Fish-Free Omega-3s? Yes, please!
With the state of contemporary nutrition, getting enough of the nutrients the body needs can be quite challenging to say the least. Modern factory farming techniques, reliance on agro-chemicals such as pesticides, widespread use of other chemical food additives, and the introduction of GMO crops have deeply impacted human nutrition on a global level. This is especially true for certain nutrients that are less frequently found in the diet or that are mostly available in foods that have other consumption concerns (for example those that have purity or other issues like fish or those that are problematic like gluten and dairy). Obtaining adequate dietary nourishment is key in ensuring cohesive function of the billions of neurons that call the brain home and allow for effective communication with all the cells, organs, and tissues in the rest of the body. The good news is, this is easier than it sounds because fortunately, special nutrients like algae-derived EPA and DHA both directly support our most complex organ and benefit the rest of our body!
Phytonutrient-sourced omega-3 fatty acids including a-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentanoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are known for being key nutrients for health and function of the brain, but these same fatty acids also have tremendous benefits to cells, tissues, and organs throughout the rest of the body as well. ALA is plentiful in many different plant foods; however, EPA and DHA are not as abundant. We often find EPA and DHA in less-than-optimal dietary or supplement sources like fish and the oils derived from smashing, but these nutrients can also be sustainably sourced as a superior phytonutrient from marine algae (minimizing concerns for chemical exposure, environmental impact, and more). From helping to ensure the integrity of every cell in our body to keeping our blood vessels healthy and functioning well to their role in helping with immune function, omega 3 fatty acids are one important component of overall health:
Integral Component of Cell Membranes
Omega 3 fatty acids are of particular importance to every cell in our body because while other types of fats can accumulate inside fat cells making them larger, or in other types of cells where their functionality is eventually impacted, some fatty acids such as DHA are found almost exclusively as an integral, structural component of the cell membrane.1 The ratio of specific fatty acids such as DHA in a cell membrane is important because it ensures proper fluidity of the membrane.,1 This means that having optimally sourced phytonutrient-derived fatty acids like DHA coming into the body is essential to maintain the structure, function, and integrity of every cell in the body. mega-3 fats in the cell membrane of some cell types, like red blood cells, has also been associated with decreased risk of disease.
Superior Cardiovascular Benefit
The cardiovascular benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, including those from plant-derived sources, are becoming more and more apparent.2 All the major omega 3 fatty acids, ALA, EPA, and DHA, have all been shown to serve cardiovascular health on several levels. In fact, an extensive meta-analysis revealed that modest intakes of 1-2.5 grams per day of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids helped reduce cardiovascular risk.3 There are a few ways omega-3 fatty acids, including those derived from plant sources, have been shown to contribute to heart health, including:
- Managing the risk of blood clots (which can contribute to heart attacks, strokes, and other concerns)4,
- Keeping the levels of fats in the blood in check5,
- Promoting healthy functioning of the endothelium (the lining on the insides of the blood vessels)6,
- Restricting instability of plaque-deposits in blood vessel walls.7
Immune Support
Plant-derived omega-3 fatty acids are important moderators of immune response in our body. Specifically, EPA and DHA have been shown to impact the immune response in different but complementary ways. DHA has been shown to have the ability to impact a broader range of immune molecules, but EPA is better at promoting balance between helpful and harmful immune compounds in the body. 8 The best part is that this complementary balance of benefit and activity means that your body is better equipped to defend itself against pathogens and disease.9
When it comes to a sustainable and superior source of omega-3 fatty acids, in reality, algae is where it all starts. Algae-derived nutrients like those found in Vimergy Vegan EPA/DHA, leave the fish out of it but provide an advanced way to ensure our need for certain dietary nutrients can be fulfilled with high quality phytonutrient forms that are extensively monitored and tested for purity and potency standards. Oh- and Vimergy Vegan EPA/DHA minimizes environmental impact too.
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