Choosing the Right Omega-3s

Omega-3s are part of the Essential Fatty Acids, meaning our bodies cannot produce them on their own, so we must provide them. It is often difficult to get enough of them through diet, which is why supplementation becomes necessary.

The main sources of omega-3s are found in fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines, anchovies, etc.) as well as in certain seeds from which oils are obtained (flax, chia, walnuts, rapeseed, etc.).

But there is a big difference between plant-based omega-3s and animal-derived omega-3s.

Plant-based Omega-3s

In a seed or vegetable oil, we find an omega-3, alpha-linolenic acid, which our body must convert into EPA and DHA using specific enzymes. This conversion can be limited for many reasons:

• Genetic or age-related enzyme deficiency,
• Enzyme inhibition caused by hyperglycemia, hypothyroidism, alcohol, pollutants, etc.
• Cofactor deficiency (zinc, magnesium, vit B6, vit C)
• Competition with omega-6s

In other words, just because I consume good oils and omega-3-rich seeds doesn't mean my body can use them...

Animal-derived omega-3s

In animal-derived omega-3s, the active forms of omega-3s, EPA and DHA, are already present and therefore immediately available to perform their various functions. And there are many!

• Protection of the cardiovascular system
• Inflammation regulation
• Improved immune defenses
• Reduction of allergic and autoimmune reactions
• Support for brain functions (memory, concentration, mood)
• Prevention and management of ocular aging
• Skin nutrition and elasticity
• Fetal development (brain, eyes, etc.)

How to choose marine-derived omega-3s?

• Fish must come from sustainable fishing to allow for their renewal,
• Oil extraction must be done without chemical solvents and cold to avoid denaturing the fatty acids,
• The oil is then purified to eliminate heavy metals and other pollutants.
  All of this meets the standards of the EPAX label, a guarantee of quality.