MEDICALINE Omega Medica is a dietary supplement containing fish oil in the form of capsules. It is a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), i.e. representatives of the omega-3 fatty acid group. They show a multitude of pro-health effects, among others, they protect the cardiovascular system, reduce inflammation and support the health of the nervous system.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a non-organic compound belonging to polyunsaturated fatty acids. It is classified as an exogenous substance, which means that the human body is unable to synthesize it on its own. Therefore, it is necessary to provide it or its precursors with food or through supplementation.

In the system, DHA has a lot of functions, especially within the brain – for example, building cell membranes and participating in the secretion of neurohormones. The availability of DHA also determines the proper development of the fetus and may stabilize the mood swings occurring during pregnancy. As for the food sources of DHA, these include mainly fatty sea fish and algae.

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) – similarly to DHA, belongs to the group of omega-3 acids, which are part of essential fatty acids (EFA). EPA is considered a substance with a unique anti-inflammatory potential and also shows an activity regulating triglyceride levels. In addition, it improves the pulse flow rate between neurons, resulting in an improved brain function. Interestingly, EPA is a precursor to DHA in the human body and similarly to DHA, it can be found primarily in fatty fish and algae.

The influence of omega-3 fatty acids on the cardiovascular system
Omega-3 acids are a basic element in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Studies have shown that these fats have anticoagulant properties, thereby reducing the risk of complications caused by blood vessel occlusion.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids are also known for their effect on the lipid profile is. They are able to lower the LDL fraction, i.e. low-density lipoprotein, which is called "bad cholesterol". At the same time, omega-3 fatty acids increase the level of high-density lipoproteins, i.e. the HDL fraction. According to many associations, high levels of HDL and low LDL levels minimize the risk of heart attack, stroke, and ischemic heart disease. The studies also showed that omega-3 acids lower blood triglyceride levels, which should also be considered as a factor reducing the incidence of cardiovascular disease.

The action of omega-3 fatty acids on the nervous system
In the brain, omega-3 fatty acids play the role of building blocks – they are a component of the myelin sheath of neurons. It is essentially an insulator around the neuron, ensuring the spreading of the electric impulse in the desired direction. An incorrectly formed sheath is the cause of many neurological diseases.

Another way to communicate between the nerve cells is through the chemical synapse. The connection between the two neurons occurs here through the ejection of substances called neurotransmitters. Here, too, omega-3 fatty acids play a significant role. They are a substrate for the synthesis of neurotransmitters, more specifically serotonin and dopamine. Their appropriate level in the brain determines our well-being and promotes the feeling of positive emotions.

Omega-3 acids also promote proper blood supply to the brain, providing it with adequate nutrition and oxygen availability. They are part of the phospholipids that build the cell membrane. They provide it with adequate permeability and half-liquid state, which are crucial for the proper nutrition and functioning of the cell. Omega-3 acids are also able to regulate the composition of the membrane if it has been disturbed by, for example, too high supply of saturated fats in the diet.

Anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 acids
A large supply of omega-3 acids may counteract the pro-inflammatory properties of omega-6 acids, which abound in the standard diet. Due to the high supply of unfavorable fats, it seems very justified to increase the supply of fatty acids with antagonistic properties.

Another anti-inflammatory property of omega-3 fatty acids is the inhibition of the phospholipase A2 enzyme, which produces pro-inflammatory factors. A reduced level of inflammation may contribute to better regeneration of the body and improve general well-being, especially in case of people with high physical and mental activity.

Support for eyesight
Large amounts of omega-3 acids are found in the retina of an eye. It was also shown that their insufficient supply during pregnancy and the first 2 years of life results in frequent irregularities in the development of this tissue. Another study found that long-term omega-3 supplementation reduced the risk of macular lesions and prevented the destruction of pigment cells. This means that long-term supplementation of fish oil with a high content of DHA may contribute to the good condition of the eyes.

The importance of omega-3 for pregnant women
For proper brain development of the fetus, an increased supply of omega-3 acids is necessary. Due to the large occurrence of polyunsaturated acids as the building blocks of tissues in the human body, pregnant and breastfeeding women should increase the supply of DHA in particular, in order to cover 100% of the demand.

Due to the previously described function of omega-3 acids in the production of hormones determining well-being, i.e. serotonin and dopamine, supplementation with these fats is used in counteracting mood swings during pregnancy.

In summary, MEDICALINE Omega Medica is a preparation containing docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic acids, which has a health-promoting effect. The supplement guarantees an adequate supply of omega-3 acids, which is particularly important in case of pregnant women, as well as young or active individuals. It can also be an element of prevention of diseases of the nervous system, cardiovascular system, and eyes, and may also be helpful in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome, which according to statistics affects a growing part of society.