies have compared the body's ability to absorb omega-3s depending on their form. Result: phospholipids are generally better assimilated than triglycerides.
A clinical study published in Lipids in Health and Disease (Schuchardt et al., 2011) showed that krill oil (rich in omega-3 in the form of phospholipids) allowed a significantly higher incorporation of EPA and DHA into cell membranes than omega-3 in the form of triglycerides or ethyl esters.
Another study, conducted by Köhler et al. (2015), observed that phospholipids from krill oil were absorbed more quickly and efficiently than conventional triglycerides, even at equivalent doses.
In animals, research published in Nutrition & Metabolism (Rossmeisl et al., 2012) showed that omega-3 in phospholipid form exerted more marked anti-inflammatory and metabolic effects than those in triglycerides. This result is particularly interesting in the context of joint disorders, often associated with chronic inflammatory processes.
For further : What are Omega-3 EPA and DHA?
Phospholipids, triglycerides… and green-lipped mussel oil?
La New Zealand green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) is one of the most powerful natural sources of omega-3 to support joint function in dogs. It naturally contains a unique spectrum of fatty acids—EPA, DHA, and also ETA (eicosatetraenoic acid), with anti-inflammatory effects recognized by veterinary science.
But not all green mussels are created equal. extraction form plays a decisive role here.
Green-lipped mussel oil obtained by supercritical CO₂ extraction is one of the few to preserve omega-3 in phospholipid formThis cold, solvent-free process preserves the integrity of the molecules, particularly the phospholipids, which are more fragile than the triglycerides.
For further : Green mussel: a natural remedy for osteoarthritis
For optimal and natural joint support
At SENSILIA, we have chosen to concentrate our range PERNIXOL® on the rich, highly assimilable and natural sources of omega-3 : supercritical CO₂ extracted green lipped mussel oil (phospholipids) and marine algae oil (concentrated DHA). Two ingredients carefully selected for their bioavailabilityTheir purity, and their positive impact on joint comfort of the dog, at all ages.
A simple-to-administer liquid formula, designed to support your dog's daily movements, without overloading, without artifice, and always with a requirement for naturalness.
Bibliography
- Schuchardt JP, et al. (2011). Incorporation of EPA and DHA into plasma phospholipids in humans consuming omega-3 fatty acids in triglyceride or phospholipid form. Lipids Health Dis.
- Köhler A, et al. (2015). Bioavailability of omega-3 fatty acids from krill oil, fish oil, and krill meals in healthy volunteers. Lipids Health Dis.
- Burri L, et al. (2012). Marine omega-3 phospholipids: metabolism and biological activities. Mar Drugs.
- Rossmeisl M, et al. (2012). Omega-3 phospholipids from krill oil exert beneficial effects in experimental metabolic syndrome. Nutr Metab (London).
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