More Good News on Omega-3 for Heart and Health

Today’s shoppers are more educated than ever before but have less disposable income to spend on high ticket items. This trend presents a tremendous opportunity to supplement business owners that are eager to offer well formulated products that will provide consumers with the biggest bang for their buck.

In stark contrast to ingredients that are scarcely known and/or steeped in controversy, omega-3 fatty acids, have a well-known history of safety and are associated with a number of credible health benefits. According to SPINS (a market research and information provider based in Schaumburg, IL), the top-ranking ingredients (holding the highest sales) in 2010 are reflective of the primary health concerns facing consumers today. These include cardiovascular, cognitive, visual, digestive, immune, and bone and joint health; energy; and weight management. Omega-3 fatty acids address seven of out of these top eight health concerns, making it a much-sought after supplement for all the right reasons!

It is therefore, not surprising that in September 2010, Frost & Sullivan (a business research and consulting firm with over 40 global offices) predicted a 10% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for marine- and algal-based omega-3 supplements, and expected sales to reach $525 million by 2013. ConsumerLabs’ surveys show that omega-3 supplements have been the most popular supplement choice each year for the last three years (2010 to 2012).^2-3

Known Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

A flood of evidence from credible studies suggests omega-3 fatty acids, both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), may play a major role in cell membrane function and in the development of the eyes and brain in the fetal stage. An optimal intake of omega-3 fatty acids shows that it may help reduce the risk of several chronic health conditions. Some of these are listed below:

Cognitive health - In a double-blind, randomized study, controlled trial assessing the efficacy of a DHA-rich fish-oil supplement found that DHA may be useful in slowing cognitive decline. The study was conducted over 18-months in cognitively-normal older adults.⁴

Cardiovascular health - Omega-3 fatty acids are known to promote:^5-6

• Circulation


• Healthy blood pressure


• Reduce blood triglyceride levels and low-density lipids


• Reduce the risk of heart attack/stroke

• Mental Health – Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids may help improve moods, reduce anxiety and depression. It also suggests that omega-3s may offer protective effects in mood disorders. Increasing evidence supports the importance of omega-3 fatty acids for mental health since DHA is a major structural component of neuronal membranes.^7-8


• Immunity – Some evidence from research suggests that EPA and DHA may play a role in reducing the levels of cytokines (compounds that promote inflammation) in the body.⁹


• Diabetes – Individuals with regular intake of omega-3 fatty acids were associated with lower risk of diabetes.¹⁰


• Age-Related Hearing and Sight – Studies have shown an inverse association between higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids and loss of hearing. Similarly, a higher intake of omega-3 supplements has been associated with lower risk of age-related macular degeneration.^11-12

Omega-3’s Protective Effects against Inflammatory Processes

A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition demonstrates that an increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids may reduce a specific anti-inflammatory marker.¹³

Scientists have generally accepted that a low circulation level of soluble adhesion molecules is healthy, particularly soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (slCAM-1) that are involved in damage to cells. The main objective of the study conducted by lead researcher Dr. Yang Yang, was to demonstrate that oral supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids protect against atherosclerosis by inhibiting inflammatory processes, which is reflected by the plasma concentrations of soluble adhesion molecules. Results from Yang’s experiments showed reductions in slCAM-1 in both healthy individuals and in those with abnormal blood lipid levels through supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids. The results suggest that it may prevent both the development and progression of atherosclerosis. The team suggests that “omega-3 reduces inflammation by selectively inhibiting monocyte activation, and not endothelial activation.”

A separate study conducted by the National Institute of Health and Medical Research and led by Dr. Touvier, showed that an association between slCAM-1 and cancer risk was modulated by omega-3 intake. The team of researchers compared dietary data from people with cancer and healthy people with similar characteristics. They observed that slCAM-1 levels were associated with omega-3 intake and this was related to certain types of cancers such as breast and prostate. slCAM-1 concentration was observed in people with below average intake of omega-3s and this was positively associated with increased cancer risk. Researchers concluded that the results of their “findings suggest that n−3 PUFA intake may counteract the procarcinogenic actions of sICAM-1.” Scientists believe that omega-3 may work by decreasing the expression of s1CAM-1 or by intervening the pro-cancer pathway stimulated by lCAM-1.

To sum it up, the two studies together indicate the potentially preventive role of omega-3 fatty acids in atherosclerosis and certain types of cancer by reducing or minimizing the circulation of slCAM-1.

More Research Adds More Credibility to Omega-3 Benefits

The existing body of research on omega-3, new developments and increasing consumer interest only serve to re-affirm and re-position omega-3 supplements as a highly marketable supplement.

The most convenient and cost-effective way is to find a capsule manufacturer who can help you produce high-quality omega-3 supplements. Look for manufacturers who have state-of-the-art equipment to produce high-quality softgels with rapid production turnaround. Also, make sure you partner with a capsule manufacturer who can give you a fish oil with that has higher, purer concentration of EPA and DHA, resulting in quality benefits for your customers.

Omega-3 supplements can be manufactured from fish (including Krill), algae, soy, and flax, with each source offering unique benefits. Contact an omega-3 capsule manufacturer today or ask for a free nutraceutical quote.