Omega 3 is a polyunsaturated fatty acid that is primarily known for being anti-inflammatory. Recent years of research on cardiovascular diseases has shown that omega-3 fatty acids protect against cardiovascular diseases, improve hormone and enzyme functions, and play an important role in maintaining healthy brain and nerve function as well as vision. Teeth, skin, reproductive organs, and joints also need omega 3.
The Balance Between Omega 3 and Omega 6
Omega 3 needs to be in balance with omega 6, which instead increases inflammation as part of our immune system. Unfortunately, omega 3 is often too low in relation to omega 6, and therefore we need to ensure we get more omega 3 in our diet. Both are essential fatty acids, however, so we need both.
Omega 3 in the Form of DHA and EPA
DHA and EPA are two forms of omega-3 that have the health properties that have made omega 3 so well-known. Alpha-linolenic acid, ALA, which is the omega-3 found in flaxseed for example, does not have the same properties but must be converted in the body to DHA and EPA, and this requires a whole host of B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, and so on. And ultimately, only about 5% is converted to DHA and EPA!
ALA is found in flaxseed oil, hemp oil, canola oil, soybean oil, walnuts, and dark green vegetables. EPA and DHA are found in fatty fish such as salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines, krill, and herring, in fish liver oil, and in certain algae! Fish do not produce omega-3 fatty acids themselves but obtain them by eating microalgae.
EPA's Function
EPA has been shown to make blood thinner and less prone to coagulation. This in turn reduces the risk of buildup of deposits on blood vessel walls and blood clots, which block the important blood supply pathways to vital organs and body parts. In 90 percent of cases, heart attacks occur only after blood coagulation has blocked an important artery.
In our processed food, omega-3 fatty acids are usually missing unless we eat salmon, sardines, mackerel, or herring several times a week, and of course reduce our intake of fast food and junk food. The best and most effective way to get these fatty acids is then through supplements.
The optimal EPA supplement also contains DHA. This fatty acid makes EPA work more effectively.
DHA's Function
The brain's gray matter consists of one-third long fatty acids, primarily DHA. DHA reduces blood viscosity. DHA can be partially converted to EPA in humans. DHA reduces elevated triglycerides and contributes to increasing HDL cholesterol. It is also important for normal nerve function and plays an important role in the structural development of neural and synaptic membranes.
DHA reduces the flow of excess sodium and calcium in nerve cells and protects nerve cells. DHA helps regulate the balance of arachidonic acid in the body as well as the fluid balance in cells.DHA also has a positive impact on eye function, learning, and memory. DHA's contribution to healthy brain development occurs primarily
It is also known as a substance that reduces aggressive behavior, reduces depression and reduces dementia symptoms, and improves vision.
DHA reduces noradrenalin. It is a synergistic substance to EPA and usually occurs in a ratio of 2:3 to EPA. DHA occurs in various combinations with other fatty acids, e.g. EPA, GLA, and AA for tailored purposes, e.g. to help develop a healthy brain in infants, to reduce ADHD symptoms, improve dyslexia and brain function.
Omega 3 Deficiency
With omega 3 deficiency, one may notice dry and/or rough skin, scalp sores, and brittle nails. Depression and fatigue are also thought to be linked to deficiency of the omega 3 fats EPA and DHA.
Omega 3 Supplements
The major problem with fish consumption is the presence of heavy metals, primarily mercury, as well as chemicals, primarily PCBs. Therefore, one should choose high-quality supplements where you know the oil is effective and not contaminated.
The National Food Agency recommends eating fish two to three times per week, including fatty fish once. If you are vegan, have a fish allergy, or simply don't like fish or don't eat enough of it, it becomes tricky to obtain adequate amounts of DHA and EPA, and therefore you may need to supplement your diet with omega 3 supplements.
A plant-based alternative to fish oil is an oil based on algae. Opti3 is extracted from the microalga Schizochytrium, which has a high content of the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. Algae oil is the only plant-based source of these fatty acids.
Opti3
Opti3 is cultivated under controlled conditions in stainless steel tanks. When the algae cells are mature, they burst through an enzymatic process to release the oil, and this oil is then separated from the water and cell biomass. The manufacturer does not use solvents or chemicals in the process; it is physical separation. They add antioxidants to protect the oil – these are also natural.
Opti3 can be obtained as capsules, or you can choose Opti3 Liquid if you don't like capsules. It is liquid algae omega 3 in olive oil with a touch of natural orange flavor.
Opti3 is perfect for the whole family, including children, vegetarians, vegans, and pregnant women. 150 ml liquid that lasts for 30 days.
Opti3 Complete Omega 3
Opti3 Omega-3 EPA & DHA Liquid
Who Is It Suitable For?
An omega-3 supplement based on algae can be taken by everyone, both vegans and those with fish allergies, as well as children. Pregnant women may also need extra omega-3 since it contributes to normal vision development and normal brain development in fetuses and breastfed infants.
If you have capsules at home but only want to access the oil, you can puncture the capsule and squeeze out the oil either onto a spoon or mix it into food. It is also common for Opti3 to be given to cats and dogs by squeezing the oil into the pets' food.
Dosage
Optimal Daily Intake (ODI) for an adult is 250–600 mg EPA. The usual recommended dosage is 600–700 mg EPA and 400–500 mg DHA.
Who Should Not Take Omega 3?
People with bleeding disorders or problems with blood that is too thin should be cautious. Blood coagulation times are prolonged when taking large doses of EPA/DHA.
Certain people who bleed easily, such as nosebleeds, may react, and people with severe kidney insufficiency or heart problems should also be cautious and ask their doctor beforehand. Especially if you are taking blood-thinning medications.
More Safe & Vegan Omega 3 Supplements Are Available!
Vimergy Vegan Omega 3, 90 capsules
Helhetshälsa AlgOmega3 Cold-Pressed
MaryRuth's Vegan Liquid Omega-3
