It’s fair to say that most people have heard and know a bit about Omega-3, or perhaps you’re like many of our customers who have found themselves stuck in heated discussions about whether we really need this supplement, and being a bit unsure you find yourself nodding along?
Omega-3 definitely has a lot to give, and it’s reputation of being an essential component of our diet doesn’t go unnoticed. Here’s the lowdown on what Omega-3 really is and some interesting facts that you can drop into your next conversation.
Omega-3 - the basics:
Omega fatty acids are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that are important for a number of functions in the body.
There are 3-main fatty acids within Omega-3:
ALA is an essential fatty acid, meaning your body can’t make it. Your body can convert some ALA into EPA and then to DHA, but only in very small amounts. Therefore, you need to get most of your EPA and DHA from food.Omega-3 fats are found in many cells in your body, especially in cells in your brain and eyes. They play an important role in helping your blood vessels, heart, immune system and lungs work properly. This is why including foods that are high in omega-3 fats EPA and DHA, such as oily fish, is encouraged as part of a healthy balanced diet.
Omega-3 has a wide scope of beneficial support for a range of vital systems such as:
- Cardiovascular health
- Brain and nerve function
- Healthy vision
- Immune system health
- Healthy joints and movement
It is a much loved supplement by many, especially those who feel that they don’t eat enough fish to reach the suggested amount of EPA and DHA.
How much fish would I need to consume to match what these supplements provide?
Wondering why these supplements are so popular? Surely you can just consume more oily fish? For some, this may be the case. However, many people find that they consume far less omega-3 than recommended by health professionals. Some people just aren’t fish fanatics!
In New Zealand, it is recommended that women consume 430mg of omega-3 daily and men 610mg. This means that you will need to eat a serving of fish at least 2 times per week. Just 12% of Kiwis’ are purchasing seafood twice a week, and 30% only once to twice a month; making it clear why so many New Zealanders choose to add Omega-3 supplements into their diet.
Obviously, the amount of Omega-3 found in fish varies depending on what species it is. For example, if you prefer the taste of white seafood- such as oysters, eel and prawns - you’re unfortunately consuming lower amounts of Omega-3 in comparison to oily seafood such as fresh tuna, salmon, sardines, pilchards and mackerel. Healthfarm Advanced Omega 3 has a high concentration of EPA 360mg and DHA 240mg. Adding this supplement to your diet means that you can be assured that you can quickly provide your body with essential support for your vital systems and easily meet the recommended amount of Omega-3.