Nutrition, Health

Nature’s Omega-3 – Straight From the Source

In our journey to meet daily nutritional needs, we often think about protein, vitamin C, and iron. But let’s take a moment to shine a spotlight on something equally vital yet often overlooked: essential omega-3 fatty acids.

Why Are Omega-3s Essential?

Omega-3s are essential fatty acids (EFAs) that our bodies cannot produce on their own. We must obtain them from our diet. The main EFAs are linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). Many people consume more omega-6 than omega-3, leading to an imbalance. That’s why it’s so important to find ways to increase omega-3 intake through diet and supplements.

There are three primary omega-3 fatty acids:

• ALA (alpha-linolenic acid): Found in plant foods such as flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, and nuts.
• EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid): Marine-sourced omega-3s found in fish, seafood, and algae.
• DHA (docosahexaenoic acid): Marine-sourced omega-3s found in fish, seafood, and algae.

Omega-3 from Plant Foods

While our bodies can convert the ALA from plants into EPA, this process isn’t very efficient. Factors like diet, genetics, and overall health can affect how well this conversion works. That’s why it’s often more effective to boost your EPA levels by consuming foods or supplements that already contain EPA or DHA.

Health Benefits of DHA & EPA

• Cognitive Function: DHA supports cognitive function and brain health.
• Nervous System: EPA and DHA support nervous system health.
• Heart Health: EPA and DHA promote cardiovascular health.
• Pregnancy Health: DHA supports healthy foetal development and pregnancy health.

Where Does Plant-Based Omega-3 Come From?

Contrary to popular belief, fish do not naturally produce omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA. These fatty acids are synthesised by microalgae, which fish consume either directly or through the food chain. This means fish are secondary sources of omega-3s. Opting for omega-3s directly from marine algae or plant-based sources is a more sustainable and direct method.

Algae are abundant and versatile, existing in both fresh and marine waters. Marine macroalgae, commonly known as seaweed, can range in size from a few millimetres to over 50 metres. They come in green, brown, or red varieties, with an estimated 30,000 species in marine environments. Unlike plants, macroalgae do not have roots, stems, or leaves. They absorb nutrients and gases directly from the water, drawing a wealth of mineral elements from the sea.

The algae used in Wanderlust Plant Omega harnesses a unique ingredient called Schizochytrium, which is 100% plant-based, fermented, and sustainable. This is the first and only plant-based omega-3 that delivers the health benefits of both EPA and DHA from a single source. The production of Schizochytrium also has zero impact on the marine ecosystem and is free from environmental and marine contaminants.

Environmental Impact

Choosing a plant-based omega-3 supplement is a vegan and vegetarian-friendly option that benefits our health and protects our oceans from overfishing. It also reduces exposure to environmental contaminants. Marine algae are cultivated separately from our marine ecosystems, and the plant omega-3 industry is set to grow as more people become aware of the importance of preserving marine biodiversity.

Ready to make the switch to sustainable omega-3 sources? Explore marine algae-derived omega-3 supplements with Wanderlust.