Marine omega 3 (EPA and DHA) are among the best-documented cardiovascular nutrients in the world. According to Miller et al. 2014 in American Journal of Hypertension (meta-analysis of 70 randomized clinical trials), they significantly reduce blood pressure, with an effect 4 times more pronounced in untreated hypertensive patients : −4.51 mmHg systolic and −3.05 mmHg diastolic. But between oxidized low-end supplements and pharmaceutical-grade oils, the efficacy gap is enormous. This guide breaks down the 7 scientific truths.
In brief: Marine omega 3 EPA+DHA are essential polyunsaturated fatty acids that act on blood pressure through 4 mechanisms: reduction of endothelial inflammation, improved endothelial function, reduction of arterial stiffness and decreased heart rate. According to Miller et al. 2014 in Am J Hypertens, at doses > 2 g/day in untreated hypertensive patients: −4.51 mmHg systolic. According to Kuszewski et al. 2020 in Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis, 2400 mg/day for 16 weeks reduces cerebral arterial stiffness.
Concrete action: 1 to 2 g/day of EPA+DHA in natural triglyceride form (TG) for a minimum of 3 months. Choose an Omegavie® oil (Polaris origin, France) that guarantees purity, bioavailability and freshness. For a comprehensive cardiovascular approach, combine Omega 3 Nutrition•pro with Tensioptine (black garlic, olive leaf, hawthorn, rhodiola, royal jelly): this is the most complete cardio protocol in our range.
- EPA and DHA: the essential fatty acids of the heart
- Miller 2014 meta-analysis: 70 RCTs, 4 times more effective in hypertensive patients
- The 4 cardiovascular mechanisms of omega 3
- Triglycerides vs ethyl esters: the x1.7 difference
- TOTOX index and purity label: the quality criterion
- Specific profiles (high blood pressure, cholesterol, seniors, athletes)
- Myths and misconceptions about omega 3
- Optimal dosage and treatment duration
- Omega 3 + Tensioptine synergy: the complete cardio protocol
1. EPA and DHA: the essential fatty acids of the heart
Two complementary molecules, same cardiovascular effects
BLOOD PRESSURE EFFECT
Marine omega 3 are a family of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids. The two most important molecules for cardiovascular health areeicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5 n-3) anddocosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6 n-3). The human body cannot synthesize them effectively: they must be provided through diet (fatty fish) or supplementation.
Why EPA and DHA are essential
Marine omega-3 fatty acidsincorporate into cell membranes, particularly those of endothelial cells (inner lining of blood vessels), blood platelets, and cardiac muscle cells. This incorporation modifies membrane fluidity, cell signaling, and the production of lipid mediators. According to Lorente-Cebrián et al. 2013 in Journal of Physiology and Biochemistry, it is this membrane modulation that explains the broad effect of omega-3s on blood pressure, inflammation, triglycerides, and endothelial function.
Food sources of marine omega-3s
| Source | EPA+DHA (mg/100g) | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Mackerel | 2500-3000 mg | Excellent source |
| Wild salmon | 1500-2500 mg | Excellent source |
| Sardine | 1500-2000 mg | Excellent source |
| Herring | 1500-2000 mg | Excellent source |
| Tuna (fresh) | 500-1000 mg | Fair source (mercury) |
| Cod | 200-300 mg | Poor source |
| Shrimp | 200-300 mg | Poor source |
Official recommendations (ANSES, EFSA) are 250 to 500 mg/day of EPA+DHA for prevention, and 1 to 2 g/day for therapeutic purposes. In practice, achieving these intakes through diet alone requires 2 to 3 servings of fatty fish per week, which fewer than 30% of French people do regularly. Hence the interest in supplementation, particularly for those at cardiovascular risk.
2. Miller 2014 Meta-analysis: 70 RCTs, 4 times more effective in hypertensive patients
The effect is modest in the general population, major in hypertensive patients
UNTREATED HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS
The reference meta-analysis on omega 3 and blood pressure is that of Miller, Van Elswyk and Alexander 2014, published in American Journal of Hypertension. It aggregates 70 randomized controlled clinical trials placebo-controlled, involving thousands of participants overall, with fine stratification by blood pressure profile.
The spectacular "responder" effect in hypertensive patients
The most striking finding of this meta-analysis is thedifferential effect depending on baseline profile. Normotensive individuals see a modest decrease (-1.52/-0.62 mmHg), untreated hypertensive patients see a decrease 3 to 4 times greater (-4.51/-3.05 mmHg). This "response according to need" effect is typical of nutritional actives: the more unbalanced the system, the more pronounced the correction. For borderline or mild hypertension profiles, omega 3s are therefore particularly valuable.
Why 4.51 mmHg is significant
According to ESC European guidelines, a systolic reduction of 5 mmHg is associated with a 10% reduction in overall cardiovascular mortality and 13% reduction in stroke risk. A decrease of 4.51 mmHg, achieved through simple, safe and inexpensive nutritional supplementation, therefore represents a major clinical benefit, particularly for hypertensive patients at the high end of the borderline range who can thus avoid or delay medicalization.
3. The 4 cardiovascular mechanisms of omega-3s
Inflammation, endothelium, arterial stiffness, heart rate
Omega-3s do not act through a single specific mechanism, but through four complementary pathways that reinforce each other. This explains their global cardiovascular effect, beyond simple blood pressure.
Mechanism 1: Reduction of endothelial inflammation
EPAis a precursor of lipid mediators anti-inflammatory : E-series resolvins, protectins, maresins. These molecules promote the active resolution of chronic low-grade inflammation that damages blood vessel walls. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) , a marker of cardiovascular inflammation, typically decreases by 10 to 20% after 3 months of supplementation at 2 g/day of EPA+DHA. Less inflamed endothelium functions better and resists blood pressure spikes more effectively. Mechanism 2: Improvement of endothelial functionDHA
preferentially incorporates into the membranes of endothelial cells and improves their function. Clinically, this improvement is measured by
flow-mediated dilation (FMD) , which increases by 1 to 2% after 8-12 weeks of supplementation. This translates into better adaptive capacity of arteries to variations in blood flow and pressure, thus more stable blood pressure in daily life.Mechanism 3: Reduction of arterial stiffness According to Kuszewski et al. 2020 in Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases
, 2400 mg/day of EPA+DHA (consisting of 2000 mg DHA + 400 mg EPA) for 16 weeks in subjects aged 50-80 years significantly reduces
cerebral arterial stiffness . Arterial stiffness is one of the major markers of vascular aging, strongly correlated with systolic pressure. The more flexible the arteries, the lower and more stable blood pressure remains, particularly in seniors.Mechanism 4: Slight reduction in heart rate Omega-3s slightly reduceresting heart rate
(typically -2 to -4 bpm after 12 weeks). According to Kuszewski 2020, this slight bradycardic effect contributes to the reduction of systolic pressure and overall improves cardiac efficiency. It is one of the mechanisms among the earliest to manifest.
GLOBAL CARDIOVASCULAR EFFECT Beyond blood pressure, omega-3s act on the entire cardiovascular risk profile
(decrease of 20-30%), HDL-cholesterol : triglycérides (baisse de 20-30 %), HDL-cholestérol (3-5% increase), inflammation (hs-CRP), heart rate, endothelial function. This is why they are at the heart of cardiological recommendations for both primary and secondary prevention.
4. Triglycerides vs ethyl esters: the x1.7 difference
Chemical form accounts for 70% of efficacy
VS ETHYL ESTERS
This is the most common trap on the market. Many cheap omega-3 supplements use a modified chemical form to reduce production costs : ethyl esters (EE). This form does not exist in nature and is significantly less absorbed by the body than the natural form found in fish.
The 3 omega-3 forms on the market
| Form | Bioavailability | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Natural triglycerides (TG) | Reference (100%) ★★★★★ | Natural, optimal form |
| Re-esterified triglycerides (rTG) | 110-120% ★★★★★ | Concentrated, superior bioavailability |
| Phospholipids (krill) | 110-130% ★★★★ | Good but low dosage (often < 200 mg) |
| Ethyl esters (EE) | 60-70% ★★ | To avoid for therapeutic effect |
How to distinguish TG and EE on a label
Check the label statement: " triglyceride form " or " TG » is mandatory for quality products. If nothing is specified, it is almost always low-grade ethyl esters (EE). Another clue: EE floats in water, TG sinks (empirical test). Oils Omegavie® used in Omega 3 Nutrition•pro are in natural triglyceride form, guaranteed by Polaris (specialized French laboratory).
5. TOTOX Index and purity label: the quality criterion
Oxidized oil is worse than no supplementation
FOR PURE OIL
Omega 3 fatty acids are fragile that oxidize rapidly in light, heat, and oxygen. Oxidized oil loses all its beneficial properties and can even become pro-inflammatory (the opposite of the desired effect). Oxidation is the major pitfall of the market, particularly for low-grade oils stored for long periods.
The TOTOX index: official quality marker
TheTOTOX index (TOTal OXidation) combines theperoxide index and theanisidine index. The international GOED (Global Organization for EPA and DHA) standard sets the limit at TOTOX < 26 to consider an oil as pure and fresh. The finest oils display a TOTOX < 15, a sign of exceptional freshness. Low-grade oils stored for long periods can exceed 50, which makes them potentially harmful to health.
Other quality criteria for omega 3 oil
(1) Documented origin : oil from wild-caught fish (anchovies, sardines) rather than farmed, guaranteeing a better EPA/DHA ratio and fewer contaminants. (2) Molecular distillation which eliminates mercury, dioxins, PCBs, and organochlorine pesticides. (3) Microencapsulation to protect the oil from oxidation during storage. (4) Recent manufacturing date (preferring batches less than 6 months old). (5) Opaque packaging (brown glass or opaque capsules) protecting from light.
The oils Omegavie® (Polaris laboratory, France) combines the highest standards: natural triglyceride form, low TOTOX index (often < 15), molecular distillation, antioxidant microencapsulation, complete traceability from source fish. It is the European reference standard for pharmaceutical-grade omega 3, used by Omega 3 Nutrition•pro.
Specific profiles: who benefits most from omega 3?
4 cardiovascular profiles where omega 3 is particularly indicated
Profile 1: Mild untreated hypertensive (130-149/85-94 mmHg)
This is the preferred profile for omega 3. According to the Miller 2014 meta-analysis, untreated hypertensives see a decrease 3 to 4 times greater than normotensive individuals (-4.51/-3.05 mmHg). For pre-hypertension or mild hypertension profiles, omega 3 can prevent or delay medication. Recommended dose: 2 g/day of EPA+DHA in triglyceride form, for at least 3 months, with self-measured blood pressure to evaluate the effect. To combine with appropriate lifestyle changes and ideally Tensioptine for a multi-mechanism approach.
Profile 2: Hypertensive with elevated cholesterol and triglycerides
An extremely common dual profile (20-30% of adults over 50 years old). Omega 3 is the nutritional active ingredient par excellence for this profile. According to the Basirat 2025 meta-analysis in Nutrients, doses > 2 g/day for more than 8 weeks reduce triglycerides by 41 to 57 mg/dL (-15 to -25%). The HDL effect is modest but positive. Combination with black garlic (Tensioptine) adds action on diastolic pressure and LDL oxidation. Recommended dose: 2 g/day of EPA+DHA + black garlic + lipid panel check at 3 and 6 months.
Profile 3: Senior 60+ in vascular and cognitive prevention
In seniors, omega 3 combines three major benefits. (1) Vascular : improvement in arterial flexibility, particularly important after age 60 (Kuszewski 2020). (2) Cognitive : DHA is essential for maintaining brain function. (3) Joint : beneficial anti-inflammatory effect on frequent joint pain. Senior dose: 1.5 to 2 g/day of EPA+DHA, in a 6-month course that can be renewed. Particularly interesting in synergy with vitamin D (very common deficiency after age 60).
Profile 4: Endurance or combat athlete
Athletes have omega 3 needs 20 to 30% higher than sedentary individuals. Oxidative stress from exercise accelerates phospholipid membrane oxidation, increasing essential fatty acid requirements. Documented benefits in athletes: better muscle recovery, reduced post-exercise pain (DOMS), improved heart function at rest, immune support during intense training. Recommended dose: 2 to 3 g/day of EPA+DHA, particularly during training overload or competition phases. Note: omega 3 does not appear on any doping substance lists.
Profile: Male, 54 years old, administrative manager, moderate exercise (cycling 2×/week, 45 min). Self-measured blood pressure averaging 144/92 mmHg (Grade 1 hypertension). Lipid panel: triglycerides 1.85 g/L (upper limit), LDL-cholesterol 1.52 g/L, HDL 0.42 g/L. No medication, doctor recommends lifestyle and dietary approach first. History: father hypertensive on treatment since age 65.
Proposed protocol: Omega 3 Omegavie® 2 g/day of EPA+DHA + Tensioptine 2 capsules/day + magnesium bisglycinate 300 mg/day. DASH diet, 45 min/day walking, targeted 4 kg weight loss, salt reduction to 5 g/day.
Results at 12 weeks (self-measured blood pressure + lipid panel): Average blood pressure dropped to 132/85 mmHg (-12/-7 mmHg), triglycerides at 1.32 g/L (-29%), LDL unchanged, HDL 0.48 g/L (+14%). At 6 months: consolidation, blood pressure at 128/82 mmHg, physician maintains non-pharmacological approach with annual monitoring. Treatment continued as maintenance (1.5 g EPA+DHA/day) + Tensioptine during stressful seasons.
Myths and misconceptions about omega 3
5 false ideas that prevent effective supplementation
Myth 1: "Olive oil and rapeseed oil provide enough omega 3"
FALSE for marine EPA+DHA. Rapeseed oil and walnut oil containALA (alpha-linolenic acid), an omega 3 of plant origin. The body must convert it to EPA and DHA, but this conversion is very inefficient in humans (5-10% maximum, often less). For cardiovascular health, it's thedirect marine EPA+DHA that matters. Plant-based ALA is useful but does not replace marine omega 3s. The two are complementary, not equivalent.
Myth 2: "Omega 3s inevitably cause fish-tasting reflux"
FALSE for quality oils. Fish-tasting burps are typical of low-quality oxidized oils or in ethyl ester form. Modern oils in natural triglyceride form, microencapsulated, cause this phenomenon far less frequently. Taking capsules at the beginning of a meal (never on an empty stomach) and storing in the refrigerator further reduces this risk. This is one of the major advantages of microencapsulated Omegavie®.
Myth 3: "More DHA = better for the brain"
NUANCED. DHA is indeed essential for the brain, but an EPA/DHA imbalance is not ideal. For cardiovascular health and blood pressure, a balanced EPA/DHA ratio (close to 1:1) or slightly DHA-oriented gives the best results. For specifically brain-related indications (memory, vision), a more DHA-oriented ratio may be preferred. Omegavie® formulas are optimized for good EPA/DHA balance.
Myth 4: "Omega 3s thin the blood too much and it's dangerous"
FALSE at physiological doses. The blood-thinning effect of omega 3s is mild and physiological at doses of 1-3 g/day. This is a beneficial improvement in blood fluidity, comparable to that obtained through proper hydration. Hemorrhagic risk only becomes measurable at very high doses (> 4-5 g/day) or in combination with anticoagulants. Recommendations: inform your doctor before surgery, stop 7 days before an invasive procedure.
Myth 5: "Omega 3s are useless according to the latest studies"
FALSE, this is a misinterpretation of recent trials. A few large studies (VITAL, ASCEND) did show mixed results in general primary prevention. But these studies used low doses (1 g/day or less) and included very diverse populations. Targeted meta-analyses (Miller 2014 for blood pressure, Basirat 2025 for metabolic syndrome) actually show significant effects in targeted profiles at adequate doses. Precision nutrition > generic nutrition.
6. Optimal dosage and treatment duration
1 to 2 g/day of EPA+DHA for a minimum of 3 months
FOR BLOOD PRESSURE SUPPORT
Doses validated by clinical trials
| Indication | EPA+DHA/day | Minimum duration |
|---|---|---|
| General cardiovascular prevention | 500-1000 mg | continuous course |
| Mild hypertension (130-149/85-94 mmHg) | 1500-2000 mg | 3 months |
| Moderate hypertriglyceridemia | 2000-3000 mg | 3-6 months |
| Metabolic syndrome | 2000 mg+ | 6 months |
| Intensive athlete | 2000-3000 mg | continuous course |
When and how to take omega 3?
Take at the beginning of meals recommended: the presence of dietary fats improves the absorption of omega 3 fatty acids (up to +50% bioavailability). Never take on an empty stomach to avoid fish-tasting reflux. Dividing the dose into 2 intakes (noon + evening) optimizes membrane incorporation and limits saturable absorption. Store in the refrigerator after opening to slow oxidation. Minimum 3-month course, ideally renewable throughout the year.
Bonus studies: the extended scientific foundation
Beyond the 4 main sources of this article, several publications strengthen the rationale for cardiovascular omega 3. Mozaffarian and Wu 2011 (reviewed in Journal of the American College of Cardiology) documented the pleiotropic effects of omega 3 (blood pressure, heart rhythm, inflammation, triglycerides) and their impact on cardiovascular mortality. Calder 2018 published in Biochimica Biophysica Acta a comprehensive review of the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of resolvins and protectins derived from EPA and DHA. Wang et al. 2012 (meta-analysis) confirmed the reduction of arterial stiffness with long-term marine omega 3 supplementation. This convergence of studies places omega 3 among the best-documented cardiovascular nutrients in the world.
7. Omega 3 + Tensioptine Synergy: the complete cardio protocol
The winning combination for total cardiovascular coverage
Omega 3 alone has a moderate blood pressure effect (-1.5 to -4.5 mmHg depending on the profile). Combined with targeted phytotherapy active ingredients for blood pressure, their full cardiovascular potential unfolds. Here's why the combination Omega 3 Omegavie® + Tensioptine is the most complete cardio protocol from Nutrition•pro.
Coverage of the 5 major cardiovascular mechanisms
| Mechanism | Omega 3 | Tensioptine |
|---|---|---|
| Endothelial inflammation | ★★★★★ Major action | ★★★ Antioxidants |
| Endothelial NO vasodilation | ★★★ Modulation | ★★★★★ Black garlic + olive leaf |
| ACE inhibition (systolic) | ★ Indirect | ★★★★★ Olive leaf |
| Heart rate / palpitations | ★★★ Mild | ★★★★★ Hawthorn |
| Anti-stress / cortisol | ★★ Indirect | ★★★★★ Rhodiola |
| Triglycerides / cholesterol | ★★★★★ Direct action | ★★★ Black garlic |
| Arterial stiffness | ★★★★ Elasticity | ★★★ Vasodilation |
Complete cardio protocol dosage
The optimal protocol for a minimum of 3 months: Omega 3 Omegavie®: 2-3 capsules/day (at the beginning of the meal) to provide 1400-2100 mg of EPA+DHA + Tensioptine: 2 capsules/day (1 in the morning + 1 at midday) for synergistic intake of olive leaf, black garlic, hawthorn, rhodiola and royal jelly. Total: 4-5 doses spread throughout the day, approximately €60 for 1 month of complete treatment, to be renewed 3 times for stable effects. Lipid panel check-up at 3 months recommended.
Omega 3 has a mild blood-thinningeffect. If you are taking an anticoagulant (warfarin, DOACs such as Xarelto/Eliquis), inform your doctor before supplementation. Stop 7 days before any surgery or invasive procedure (including dental). Fish allergy: choose an omega 3 of algal origin. Pregnancy: possible and even recommended (DHA beneficial for fetal development), to be validated with your doctor.
Frequently asked questions about omega 3 and blood pressure
Do omega 3s really lower blood pressure?
Yes. According to Miller et al. 2014 in American Journal of Hypertension (meta-analysis of 70 RCTs), EPA+DHA reduces systolic by 1.52 mmHg and diastolic by 0.99 mmHg on average. In untreated hypertensive patients, the effect is 4 times more pronounced: -4.51/-3.05 mmHg. A dose ≥ 2 g/day is necessary to observe the maximal effect on diastolic pressure. This is one of the best-documented nutritional effects on blood pressure.
What dose of omega 3 for blood pressure?
For a significant blood pressure effect, aim for at least 2 g/day of combined EPA+DHA. For a general preventive approach, 1 to 1.5 g/day is sufficient. The natural triglyceride (TG) form is 1.7 times more bioavailable than low-grade ethyl esters (EE). Omegavie® capsules from Nutrition•pro provide approximately 700 mg of EPA+DHA per capsule, so 2-3 capsules/day for the therapeutic target.
EPA or DHA: which is most important?
Both are essential and work synergistically.EPA is more powerful oninflammation and blood fluidity (precursor of anti-inflammatory resolvins). DHA is more important for endothelial function, the arterial stiffness and the brain. For blood pressure, a balanced EPA/DHA ratio (close to 1:1) or slightly DHA-oriented delivers the best results. Omegavie® oils are optimized for this balance.
How long does it take to see the effects of omega 3 on blood pressure?
The first cardiovascular effects are measurable from 8 to 12 weeks of daily intake. Lipid markers (triglycerides) shift faster, from 4 weeks onward. For blood pressure, the maximum effect is observed between 3 and 6 months of continuous supplementation, through progressive improvement of endothelial function and reduction of arterial stiffness. Consistency is crucial.
How to choose a good omega 3 supplement?
Three essential criteria: (1) Triglyceride form (TG) rather than ethyl esters (EE) — 70% superior bioavailability. (2) Low TOTOX index (< 26 according to GOED, ideally < 15) to guarantee freshness. (3) EPA+DHA concentration listed per capsule (aim for 600-700 mg/capsule minimum). Bonus: molecular distillation (removes mercury and PCBs), microencapsulation (anti-oxidation, anti-reflux), traceable origin. Omegavie® oils from Polaris meet all these criteria.
Do omega 3s have side effects?
Very well tolerated at physiological doses (1-3 g/day). Rare adverse effects: fish-flavored burps (virtually eliminated with quality microencapsulated oils), mild digestive upset at the start, slight blood thinning. Precautions: inform your doctor before surgery, caution if taking anticoagulants, known fish allergy (prefer algae-based sources in that case).
Marine omega 3 (fish) or plant-based (flax, rapeseed)?
Both are useful but not equivalent. Flax and rapeseed provideALA (alpha-linolenic acid), plant-based omega 3 that the body must convert to EPA and DHA. This conversion is very inefficient in humans (5-10% maximum). For cardiovascular health and blood pressure, direct marine EPA+DHA is what really counts. The two are complementary: daily ALA from food + targeted EPA/DHA supplementation.
Can you take omega 3s long-term?
Yes, without particular limitation at physiological doses (1-3 g/day). EPA+DHA omega 3s are essential nutrients your body needs to receive regularly. In fact, it's the prolonged duration that determines maximum cardiovascular benefits (complete membrane incorporation). Ideally, aim for continuous consumption (diet + supplementation), with possibly 1-2 week breaks every 6 months to reassess needs.
Do marine omega 3s contain pollutants (mercury, PCBs)?
Quality fish oils undergo molecular distillation which eliminates 99%+ of pollutants (mercury, dioxins, PCBs, organochlorine pesticides). Quality supplements display purity analyses compliant with the strictest European standards. Omegavie® Polaris oils are certified on these criteria. Low-grade non-distilled oils may contain residues, which is why prioritizing pharmaceutical quality is essential for prolonged use.
Omega 3 and pregnancy: recommendations?
Marine omega 3s, particularly DHA, are strongly recommended during pregnancy : essential for fetal brain and retinal development. EFSA recommends 200-300 mg/day of additional DHA during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Prioritize pharmaceutical-grade oil certified pollutant-free. Always validate with your gynecologist or midwife, particularly for high doses.
How much does an effective omega 3 course cost?
A pharmaceutical-grade omega 3 course (TG form, low TOTOX, Omegavie®) generally costs €20 to €35 per month. Omega 3 Nutrition•pro at €29.99 (120 capsules, 1-2 months of treatment) offers excellent value for money with pharmaceutical standard. For the complete cardio protocol (Omega 3 + Tensioptine), budget approximately €60/month over 3 months, or €2/day for a documented comprehensive approach.
Is there a risk combining omega 3 and anticoagulants?
The combination requires medical supervision. Omega 3s have a mild blood-thinning effect that can potentiate: warfarin (INR monitoring), aspirin, clopidogrel, direct oral anticoagulants (Xarelto, Eliquis). This is not an absolute contraindication but requires your prescribing physician's advice. At moderate doses (1-2 g/day), the risk is low. Systematically stop 7 days before any surgery, dental included.
Glossary
- EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
- Marine omega 3 fatty acid with 20 carbons and 5 double bonds (20:5 n-3). Precursor of anti-inflammatory resolvins, primary action on inflammation and blood fluidity.
- DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
- Marine omega 3 fatty acid with 22 carbons and 6 double bonds (22:6 n-3). Major component of neuronal and cardiac membranes. Action on endothelial function and arterial stiffness.
- Natural triglycerides (TG)
- Natural chemical form of omega 3s in fish: 3 fatty acids linked to a glycerol molecule. Reference bioavailability (100%).
- Ethyl esters (EE)
- Modified form of omega 3s where fatty acids are linked to ethanol. Less expensive to produce but 30-40% less absorbed than natural triglycerides. Should be avoided for therapeutic effect.
- TOTOX index
- Total oxidation index of omega 3 oils, combining peroxide index and anisidine index. GOED standard: < 26. Best oils display < 15. The lower the TOTOX, the fresher and purer the oil.
- Omegavie®
- Commercial brand of the French Polaris laboratory, specializing in pharmaceutical-grade omega 3 oils. Guarantees triglyceride form, low TOTOX, molecular distillation, microencapsulation and complete traceability.
- Resolvins and protectins
- Anti-inflammatory lipid mediators derived from EPA and DHA. Promote active resolution of chronic inflammation, particularly beneficial for the vascular endothelium.
Scientific sources
- Miller PE, Van Elswyk M, Alexander DD. Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid and blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Am J Hypertens 2014;27(7):885-96. DOI : 10.1093/ajh/hpu024
- Basirat A, Merino-Torres JF. Marine-Based Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients 2025;17(20):3279. DOI : 10.3390/nu17203279
- Kuszewski JC, Wong RHX, Wood LG, Howe PRC. Effects of fish oil and curcumin supplementation on cerebrovascular function in older adults: A randomized controlled trial. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2020;30(4):625-633. DOI : 10.1016/j.numecd.2019.12.010
- Lorente-Cebrián S, Costa AGV, Navas-Carretero S, et al. Role of omega-3 fatty acids in obesity, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases: a review of the evidence. J Physiol Biochem 2013;69(3):633-51. DOI : 10.1007/s13105-013-0265-4
