Omega-3 EPA og DHA – hvorfor er fett viktig for kroppen?

Omega-3 EPA and DHA – why is fat important for the body?

The quality of fat is important for the body's normal functions. There are four types of fat we get through our diet: saturated fat, monounsaturated fat, polyunsaturated fat, and the harmful group of trans fats.

But which type of fat is best for health? Saturated fat is not necessarily harmful, but a diet high in saturated fat can increase levels of harmful LDL cholesterol in the blood. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats are considered the healthiest fat sources. Polyunsaturated fat (found in fish and krill oil) is especially important for the body and can help lower LDL cholesterol when it replaces saturated fat.

There are two types of polyunsaturated fatty acids: omega-3 and omega-6.

Important omega-3 fatty acids: DHA, EPA, and ALA

Fish is traditionally known as a good source of polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids. Sources of omega-3 often contain several different fatty acids, and you may have heard of the most beneficial: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).

DHA, EPA, and ALA are long-chain fatty acids with many documented health benefits.

The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids

These are essential fatty acids that the body needs for normal health. EPA and DHA have several health-approved effects (according to EFSA – European Food Safety Authority), including:

EPA and DHA contribute to normal eye and brain health.

Did you know that the brain consists of almost 60% fat, and that DHA is the most important fatty acid in the nervous system, brain, and eyes? The highest concentration of DHA in the body is found in the retina, where it plays an important role in vision.

A daily diet rich in omega-3 helps maintain good vision and normal brain function.

EPA and DHA contribute to heart and blood health*

It is scientifically proven that DHA helps maintain normal triglyceride levels in the blood, and that a daily intake of DHA and EPA together contributes to normal blood pressure. These fatty acids are also important for maintaining stable triglyceride levels in the blood, and omega-3 is especially beneficial for a healthy heart.

They are important for the normal development of the brain and vision in fetuses and infants*

Omega-3 intake is especially important for pregnant women, as the need for these fatty acids (especially EPA and DHA) increases during pregnancy to support fetal development. EPA and DHA particularly contribute to the normal development of the brain and eyes of the fetus.

A common reason for low omega-3 intake during pregnancy is concern about mercury in fish.

ALA helps maintain normal cholesterol levels

For vegans and people who do not eat fish or seafood, ALA is especially important. The body can convert small amounts of ALA into EPA and DHA. Therefore, a vegan diet should include good sources of ALA to ensure adequate intake.

Krill oil capsules to support omega-3 intake

Krill oil is an excellent source of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. What makes krill oil especially beneficial compared to many fish oil supplements is that the fatty acids are bound to phospholipids, which provides high bioavailability.

Krill oil:

  • Easily absorbed by the body
  • Does not cause fishy taste or burps
  • Contains natural astaxanthin and choline

Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that protects the oil from oxidation, making preservatives unnecessary. Choline is also an important nutrient for the body.

Good food sources of omega-3

The best sources of omega-3 are fatty fish such as:

  • Salmon
  • Mackerel
  • Sea bass

These are rich in EPA and DHA.

Vegan sources of ALA include:

  • Walnuts
  • Hemp seeds
  • Flaxseed

When should you take omega-3 supplements?

Omega-3 can be taken at any time of the day, but it is recommended to take it with food – preferably in combination with vitamin D.

If you spread your supplements throughout the day, it can be beneficial to take omega-3 at lunch and dinner.

Aarja Health's 100% natural, pure, and sustainable OMEGA3 BOOST krill oil is a high-quality source of omega-3 with good absorption and a mild vanilla flavor.

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