Omega-3: Essential lipids for heart, brain, and vision

Omega-3: Essential lipids for heart, brain, and vision

Omega-3 in one glance

Omega-3 fatty acids are structural lipids that shape cell membranes throughout the body, influencing heart rhythm, brain signalling, and visual clarity. The most important are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), both considered essential because the body cannot produce them in meaningful amounts. According to EU nutrition law, specific daily intakes allow authorised wording for heart, brain, and vision health—making omega-3s some of the most established nutrients in modern science.

The essentials

What they are: EPA and DHA are long-chain omega-3 fatty acids; DPA is a related intermediary also present in marine oils.
Where they live: Omega-3s are integrated into phospholipid membranes in many tissues; DHA is especially concentrated in the retina and brain.
Why they matter: EU-authorised wording applies under qualifying conditions: 250 mg/day EPA+DHA contributes to normal heart function; 250 mg/day DHA contributes to normal brain function and normal vision.*

Results from within

Not all omega-3s are created equal. For these fatty acids to be effective, they must be absorbed efficiently in the gastrointestinal tract and incorporated into cell membranes. The form makes a real difference: triglycerides (TG) are the natural structure, while ethyl esters (EE) and some concentrates show lower absorption. Algal oils are naturally triglycerides and, when carefully processed, retain this form—ensuring better bioavailability and stability. Clinical research confirms that meeting daily intakes of EPA and DHA supports cardiovascular health, cognitive performance, and vision across life stages.

Marine vs. algal sources

Fish do not make omega-3s themselves—they obtain them by consuming microalgae, either directly or through the food chain. Algal omega-3 goes straight to the original source. For modern formulations, this brings three clear advantages: it is fish-free and vegan, making it suitable for those avoiding marine allergens; it is fermentation-grown, ensuring clean, traceable production; and it offers a consistent, neutral sensory profile with defined EPA/DHA ratios, ideal for capsules and liquids without a fishy aftertaste.

Three things to look for in an omega-3 formula

1. Defined and clinically relevant dose – clearly stated EPA/DHA content per daily serving, aligned with EU authorised claim thresholds and validated in human studies.
2. Proven absorption and form – omega-3s should be provided in a bioavailable form (ideally triglycerides) with transparent EPA/DHA ratios. Without this, systemic effects cannot be guaranteed.
3. Quality, provenance, and safety – verified algal or marine sourcing, strict oxidation controls, and documented stability to ensure both purity and efficacy.

Omegatex® — our selected omega-3

What it is

Omegatex® Plant-Based is a premium, vegan omega-3 ingredient derived from Schizochytrium microalgae and concentrated in its native triglyceride form. This careful development ensures the fatty acids are both bioavailable and stable, making them reliable for supplementation.

What the research shows

  • Heart function: intake of 250 mg/day EPA+DHA contributes to the normal function of the heart.*
  • Brain and vision: intake of 250 mg/day DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function and vision.*
  • Absorption and efficacy: by delivering omega-3 in the natural TG form, Omegatex® supports the same bioavailability observed in clinical studies using triglyceride-based oils.

Why we selected it

Omegatex® combines clean, traceable microalgae sourcing with native TG form and precisely defined EPA/DHA ratios. Its vegan profile, stability, and neutral taste make it a modern, science-led solution that delivers consistent results—without the variability or aftertaste of generic fish oils.

References

[1] EU Register of Nutrition and Health Claims: EPA+DHA (heart), DHA (brain/vision) qualifying amounts.
[2] Technical overviews on algal omega-3: Schizochytrium origin, TG format, defined potencies, and manufacturing standards.
[3] Dyerberg J, et al. (2010). Bioavailability of marine n-3 fatty acid formulations. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids, 83(3):137–141.
[4] Offman E, et al. (2013). Differential uptake of omega-3 formulations. Lipids Health Dis, 12:10.

📌 Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It summarises authorised claim conditions and ingredient characteristics and does not make medical or therapeutic claims. It is not medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. For personalised guidance on supplement use or health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

* Authorised EU wording may be used only when the finished product provides the qualifying daily amounts (e.g., 250 mg EPA+DHA for heart; 250 mg DHA for brain/vision) and all labelling conditions are met.