The benefits of Omega-3 intake depend on basal levels in the body
Omega 3 benefits sure, but to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis
The benefits of Omega 3 intake depend on the levels of these fatty acids in the body before treatment begins. That is the conclusion reached by a group of researchers coordinated by John Newman of the University of California, Davis (United States). The news was published in the Journal of Lipid Research1. For the authors, this finding suggests that measurement of basal Omega-3 levels could be useful in establishing the effectiveness of treatment based on enriching the diet with these nutrients.
Omega-3 rich diet: why it is so important
Omega-3s are essential fatty acids. The body is unable to synthesize the amounts needed to stay healthy; therefore, diet is the only way to ensure proper intake. However, the modern Western diet is characterized by too low levels of these valuable nutrients. In contrast, thediets of industrialized countries abound in Omega-6, a type of fat with the opposite action to Omega-3. The resulting variation in the ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 in the body jeopardizes good health. Increasing consumption of oily fish can counteract the risks associated with Omega-3 deficiency. Oily fish is the main dietary source of Omega-3 EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). The minimum recommended daily intake to prevent cardiovascular disorders is 500 milligrams total EPA and DHA.
An effect to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis
Taking Omega-3 does not produce the same effects in all individuals. A previous study suggested that those with lower initial Omega-3 levels may benefit more from taking them. However, this study had involved very few patients to allow any firm conclusions to be drawn. Newman and colleagues therefore decided to clarify this point by measuring Omega-3 levels in blood, red blood cells and platelets before and after a 4-week treatment with these nutrients. Analysis of the data collected revealed that the treatment increases the Omega-3s in the body. Not only that, the higher the levels of fatty acids before treatment, the lower the observed increase in concentrations. The same data made it possible to estimate that a 70-kilogram individual should take 7 milligrams of Omega-3s daily to maintain the levels of EPA and DHA needed to protect the heart and arteries.
Omega-3 supplements: which form to choose?
The most widely available forms of Omega-3 are triglyceride and ethyl ester. This study involved the administration of Omega-3 in the form of ethyl esters. However, some recent studies have shown that the absorption of these fatty acids is greater if they are taken in the form of triglycerides. For the authors, the results of this study could also be valid for forms of Omega-3 other than ethyl esters.
Source:
1. Keenan AH, Pedersen TL, Fillaus K, Larson MK, Shearer GC, Newman JW, "Basal omega-3 fatty acid status affects fatty acid and oxylipin responses to high-dose n3-HUFA in healthy volunteers," J Lipid Res. 2012 May 24. [Epub ahead of print].
