Science

Why Omega-3?

New to Omega-3, or just looking to learn more? Keep scrolling!

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With over 50,000 published studies on EPA and DHA Omega-3, these essential nutrients stand among the most extensively researched ingredients in nutritional science.

Q&A

What are Omega-3 fatty acids?
Omega-3s are a class of essential polyunsaturated fats your body either cannot make on its own, or is very inefficient at making. The key marine omega-3s are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), found mainly in oily fish and marine oils. ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) is mainly plant-based, and can to some degree be converted to EPA/DHA in the human body.
Why do EPA and DHA matter?
Both the NIH (US) and EFSA (EU) recognize that EPA and DHA play a key role in health, and mention areas such as heart, brain and eye health.
What should I consider when evaluating Omega-3 products?
Key factors include: 
- EPA/DHA content and ratio
- Purity and oxidation control
- Sustainable sourcing and certifications
- Transparent labeling to ensure consistency and efficacy
What evidence supports Omega-3s for heart health?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, strong observational evidence shows that populations consuming fatty fish have lower rates of heart disease. Omega-3s help lower triglycerides, support healthy blood pressure, and can reduce systemic inflammation, which are all favorable heart-health markers.
What roles do Omega-3 play beyond heart health?
Omega-3s, especially EPA and DHA from marine sources, support many essential functions throughout the body. DHA is a key structural component of the brain and eyes, helping maintain normal brain function and vision. EPA and DHA also support healthy inflammatory balance and are important for cell membrane health, which affects how cells communicate and function.
Together, these roles explain why omega-3s are widely studied for benefits related to brain health, eye health, immune function, and overall cellular health, not just the heart.
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Are there dosage guidelines for Omega-3s?
There’s no universally established official dose, but many health authorities recommend around 250-500 mg/day of combined EPA + DHA for general health, which is often achievable through diet. Supplements may provide higher amounts when clinically indicated, but optimal dosing depends on age, health goals, and individual factors. EFSA, for instance, recommends 3 g EPA+DHA/day for maintenance of normal blood pressure.
Can Omega-3 supplements replace a balanced diet?
No. Whole foods like fish provide a matrix of nutrients, and many studies show better health outcomes from dietary omega-3 intake than supplements alone. Supplements are best viewed as a complement to a nutrient-rich diet, not a substitute for it.
Why do some studies show limited benefits of Omega-3 supplements?
Outcomes depend on study design, dosage, formulation, baseline omega-3 status, and whether subjects already have adequate intake. Some large randomized trials show limited cardiovascular benefit from standard OTC supplements, highlighting that formulation quality, dose, and patient selection matter.

Fats: the good, the bad and the ugly

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Resources

Want to learn more, but don't know where to begin?

There are many great sources for further Omega-3 EPA and DHA education. One of them being the trade organization GOED, the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s, of which Epax is a founding member.