Indispensable for health: Why omega-3 fatty acids are missing!

Fat is often perceived negatively, but it plays an important role in health. Particularly long-chain fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are essential for physical well-being. Both belong to the omega-3 fatty acids that the body cannot produce itself. Healthy fats, especially unsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6, support the cardiovascular system, brain function and have an anti-inflammatory effect.

An optimal intake of omega-3 fatty acids has numerous positive effects, including lowering triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. High doses of EPA and DHA can reduce triglycerides by up to 40%. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids stabilize the heart rhythm and are important for the health of the nervous system, vision, as well as for healthy pregnancy and cognitive development, such as [Augsburger General](https://www.augsburger- Allgemeine.de/panorama/warum-omega-3-fettsaeuren-fuer-unsere-gesundheit-unverzichtbar-sind-9-3-25-104423348) reported.

Health Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

In extracts, omega-3 fatty acids are also crucial for the prevention of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, autoimmune diseases, allergies, type 2 diabetes, obesity and depression. Adequate intake of DHA plays an essential role during pregnancy and supports the growth and brain development of infants. However, many Europeans, including Germans, often do not have the recommended amounts of EPA and DHA, leading to inadequate intake, as Orthoknowledge found.

Average EPA and DHA intake differs from recommendations. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommends 250 mg daily intake, but this is often not enough to prevent disease. The Omega-3 Index, a biomarker of omega-3 fatty acid status, should ideally be between 8 and 11%. Europeans, on the other hand, have an average index of only 4.0 to 4.5% and could benefit from EPA/DHA supplementation to promote health.