Veg Omega

Please note the following referenced scientific research is for informational use only. The results reported below may not necessarily occur in all our customers. The information should not replace advice from your health care practitioner. This information should not be read to recommend or endorse any specific product.

Our Veg Omega is a DHA/EPA-rich algal oil derived from Schizochytrium, a type of marine microalgae. Schizochytrium has a unique cell structure that is valued for its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). DHA and EPA are essential omega-3s that are typically found in fish oil but are sourced directly from algae in this case, making it suitable for those on plant-based diets or those seeking more sustainable, high-quality nutritional sources. EPA and DHA are essential omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health, reduce inflammation, improve brain function, and promote eye health.

Brain

  • The brain is predominately made up of fat (approx. 50%), mostly the omega-3 fatty acid DHA. Fats are crucial for brain development, integrity, function, and overall health. Fatty acids are major components of the brain and are found in high concentrations (Braun & Cohen 2015, 327).

  • DHA is often deemed a fundamental building block of the brain, associated with cognitive functions like memory, focus, and problem-solving.

  • A clinical trial found that daily supplementation with 900 mg of DHA from Schizochytrium for 24 weeks helped improve cognitive performance in healthy older adults, particularly in tasks related to learning and memory (Cardoso et al. 2016).

Eyes

  • DHA is a major structural component of the retina, the part of the eye that captures light and helps us see. Consuming an adequate amount of DHA, like through the use of algae oil, can help maintain eye health (Karageorgou et al. 2023).

Heart

  • A high intake of fish or marine microalgae rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, is consistently associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease such as coronary heart disease (Karageorgou et al. 2023).

References

  • Braun, L., and Cohen,Marc. 2015. Herbs & Natural Supplements An Evidence-based guide Volume 2. 4th ed. Australia: Elsevier.

  • Cardoso C, Afonso C, Bandarra NM, 2016. "Dietary DHA and health: cognitive function aging". Nutrition Research Reviews. 29(2):281-294. doi:10.1017/S0954422416000184

  • Karageorgou D, Rova U, Christakopoulos P, Katapodis P, Matsakas L, Patel A, 2023. "Benefits of supplementation with microbial omega-3 fatty acids on human health and the current market scenario for fish-free omega-3 fatty acid. Trends in Food Science & Technology, 136(169-180) ISSN 0924-2244, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2023.04.018.