High absorption omega 3 EPA & DHA.
Omega-3 fatty acids, which include eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential components of the human body with profound implications for human health. Some of the key functions of omega-3s in the body include:
Constituents of Cell Membranes:
- Omega-3 fatty acids, especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential components of cell membranes, particularly in the brain and eyes. They contribute to proper cell structure and function, which is vital for the development and maintenance of neural and visual tissues.
Regulation of Inflammation:
- Omega-3s play a key role in regulating the inflammatory system. EPA and DHA fatty acids are precursors to specialized inflammation-resolving mediators, such as resolvins and protectins, which help control and reduce the inflammatory response in the body.
Cardiovascular Health:
- Omega-3 supplementation has been shown to have benefits for cardiovascular health. It helps reduce triglyceride levels, improve endothelial function, lower blood pressure and decrease inflammation, which contributes to the prevention of cardiovascular disease and the promotion of heart health.
Brain and Vision Development:
- During pregnancy and breastfeeding, omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, are essential for brain development and vision in the fetus and infant. Adequate omega-3 intake in childhood has also been associated with improved cognitive performance.
Mood Regulation and Brain Function:
- Omega-3s, especially DHA, are essential components of neuronal membranes and are involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters. It has been suggested that omega-3 supplementation may have positive effects on mental health, including reducing the risk of mood disorders and supporting brain function.
Joint Health:
- Some studies suggest that omega-3s may have beneficial effects on joint health, helping to reduce inflammation in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and improving joint mobility and comfort.
Skin Development and Health:
- Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to skin health by maintaining the integrity of skin cell membranes and reducing inflammation. This can help with conditions such as dermatitis and contribute to healthier skin overall.
Since the human body cannot produce these omega-3 fatty acids in sufficient quantities, it is essential to obtain them through diet or supplements to maintain optimal health.
The clinical effects of using omega-3 are supported by scientific studies and through the same molecular mechanisms in which they are physiologically involved:
-
Modulation of Inflammation:
- Molecular Mechanism: EPA and DHA compete with omega-6 fatty acids, such as arachidonic acid, in the synthesis of eicosanoids. Anti-inflammatory mediators, such as resolvins and protectins, are generated, which help resolve inflammation and reduce the production of prostaglandins and proinflammatory leukotrienes.
- Clinical Effect: Reduction of the systemic inflammatory response, which may be beneficial in chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular diseases.
-
Impact on Cardiovascular Health:
- Molecular Mechanism: Reduction of triglycerides by inhibiting hepatic synthesis and stimulating fatty acid oxidation.
- Clinical Effect: Decreased triglyceride levels, improved endothelial function, reduced blood pressure and decreased platelet aggregation, contributing to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
-
Brain Function and Neuroprotection:
- Molecular Mechanism: Incorporation of DHA into neuronal membranes, influence on synaptic plasticity and modulation of gene expression related to brain function.
- Clinical Effect: Improved cognition, reduced risk of neurodegenerative disorders, and supported mental health.
-
Regulation of Lipid Metabolism:
- Molecular Mechanism: Inhibition of hepatic synthesis of triglycerides and VLDL, stimulation of fatty acid oxidation and increased expression of genes involved in lipid oxidation.
- Clinical Effect: Reduction of triglyceride levels and improvement of lipid composition, which may be beneficial in patients with hypertriglyceridemia.
-
Cardiovascular Risk Reduction:
- Molecular Mechanism: Combined actions in the regulation of lipid profile, inflammation, blood pressure and platelet function.
- Clinical Effect: Reduction in the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction, stroke and cardiovascular death.
-
Improving Cell Membrane Composition:
- Molecular Mechanism: Incorporation of EPA and DHA into cell membranes, improving their fluidity and function.
- Clinical Effect: Benefits to the health of the skin and mucous membranes, as well as improved cellular response to stimuli.
In summary, the clinical effects of omega-3 use are closely linked to the regulation of molecular pathways that impact inflammation, cardiovascular, brain and metabolic function. These underlying mechanisms explain the benefits observed in a variety of clinical conditions and support the recommendation of omega-3 inclusion in the diet and through supplementation.
References
Cholewski, Mateusz, Monika Tomczykowa, and Michał Tomczyk. 2018. “A Comprehensive Review of Chemistry, Sources and Bioavailability of Omega-3 Fatty Acids.” Nutrients 10 (11). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10111662.
Elagizi, Andrew, Carl J. Lavie, Evan O'Keefe, Keri Marshall, James H. O'Keefe, and Richard V. Milani. 2021. “An Update on Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Cardiovascular Health.” Nutrients 13 (1). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13010204.
Shahidi, Fereidoon, and Priyatharini Ambigaipalan. 2018. “Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Their Health Benefits.” Annual Review of Food Science and Technology 9 (March): 345–81.
