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The brain is an organ that undergoes a process of cellular aging, which can lead to reduced cognitive performance. From the age of 45 onwards, we often observe changes in cognition, such as poorer memory, less effective attention, language disorders and more fragile executive functions. What’s more, aging is a risk factor for the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Omega-3s, and in particular docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), play a crucial role in brain health. The brain is the second most lipid-rich tissue, and neuronal membranes contain fatty acids, including omega-3s. DHA is the most abundant omega-3 fatty acid in the brain. These fatty acids are important for ensuring the fluidity and integrity of neurons, facilitating the release of neurotransmitters and contributing to membrane renewal [1].
As far as the cardiovascular system is concerned, cardiovascular disease is the world’s leading cause of death. Age, high triglyceride and LDL-cholesterol levels are risk factors for the development of these diseases. However, a diet rich in omega-3s can play a protective role.
Omega-3s, particularly long-chain ones, have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. A recent meta-analysis published in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings [2] showed that consumption of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) reduced the risk of myocardial infarction, heart attack and cardiovascular disease-related mortality. Randomized controlled trials have also shown a significant reduction in certain risk factors, such as dyslipidemia, with EPA and DHA consumption in high-risk populations.
As we age, our eyes are also subject to aging and various pathologies. Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of visual impairment in the elderly. This is due to the degradation of the macula, a part of the retina that plays an essential role in our vision. Glaucoma, which affects 1-2% of the population over the age of 40, is the second leading cause of blindness in France. It is a chronic eye disease that leads to the progressive destruction of optic nerve fibers. In addition, many elderly people suffer from dry eyes due to reduced tear production. Fortunately, a balanced diet can help preserve eye health. Certain nutrients, such as carotenoids, lutein and omega-3s, are known for their protective effects on vision.
Omega-3s, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), play a crucial role in the functioning of the eye cells involved in vision. A sufficient intake of DHA can help maintain normal vision. Long-chain omega-3s are also beneficial in the long-term prevention of various eye problems. Studies suggest that they can help combat dry eye syndrome, age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma. The antioxidant properties of omega-3 are useful in combating the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with these conditions.
Let’s move on to skin health. Skin aging is a natural process that begins as early as adulthood. However, certain environmental factors can accelerate or delay this process. With age, skin becomes less hydrated, less supple and more fragile. Cell regeneration slows down, collagen production declines and the prevalence of skin cancers increases. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants can help prevent skin ageing.
Omega-3s are particularly beneficial for the skin, thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. They help combat oxidative stress and UV radiation, which are harmful to skin cells. In addition, they promote the expression of collagen and elastin fibers, which diminish with age. Thanks to these properties, omega-3s are considered essential nutrients for preventing the signs of skin ageing.
Omega-3s have long been known for their benefits to the body, but recent research has focused on their impact on the nervous system. In fact, omega-3s play an important role in the production of endocannabinoids, making them essential for resisting stress. Studies on mice [3] have shown that a low intake of omega-3s reduced their production of endocannabinoids and increased their stress levels.
What’s more, omega-3s also have an effect on the stress hormone cortisol. Prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol can lead to excessive inflammation. Fortunately, omega-3s possess anti-inflammatory properties that help to regulate this inflammatory response and thus reduce stress.
A study by Hellhammer et al [4] also showed that omega-3s had a beneficial effect on both chronic and acute stress. Over a 12-week period, two groups of men were given either 300 mg of omega-3 and phosphatidylserine (PS), or a placebo based on olive oil. The results showed that the group taking omega-3 and PS had better stress regulation.
Finally, omega-3s play an important role in combating depression by acting on various neurobiological functions. They modulate certain neurotransmitters and promote neuroplasticity and synaptic plasticity.
Omega-3s also have an impact on sleep. The brain is the second most lipid-rich tissue, and neuronal membranes contain specific fatty acids such as omega-3s. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is the most abundant omega-3 in the brain, and a sufficient intake of omega-3 contributes to healthy brain function.
A study [5] carried out in England on children aged 7 to 9 showed that daily consumption of 600 mg of omega-3s, mainly DHA, for 4 months increased their sleep time by an average of 58 minutes. This improvement was attributed to a higher concentration of DHA in the blood.
Omega-3s are invaluable allies in maintaining the health of our brain, eyes, cardiovascular system and skin, while helping us to manage stress and improve sleep quality. A balanced diet rich in omega-3s can help prevent certain age-related diseases. So it’s essential to include sources of omega-3s in our diet to reap their full health benefits.
Today, omega-3s have become a lever for innovation, all the more so when we focus on omega-3s of plant origin to meet consumer expectations in terms of naturalness.
That’s why Xelliss’ X DHA is the solution of choice. As an expert in microalgae biotechnology, Xelliss offers sustainable solutions. X DHA is derived from the microalgae Schizochytrium sp. and is naturally concentrated in plant-derived omega-3s. These vegan-certified omega-3s are suitable for everyone.
These omega-3s are obtained sustainably by harvesting the “super-producer” strain only once in its natural environment. They come in the form of triglycerides (TG), obtained by a solvent-free extraction process. This lipid structure is one of the natural forms of fatty acids.
X DHA omega-3s are naturally concentrated in high levels of DHA, without any chemical processes or enrichment, guaranteeing a DHA content of 550 mg per gram.
What’s more, these omega-3s have a “neutral” taste and a low organoleptic footprint, making them ideal for easy consumption.
When you choose X DHA from Xelliss, you’re opting for sustainable, naturally concentrated, great-tasting plant-derived omega-3s, so you can enjoy all the health benefits of these essential fatty acids.
Xelliss X DHA is not only good for your health, but also for the health of the planet.
[1] https://www.pensersante.fr/acides-gras-et-cerveau-penser-sante
[2] Aldo A. Bernasconi et al., 2020, Effect of omega-3 dosage on cardiovascular outcomes : an updated meta-analysis and meta-regression of interventional trials
[3] Lafourcade, M., Larrieu, T., Mato, S. et al. Nutritional omega-3 deficiency abolishes endocannabinoid-mediated neuronal functions. Nat Neurosci 14, 345–350 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1038/nn.2736
[4] Hellhammer, J., Hero, T., Franz, N., Contreras, C., & Schubert, M. (2012). Omega-3 fatty acids administered in phosphatidylserine improved certain aspects of high chronic stress in men. Nutrition research, 32(4), 241-250.
[5] Montgomery, P., Burton, J.R., Sewell, R.P., Spreckelsen, T.F. and Richardson, A.J. (2014), Fatty acids and sleep in UK children: subjective and pilot objective sleep results from the DOLAB study – a randomized controlled trial. J Sleep Res, 23: 364-388. https://doi.org/10.1111/jsr.12135