Nutrient Focus

Watch out - here comes the science. Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of unsaturated fatty acids that have in common a carbon-carbon double bond in the n-3 position. Sometimes called essential fatty acids, nutritionally important Omega-3 fatty acids include a-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaeonic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA and EPA fatty acids are made by microalgae that are present in seawater. Fish consume the acids and as a result, their internal organs contain high levels of both DHA and EPA. Vegetarians can take DHA that has been produced directly from microalgae and, as such, comes from a completely vegetarian source.

• Cancer prevention - Several studies report that regular intake of Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the incidence of cancer, particularly breast, colon and prostate cancer.
• Cardiovascular benefits - There is substantial scientific evidence to demonstrate that Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attack
  and stroke.
• Helps circulatory problems - Many people who suffer with bad circulation benefit from supplements containing EPA and DHA. These super fats not only stimulate blood circulation, but also increase the breakdown of fibrin, the compound that is involved in clot and scar formation.
• Immune function - Research conducted in Denmark found that infants whose formula had been supplemented with fish oils had improved immune function in early childhood.
• Acts as an anti-depressant - Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to help in cases of depression and anxiety.
• Brain health - Omega-3 fatty acids can help to repair damage in the brain by promoting neuronal growth. According to researchers, Omega-3 fatty acids comprise approximately 8% of the average human brain.

• The most common and widely available source of EPA and DHA is cold water, oil-rich fish.
• Salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies and sardines are particularly good sources of Omega-3. Tuna also contains Omega-3, but in lower quantities than found in the fish
  listed above.
• Eggs produced by chickens that have been fed a diet of greens and insects produce higher levels of Omega-3 acids than those eggs that have been laid by their corn - or soybean-guzzling counterparts.
• Flax-seed has been touted as an excellent source of Omega-3s. However, it contains mainly ALA, which has fewer cardiovascular health benefits than other types of fatty acids.