The role of omega-3 fatty acids in inflammatory processes

Today, it is considered that inflammatory processes in the body significantly contribute to the development of numerous chronic diseases. By studying omega-3 fatty acids, it was established that they have an impact on the suppression of inflammatory processes. The mechanism of action involves a change in the transcription of key inflammatory genes. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids compete with omega-6 fatty acids for the same enzymes, thereby synthesizing fewer inflammatory mediators. Omega-3 fatty acids have another advantage, which is that they can be converted into anti-inflammatory molecules such as resolvins, protectins and endocannabinoids.

Krill oil as a superior form of omega-3 fatty acids

Sitni morski račić latinskog naziva Euphausia superba već više od desetljeća intrigira znanstvenu zajednicu zbog sadržaja omega-3 masnih kiselina koje su u ulju krila dostupne u posebnom obliku. U ulju krila, glavnina EPA (eikosapentaenska) i DHA (dokosaheksaenska) vezana je na fosfolipide, posebice fosfatidil kolin.  Tako vezane masne kiseline učinkovito se prenose po tijelu i ugrađuju u stanične membrane. Kada EPA i DHA postanu dijelom stanične membrane, mogu utjecati na fluidnost, signalne i metaboličke procese u stanici.

The chemical form of omega-3 fatty acids is also suitable when it comes to absorption from the digestive system, because phospholipids of fatty acids do not require bile salts for digestion - they spontaneously form micelles, are soluble in water and thus have easier absorption.

Several studies have compared the effects of krill oil and conventional fish oil preparations, and the results systematically indicate better bioavailability of krill oil.When comparing the level of EPA and DHA in these preparations, it is concluded that almost twice the lower dose of EPA+DHA from krill oil is needed compared to omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil for the same or better effect.

Synergy of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E and selenium

The beneficial effects of krill oil mostly come from the polyunsaturated fatty acids EPA and DHA, however, the oil also contains vitamins A and E, the red pigment astaxanthin, a special type of flavonoid, and phosphatidyl-choline, all substances with antioxidant activity. Therefore, shrimp wing oil has a dual role - anti-inflammatory action established for the content of EPA and DHA, but also antioxidant action.

Author: Vitaminoteka nutritionist team

Literature:

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