There’s good reason why omega-3 fatty acids are termed essential. Essential nutrients are compounds, such as certain vitamins and minerals, fatty acids and amino acids, that the body cannot make or synthesize in sufficient amounts. These essential nutrients must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Due to their mechanism of action at a cellular level, omega-3’s are metabolically necessary for overall healthy function, as well as disease prevention.
Essential fatty acids have multiple biological, structural and functional roles. As cellular membrane constituents, they assure structural integrity, stability, fluidity, permeability and flexibility of the membrane. The complex biological activities of fatty acids influence cellular energy production, tissue functions, metabolism and signaling response. Essential fatty acids regulate blood pressure, play a beneficial role in inflammatory processes, reduce oxidative stress and have positive effects on the cardiovascular and central nervous systems.
Increasing the intake of omega-3 essential fatty acids, either alone or in combination with other fats and compounds, can support health, aid in the prevention of certain diseases, improve body composition and promote mental and physical performance. Although interest in the health benefits of fatty acids is typically related to cardiovascular disease, it is now clear that fatty acids influence a range of metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, inflammatory conditions and certain cancers.
Science-based benefits of omega-3 fatty acid intake for vision, cardiovascular and brain health:
Eye and vision health: DHA is the primary structural fatty acid of the retina. Dietary or supplemental DHA may help to preserve vision, as well as relieve symptoms of dry eye and inflammation. While it does not reverse retinal damage, DHA may slow the deterioration of the retina in age-related macular degeneration.
Cardiovascular health: The American Heart Association recommends two serving of omega-3 rich fish per week or consumption of high quality omega-3 supplements. Studies show that by lowering triglyceride and resting blood pressure levels, increasing good HDL cholesterol and reducing inflammatory markers, omega-3’s have favorable effects on overall cardiovascular health. As well, they may support normal heart rhythm and help to prevent coronary artery blockage.
Brain health: While the science is not clear that omega-3’s can prevent cognitive decline, evidence shows that consumption of omega-3’s may have positive effects on brain health. Found in high concentrations in brain tissue, DHA is an essential building block of brain cell membranes. EPA and DHA fatty acids and their metabolites influence many brain processes, including cerebral blood flow, neurotransmitter levels, oxidative stress, and new neuron production.
Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high quality omega-3 supplements:
ProOmega® 2000 Lemon by Nordic Naturals®: This top selling, high-intensity, triglyceride form omega-3 supplement provides deep sea fish oil in support of brain, eye and heart health. Third party testing for environmental toxins and heavy metals assures freshness and purity under strict international standards. Natural lemon flavor. Gluten, dairy and artificial color and flavor free, Non-GMO formulation.
Very Finest Fish Oil Lemon by Carlson® Labs: This easy to take, lemon flavored, concentrated liquid fish oil provides high quality omega-3 fatty acids sustainably sourced from cold water fish. One teaspoon provides 1600 mg of EPA and DHA in support of heart, brain, vision and joint health. Independently tested to be free of heavy metals, PCBs and 28 additional contaminants. Gluten free. Naturally flavored and preserved.
Easy Swallow Minis by Wiley’s Finest® Wild Alaskan Fish Oil: These easy swallow minis provide a concentrated balance of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids sustainably sourced from Alaskan pollock. Independently tested for contaminants and banned substances. Naturally preserved with Non-GMO mixed tocopherols. NSF Certified for Sport®. Gluten, soy, dairy, sugar and artificial ingredient free.
Aqua Biome™ Fish Oil Classic Strength by Enzymedica: This unique formula provides optimal ratios of omega-3’s from wild caught, sustainably sourced fish in support of a healthy microbiome, balanced mood and brain and cardiovascular health. Eco-friendly, 3rd party certified for label accuracy and purity. Natural lemon oil flavor. Gluten, soy and dairy free, Non-GMO formulation.
Nordic™ Omega-3 Fishies by Nordic Naturals®: These yummy tutti frutti flavored gummies provide daily essential omega-3 nutrients for children aged 2 and older. Each serving provides 300 mg of highly absorbable omega-3’s for targeted support of normal immune, brain, eye, mood and overall healthy function. No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Third party purity tested. Non-GMO Verified.
References:
The essentials of essential fatty acids. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22435414
Functional Roles of Fatty Acids and Their Effects on Human Health. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26177664
Importance of Fatty Acids in Physiopathology of Human Body. https://www.intechopen.com/books/fatty-acids/importance-of-fatty-acids-in-physiopathology-of-human-body
Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Benefits and Endpoints in Sport. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6357022/
Omega-3 for your eyes. https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/omega-3-for-your-eyes
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Heart Health. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.114.015176
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