Are Spirulina & Fish Oil Safe If Taken Together?

If you are vegan, vegetarian or don't like the smell and taste of fish oil, spirulina, a sea algae, is an excellent alternative for securing sufficient omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. While one or the other is typically chosen, consuming small amounts of spirulina and fish oil at the same time should be safe. The nutritional value they each offer is very different aside from the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Understanding the similarities and differences between the two helps you make an informed choice.

Fat and Calories

Spirulina and fish oil are both good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Spirulina is 7 percent fat by weight. This low-fat nutritional food has a calorie count of approximately 36 calories per tablespoon. Cod liver oil's calorie count is approximately 135 calories per tablespoon. The total fat content of a 15-gram portion, or 1 tablespoon, of cod liver oil is 15 grams, or virtually 100 percent fat.

Protein and Carbohydrates

Most of spirulina's calories come from protein. Spirulina contains a high protein content and is considered a complete protein. It is approximately 65 percent protein. Carbohydrates make up about 15 to 25 percent of dry spirulina weight. Fish oil, however, contains no measurable protein or carbohydrates.

Vitamins and Minerals

Cod liver oil is a good source of vitamins A and D but contains no other measurable amounts of vitamins or minerals. Spirulina contains vitamins, minerals, digestive enzymes, amino acids and phytonutrients. It is a good source of vitamins E, C and B, calcium, pantothenic acid, magnesium and potassium. It is an excellent source of thiamine, niacin, iron, copper, riboflavin and manganese. While spirulina is usually free of side effects, fish oil may cause indigestion and gas in some people.

Miscellaneous

Spirulina contains approximately 1.3 milligrams of cholesterol per tablespoon compared to 87 milligrams of cholesterol in a tablespoon of cod liver oil. Both fish oil and spirulina have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Sodium is absent from fish oil, but spirulina is high in sodium.