The Omega-3 fatty acids , formerly known as vitamin F, are among the so-called unsaturated compounds and form a subgroup within the omega-n fatty acids. They are vital substances that cannot be produced by the body and therefore must be ingested with food. Omega-3 fatty acids serve as essential building blocks from Cell membranes and tissue hormones .

Omega-3 fatty acids also influence the synthesis of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins and thus provide excellent protection for the heart. Numerous studies support the assumption that Omega 3 is the most effective fatty acid group for the prevention of coronary heart disease (CHD) and that sufficient intake also reduces overall mortality. Not least for this reason, the German Nutrition Society (DGE) recommends at least 1-2 fish meals per week. The consumption of deep-sea fish is particularly recommended. The long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA) eicosapentaenoic acid and (DHA) docosahexaenoic acid contained in them are particularly important for your health. Those who rarely or never eat fish will find an excellent alternative in taking high-quality Fish oil capsules like fish oil Omega 3.

• EPA and DHA contribute to normal heart function*
• DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function**
• DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal vision**
  *The positive effect occurs with a daily intake of 250 mg EPA and DHA* or 250 mg DHA**.

Fish oil Omega 3 is a very high-quality preparation from fish oil and one of Medicom's bestsellers. The pure fish oil, which comes from marine fish from the Arctic and Antarctic, is characterized by a high content of EPA and DHA and is of course free of mercury, which is found in some deep-sea fish. The well-tolerated soft gel capsules are tasteless and odorless and contain per recommended daily dose (two capsules) 2000 mg of oil from deep-sea fish . Of this, 660 mg are unsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, which in turn consist largely of high-quality EPA (360 mg) and DHA (240 mg). The daily dose also contains 20 mg of vitamin E, which additionally supports the body in defending itself against free radicals and protects the unsaturated fatty acids from oxidation.

Good to know : Expectant and breastfeeding mothers should ensure they have a good supply of omega-3 fatty acids – especially DHA – as these play an essential role in the development of the brain and vision of babies.

There are three omega-3 fatty acids: α-linolenic acid (ALA), Eicosapentaic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). α-linolenic acid is found in vegetable oils such as rapeseed oil. The best source of the fatty acid is with a content of 60 percent Linseed oil . The long-chain fatty acids EPA and DHA , which is mainly obtained from fatty sea fish such as salmon, tuna or Atlantic herring. EPA and DHA support the Cardiovascular system and lead to a healthy Blood pressure . Numerous studies have shown the positive health effects of these fatty acids. They contribute to normal heart function and are considered the most effective fatty acid group for maintaining normal brain function. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are one of the few scientifically recognized ways in which you can support your heart and vascular health.

A particularly high concentration of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA can be found in fatty deep-sea fish such as salmon, tuna, sprats or herring from the Atlantic or Baltic Sea. α-linolenic acid is found in significant quantities, especially in linseed oil. But chia, sacha inchi, walnut or rapeseed oil can also serve as suppliers of polyunsaturated fatty acids. If you eat a vegetarian or vegan diet, you can find tips in the Medicom blog. We also offer products such as sacha inchi (see TERRA line), which help you to get enough omega-3 fatty acids despite not eating fish and fish oil.

In percentage terms, the need for omega-3 fatty acids remains the same throughout life and is not dependent on stress or gender. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women should ensure that they consume a particularly high amount to ensure the best possible development of their babies. According to the German Nutrition Society (DGE), the daily requirement for essential fatty acids is 0.5 percent of the total daily energy requirement. This means that 0.5 percent of the calories required daily should consist of omega-3 fatty acids.

So if you have a daily requirement of 2000 kcal, you should cover 10 kcal by consuming essential fatty acids. One gram of fat corresponds to 9.3 kcal. In order to cover the daily requirement of omega-3 fatty acids for a person with a daily turnover of 2000 kcal, they would have to consume 1.075 grams of fat. This corresponds roughly to the amount contained in 100 grams of sardines.

In addition to the amount consumed, the correct ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids also plays an important role for your health. It should be 1:3 to 1:5. One gram of omega-3 should therefore be balanced by three to five grams of omega-6.

An adequate supply of omega-3 fatty acids is anything but a given in our latitudes. People who eat little or no fish are rarely adequately supplied with the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. In general, a low-fish or generally unbalanced diet, diets, lack of appetite or digestive disorders usually lead to an undersupply of omega-3 fatty acids. Anyone who does not eat fatty sea fish once or twice a week should keep their fatty acid levels at a healthy level with the help of fish oil or appropriate supplements. Athletes who are trying to build muscle should ensure that they have an adequate supply of essential fatty acids in addition to a high protein intake.

Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in a number of metabolic processes in the human body. Among other things, the body needs omega-3 fatty acids for the cell walls, whose flexibility and mobility they directly influence. For example, red blood cells, whose cell walls contain a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, are particularly supple and malleable. This means that the red blood cells can easily pass through even the smallest blood vessels. Omega-3 fatty acids help to regulate blood pressure, lower blood lipid levels and reduce inflammation. They can also play a role in preventing cardiovascular diseases and supply the joint cartilage and synovial fluid with nutrients.