A new review published in Lipids has highlighted the potential of plant-based omega-3 oils in promoting gut health.1
The article delves into how omega-3 oils rich in stearidonic acid (SDA) can influence the microbiome, promote optimal gut barrier function, help mitigate systemic inflammation and boost overall wellness.
Published by researchers from the University of Southampton, the piece also explores the rising interest in plant-based omega-3 sources.
According to Baker et al., this trend is primarily driven by the increased intrigue towards both ethical and sustainable dietary choices — with many now turning away from fish oil products in favour of more environmentally-friendly options.
The review covers:
- How very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLF-PUFAs) present in plant-based extracts can balance the gut microbiome
- How VLF-PUFAs exhibit a prebiotic effect within the gut
- The potential of SDA-rich oils in mitigating inflammation as well as promoting gut barrier and immune function
- How SDA oils modulate the gut-brain/gut-liver axes
- How users can gain similar omega-3-related health and wellness benefits from plant-based sources compared with traditional fish oil
- Why plant-based omega-3s are more sustainable than traditional fish oils
Notably, the researchers tout the benefits of Nature Crops International’s branded Ahiflower oil, which is derived from Buglossoides arvensis.
Oil from this particular botanical species is rich in SDA, which promotes efficient omega-3 EPA conversion and DHA formation in the liver and brain; despite its inability to raise DHA levels in the red blood cells.
This suggests that the beneficial fatty acids produces are being metabolised and used by the body more efficiently, according to Baker.
“As we uncover the power of omega-3s in promoting cardiovascular, gut, skin, immune-inflammatory and mental health, there will continue to be an increase in demand for these products — creating an unsustainable supply chain if we were to rely solely on marine sources,” she says.
“To overcome this issue, it’s crucial to embrace plant-based omega-3 options — which are demonstrably beneficial for all these health goals.”
“Ahiflower oil is one of nature’s richest sources of omega-3, and this newly published research only further underscores its key role in overall wellness. By choosing a clean-label, regeneratively farmed omega-3 solution, supplement manufacturers can not only enhance the benefits of their product, but also choose a sustainable option,” Baker concludes.
Reference
1 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40574533/#:~:text=Recent%20studies%20highlight%20the%20efficient,distinct%20SDA%2Dderived%20metabolites).