Omega 3 is a family of long-chain fatty acids found abundantly in, for example, certain types of algae, chia seeds, flaxseeds, fatty fish & krill. It is important to get enough omega 3 because the body cannot produce it on its own. It is also important to maintain a good balance between omega 3 and omega 6 in the diet.
Unlike saturated fat, omega fatty acids are liquid and can easily become rancid if not protected from too much air, light, and temperature changes.
What are EPA & DHA?
EPA and DHA are two long-chain fatty acids that belong to the omega-3 family. They are considered essential for good health and are usually the ones referred to when talking about the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.
In nature, there are mainly three different forms of omega 3 fatty acids
- EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid): Long-chain omega-3 primarily associated with heart and vascular health. Found abundantly in fatty fish, krill, and certain algae.
- DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid): Long-chain omega-3 associated with the health of the brain, eyes, and nervous system, as well as heart and vascular health. Found abundantly in wild-caught fatty fish, krill, and certain algae.
- ALA (Alpha-linolenic acid): Found in land-based plant sources of omega-3, such as flaxseed, chia seeds, or walnuts. ALA is used as an energy source in the body and can be converted to EPA and/or DHA as needed, but only to a limited extent and depending on several other health factors.
Why is EPA & DHA important?
When a nutrient is called "essential," it means the body cannot produce it itself and must obtain it through food or supplements. Omega-3 belongs to the group of essential fatty acids.
DHA and EPA are the most studied forms of omega-3 and are associated with the most health benefits. A deficiency in omega-3 can lead to problems such as increased inflammation in the body, low mood, high blood pressure, impaired blood flow, and in some cases stiffness and pain in muscles and joints.
What do EPA & DHA contribute?
A good balance of EPA and DHA supports normal heart function, normal brain function, and normal vision. Therefore, it is important to get enough.
- A daily intake of 250 mg DHA contributes to maintaining normal brain function and normal vision.
- A daily intake of 250 mg EPA and DHA contributes to the normal function of the heart.
How do you get EPA & DHA?
From foods especially rich in EPA and DHA such as:
- Seaweed and algae.
- Fatty fish and krill.
- Or through dietary supplements.
- Other plant-based sources of omega-3, such as flaxseed oil, chia seeds, or walnuts. These primarily contain ALA, which, as mentioned, is converted in limited amounts to EPA and DHA in the body. This conversion varies greatly from person to person. It depends on several factors, such as the balance between omega-6 and omega-3 in the diet, health status, and physical activity level.
For most people, it can therefore be a good idea to consume "ready-made" EPA and DHA fatty acids to ensure good availability in the body.
Animal or plant-based omega-3?
There is a myth that omega-3 from fish oil is somehow better than other forms. One important fact to know is that fatty fish like salmon or herring do not produce EPA and DHA themselves; they get them from seaweed and algae they eat.
Considering the risk of overfishing the oceans, as well as exposure to heavy metals and plastic residues now found in those who eat large amounts of fish, we at Glimja prefer to go directly to the source and consume oil from algae instead of taking the detour via fish. It is kinder and safer for everyone involved.
Algal oil is suitable for everyone who does not eat fish or shellfish, is pregnant, vegetarian or vegan, or simply cares about the environment. Algal oil is an excellent alternative to meet the daily need for omega-3. In fact, it stands out as one of the few plant-based sources of omega-3 that contains both EPA and DHA.
Buy pure, plant-based, and high-quality EPA & DHA
