Omega-3s are essential polyunsaturated fatty acids, meaning a type of fat that our bodies cannot produce on their own and that we must therefore obtain externally through our diet. They therefore play an important role in maintaining good health.
What are the benefits of omega-3s?
- They protect the cardiovascular system: they help reduce triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the blood, prevent blood clots from forming, have vasodilating properties and help regulate blood pressure.
- They are anti-inflammatory: they prevent excessive immune system reactions responsible for chronic inflammation, which can damage the body's tissues.
- They have a protective effect on the brain: studies show that fatty acids protect cognitive function by promoting communication between brain cells and optimizing neurotransmitter function.
- They help prevent depression and anxiety disorders: they contribute to the production of serotonin, the “happiness hormone,” and their anti-inflammatory effect helps regulate and inhibit the immune response associated with depression.
- They improve vision: it appears that a deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids may be involved in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in older people.
The best sources
There are 3 types of omega-3s: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Plant sources include flaxseed oil, rapeseed oil, camelina oil and walnut oil. EPA and DHA fatty acids are found in large quantities in oily fish - salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines.
Discover our vitamin, plant and mineral formulas containing omega-3s. Our food supplements should be taken as part of a balanced diet.
