For years, omega-3 fatty acids have been recognized as an essential part of a healthy diet, supporting proper heart, brain and immune system function. Their regular supply in the diet or through supplementation can provide numerous health benefits, including protecting cells from oxidative stress. Find out exactly what omega-3 fatty acids are, their properties and applications in various industries and forms of supplementation.
What are omega-3 acids and why are they essential?
Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that the human body is unable to produce in sufficient amounts on its own. This is why we say that they are so-called EFAs, or essential fatty acids. In this group, the most important are:
- α-linolenic acid (ALA), found mainly in vegetable oils and some seeds,
- eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA),
- docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
EPA and DHA – essential support for health and development
EPA and DHAacids are mainly found in oily fish and fish oils. Review studies and meta-analyses have reported that their supplementation by pregnant women is associated with beneficial effects on fetal development – DHA supports brain and retinal development in the fetus, and higher levels of these acids in the mother may be associated with a lower risk of premature birth.
In addition, EPA and DHA have been shown to modulate the immune system: they build into the membranes of immune cells, reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promote an anti-inflammatory response. What’s more, their effects on the cardiovascular system are well documented – EPA and DHA lower triglyceride levels, support endothelial function and have anti-inflammatory and anti-arrhythmic properties. That’s why it’s worth taking an interest in what omega-3s are and the benefits they can provide – both in the diet and through supplementation.
Origins and production – how is “good” omega-3 made?
The raw material for the production of high-quality omega-3 fatty acids is usually fatty fish (such as salmon, mackerel, sardines) or specialized fish oils, in which EPA and DHA content is standardized.
During the production process, the raw oil undergoes purification (removal of impurities, heavy metals), degreasing and then formulation in the appropriate dosage. This makes it possible to achieve high purity and stability of the product. Plant-derived supplements (e.g., from algae) are also appearing on the market – an indication of the growing interest in alternatives. In the manufacturing process, the standard goal is to achieve a minimum TOTOX (oil oxidation index) and ensure that the capsule contains a certain amount of EPA DHA.
In the case of a formula like Foodcom Omega-3, the supplement contains fish oil rich in EPA and DHA and vitamin E (which protects cells from oxidative stress). The product contains no artificial colors or preservatives.
Properties and benefits of omega-3 – what to look out for?
The benefits of ensuring an adequate supply of omega-3 fatty acids are multifaceted. First, EPA and DHA are part of cell membranes, affecting their fluidity and receptor function. Second, studies show beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system – including lowering blood triglyceride levels, improving endothelial function, and anti-inflammatory effects.
What’s more, omega-3 fatty acids support the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system. DHA is particularly important for cognitive function and retinal structure. It should also be added that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids can be considered where it is difficult to achieve adequate amounts of EPA and DHA from the diet – for example, in people who do not consume fatty fish or in groups with increased demand.
Supplements from Foodcom are high-quality products, available in convenient capsule form and suitable for daily supplementation. What exactly is Foodcom Omega-3? Each capsule contains about 1,000 mg of fish oil, including 500 mg of EPA and 250 mg of DHA, as well as 4 mg of vitamin E (33% of RWS), which is a concrete and convenient way to deliver these acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids – applications in various industries
Omega-3 acids are used not only in the context of human health, but also in various food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. In the food sector, omega-3-rich oils are added to functional foods (such as yogurts, margarines and other supplements) to enrich consumers’ diets with EPA/DHA.
In pharmaceuticals, preparations containing high doses of EPA and DHA are used to support the treatment of hyperlipidemia (high triglycerides) or inflammation. In cosmetics, on the other hand, omega-3s are appreciated for their effects on skin condition. How do they work? First of all, they rebuild the lipid barrier, have anti-inflammatory effects, and provide support in the fight against signs of skin aging.
Supplementation of omega-3 – what to remember?
From the point of view of supplementation, Foodcom Omega-3 meets both the needs of private (health-conscious) consumers and, after prior consultation with a doctor, can be used in the dietary programs of physically active people or seniors.
On the FDCM.eu platform you will find high-quality supplements from Foodcom, including Foodcom Omega-3. When choosing a product with omega-3 acids, pay attention:
- ePA DHA content (the higher, the more effective the dose),
- the origin of the fish oil – highly purified, tested for heavy metals,
- capsule form – natural or re-esterified triglycerides, which are better absorbed,
- stability and quality – oxidation indices, freshness of the product, absence of unpleasant odor,
- certifications or independent testing.
The recommended base dose for a healthy person is a minimum of ~250 mg of EPA DHA per day, although a higher dose may be needed for certain conditions.
Omega-3 fatty acids – key to heart, brain and immune health
Omega-3 fatty acids are an extremely important part of nutrition – their properties, such as supporting cardiovascular, brain, immune and anti-inflammatory functions, make them an ingredient of not only dietary, but also therapeutic importance. If you are looking for a specific product, Foodcom Omega-3 offers a standardized formula with a high content of EPA and DHA and the addition of vitamin E.
Remember that benefits are achieved through a regular supply of omega-3 fatty acids, preferably in combination with a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Supplementation, on the other hand, is a valuable support, but not a substitute for a holistic approach to health.
