Fats are an important component of our daily diet. They supply energy, are carriers for fat-soluble vitamins, and serve as regenerative and protective agents.

Fatty acids differ by their number of C-atoms (chain length) and by the number and position of their double bonds. Fatty acids without double bonds are called saturated. Unsaturated fatty acids have one or more double bonds between the carbon atoms of the chain.

Saturated fatty acids are predominantly found in animal-based fats. They supply energy, yet have the unfortunate side-effect of increasing cholesterol levels.

In contrast, unsaturated fatty acids are effective in promoting health. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential, long chain, polyunsaturated fatty acids.  They are found almost exclusively in oily sea-fish and in a small number of plants. Both Docosahexaen Acids (DHA) and Eicosapentaen Acids (EPA), which are agents contained in Omega-3 fatty acids, cause that inter alia that keeps cell walls flexible. Studies have shown that indigenous Arctic tribes have much lower chances of suffering from cardiac arrest or cardiovascular disease. Scientists attribute this to above-average fish consumption. Other regions where fish is a main dietary component (the Mediterranean, Japan) also exhibit significantly fewer cases of cardiovascular disease. In addition, Omega-3 fatty acids stimulate blood circulation, lower blood pressure, and prevent inflammation.

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Omega-3 fatty acids are essential, yet they cannot be produced by the human body and therefore need to be provided in the form of food or dietary supplements. The best source for Omega-3 fatty acids is sea fish – especially oily fish species such as herring, salmon, mackerel and tuna. They can also be found in vegetable oils such as linseed oil, rapeseed oil and walnut oil and to a small extent in flax seed, nuts and soy products. 

Unfortunately, today’s nutrition is not always well-balanced and health-oriented. We consume too many animal-based saturated fatty acids and too few unsaturated Omega-3 fatty acids. This can increase the level of blood lipids such as cholesterol.  Apart from stress, smoking, alcohol, and a lack of physical exercise, a high level of blood lipids is a central risk factor for heart and blood circulation. Nutritional experts therefore advise at least 2 meals containing fish per week, thereby satisfying the need for Omega-3 fatty acids.

 

If a sufficient supply of Omega-3 acids cannot ensured through a routine diet, these acids can also be supplied by food supplements (such as Schaebens Salmon Oil Capsules). Particularly for those with fish allergies, vegetarians, or for people who dislike fish, special capsules such as Schaebens Vegetable Omega-3 1.000l offer plant-based Omega-3 acids.

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Sources:
www.wikipedia.de
Association for Nutrition Science
Medical Tribune
www.lifeline.de