EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are long-chain omega-3 fatty acids mainly found in marine sources such as fatty fish and fish liver, and algae oil. They are important building blocks of cell membranes, with DHA being especially abundant in the brain and eyes, while EPA is more active in cell signaling processes. Unlike plant-based omega-3s, which the body can only convert into small amounts of EPA and DHA, these fatty acids are most effectively obtained directly from food or supplements. Because they are integral to the structure and function of our cells, EPA and DHA are often highlighted as key components of a balanced diet.
Both omega-3 and omega-6 are important for a normal functioning body. Omega-6 is the predominant fatty acid in our cell membrane. Omega-3, in addition to being part of the cell membrane, is crucial for repairing cells. For the omega-3 to be able to do its job, the ratio between omega-6 and 3 it is beneficial that the ratio between these important fatty acids are 5:1 or lower. In western diets it is said that we generally consume 20 times the amount of omega-6 that is recommended, which means many people may have low omega-3 levels in the cell membranes.
In 2015 Eqology created a self administrative home test kit to help analyse the fatty acid composition in the blood. The EQ Omega-3 Test tells you your omega-3 and omega-6 ratio and omega-3 levels in addition to 11 fatty acids in your body which reflects your diet.
Pure Arctic Oil is a full spectrum omega-3 product containing ingredients sourced sustainably from Arctic waters.
