{"id":11772,"date":"2022-06-03T11:39:55","date_gmt":"2022-06-03T09:39:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nutridream.eu\/2022\/06\/03\/what-are-omega-3-fatty-acids\/"},"modified":"2022-06-03T11:39:55","modified_gmt":"2022-06-03T09:39:55","slug":"what-are-omega-3-fatty-acids","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nutridream.eu\/en\/2022\/06\/03\/what-are-omega-3-fatty-acids\/","title":{"rendered":"What are omega-3 fatty acids?"},"content":{"rendered":"

What are omega-3 fatty acids?<\/h1>\n
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What are omega-3 fatty acids?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Omega-3 is a polyunsaturated fatty acid with double bonds in the structure. The number in the fatty acid name indicates the location of the first unsaturated bond when starting from the methyl end of the carbon chain. The three main omega-3 fatty acids are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).<\/p>\n

Omega-3 fatty acids are involved in many processes in our body. The most important of these are the production of eicosanoids and participation in inflammatory processes. Compared to omega-6 fatty acids, omega-3 has anti-inflammatory properties.<\/p>\n

Why do I need omega-3? What are the benefits of consuming it? How do the benefits manifest?<\/strong><\/p>\n

It is very important to get omega-3 fatty acids from food. There is very little conversion of ALA to EPA and DHA in the liver. ALA can be obtained from vegetable materials such as flax, soybean and rapeseed oil. EPA and DHA are synthesized by microphytes, or small aquatic plants that are eaten by phytoplankton and fish. This is why a lot of EPA and DHA is found in fish and fish oil.<\/p>\n

A meta-analysis has shown a positive effect of omega-3 fatty acids on heart rate and a reduction in cardiovascular mortality, which is why the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommends consuming at least 250 mg of EPA and DHA per day. However, it is important to get at least 250 mg of DHA a day for vision and heartbeat. Of the omega-3 fatty acids in the brain, DHA is the most abundant and plays an important role in the nerve cell membrane. Some studies have also shown that omega-3 fatty acids have a neuroprotective effect on aging and the development of neurodegenerative diseases. DHA is also abundant in retinal photoreceptors, making it important in supporting visual function.<\/p>\n

What are the signs of omega-3 deficiency and its consequences? Who should consume fish oil?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Omega-3 deficiency may include dryness and irritability of the skin, low mood, dryness and itching of the eyes, inflammatory processes, and high blood pressure.<\/p>\n

Fish oil should be consumed by those who do not eat enough fish to restore the balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-6 has anti-inflammatory and omega-3 anti-inflammatory properties. It is also recommended that pregnant women take omega-3 fatty acids, as omega-3 is important for the development of the baby’s brain and vision.<\/p>\n

When should I take fish oil?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Fish oil can be taken at any time, but it should be done consistently. It is recommended to consume fish oil with food, as it increases the absorption of omega-3 fatty acids, especially in the less absorbable form.<\/p>\n

How to choose a product?<\/strong><\/p>\n