Our brain uses about 25 percent of our total energy, even though the brain makes up only about 2 percent of our body weight. Omega 3 fatty acids are an important part of our brain cells and have an extremely positive effect on our cognitive abilities. An insufficient or incorrect intake of omega fatty acids is behind many complaints.
The fuel for our brain
Fatty acids are particularly important for our brain. It consists of approximately 40% omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 is known to prevent Alzheimer's and is extremely beneficial for depression , anxiety and ADHD . One of the reasons for this is that omega 3 fatty acids can cross the blood-brain barrier and act there as antioxidants.
Antioxidants can be thought of as little bodyguards protecting our cells. DHA (an omega 3 fatty acid) in particular has an extremely positive effect on our brain. Omega 3 is fuel for our brain. It has been shown to reduce beta amyloids, which are said to be one of the main triggers of Alzheimer's. DHA also has a beneficial effect on our cognitive performance and concentration. In a study with rats it was found that their memory improved through the supply of DHA. Studies have also shown that DHA causes an increase in BDNF. BDNF (Brain derived neutrophic factor) is a growth factor and essential for a healthy and optimally functioning brain. It protects cells from dying and promotes the growth of new neuronal connections. It is also a key factor for memory and understanding of complex relationships.
Omega 3 is of great importance for many bodily functions and for maintaining health:
- Omega 3 fatty acids promote blood circulationmega 3 fatty acids have a positive effect on several cardiovascular risk factors: They increase the "good" HDL cholesterol and at the same time lower the "bad" LDL cholesterol as well as the triglyceride values and blood pressure.
- Omega 3 fatty acids have a preventive effect against changes in the coronary vessels and coronary heart disease.
- Omega 3 fatty acids are an important part of the nervous system and as such contribute a lot to normal brain development.
- Omega 3 fatty acids contribute a lot to eye health and the maintenance of normal vision .
What are omega 3 fatty acids actually?
Omega fatty acids belong to the group of unsaturated fatty acids . Unlike saturated fatty acids, they have double bonds. Depending on where these double bonds are located, the unsaturated fatty acids are divided into groups. Omega 3 fatty acids have the first double bond on the third carbon atom and omega 6 fatty acids on the sixth. carbon atom. In this way, the body can distinguish which fatty acid it is, since these control different tasks and processes in the body.
The most important omega-3 fatty acids for humans are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). EPA and DHA in particular are particularly rich in valuable omega-3 acids, but the human body cannot synthesize them itself. ALA, on the other hand, is a purely plant-based omega-3 fatty acid that the body can convert in small amounts into EPA and DHA - the yield is so low, however, that the need for omega-3 fatty acids is not exclusively due to the intake of ALA can be covered. The main sources of omega-3 fatty acids are cooking oils such as canola, flaxseed and walnut oil (ALA) and fatty fish or cold-water fish such as mackerel, albacore tuna, herring, anchovies, sardines and salmon (EPA and DHA). The daily requirement of EPA and/or DHA is 250mg (source: German Society for Nutrition).
Not to mention that mackerel , white tuna , herring , anchovies , sardines and salmon do not end up on most people's plates with the same frequency as chicken, beef & co. It is not surprising that the generally applicable recommendations regarding of the daily/weekly intake of omega-3 fatty acids are not met by most people.
A lack of omega-3 fatty acids can lead to chronic inflammation and problems concentrating and sleeping. Poor wound healing, dry skin and brittle hair are possible signs of an omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.
And these are just some of the symptoms associated with a lack of omega-3. Because the essential fatty acids are needed almost everywhere in the body. This is also the case, for example, in the eyes – the retina of the eyes is dependent on a sufficient supply of omega-3 fatty acids. EPA and DHA deficiencies can cause eyes to dry out and reduce vision.
High-quality vegan omega 3 fatty acids from algae oil - the natural alternative to fish oil
Dietary supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids enable the uncomplicated absorption of DHA, EPA and ALA, so that the daily requirement can be optimally covered.
Omega 3 is originally produced by (micro)algae in the sea, which fish feed on. They are the original source of omega 3. Vegetable products use omega 3 directly from the source and thus sustainably protect fish stocks . Algae are grown in ecologically controlled aquaculture. It is important to ensure that the fatty acids are free from harmful heavy metals such as mercury or lead and other contaminants and pesticides.
Another benefit offered by some new high-quality products is vegan capsule shells. While most capsule shells are made from animal gelatin, there are now some new dietary supplements that use plant cellulose as the capsule shell. This means that the products are also suitable for vegetarians and vegans.