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Orthomega® V is a plant-based formula that provides high-concentration omega-3 fatty acids sourced from algae.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential cornerstones of human nutrition. They are deemed "essential" because we need them for proper health but cannot produce them on our own. We must therefore consume these fats through diet or supplementation.
Since omega-3 fatty acids are known to benefit cardiovascular health, support healthy brain function and cognition, and maintain normal inflammatory balance, achieving the proper balance of omega-3s has become an integral health strategy requiring supplementation for most people.
Orthomega® V provides 450 mg of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and 225 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) per soft gel as re-esterified triglycerides, the preferred form for superior absorption. Vitamin E (as mixed tocopherols) and rosemary extract are also added to ensure maximum purity and freshness. Orthomega® V is a unique fish oil alternative that contains the highest available concentration of vegan-sourced EPA and DHA. This formula is independently tested to ensure potency and purity.
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Serving Size: 1 Soft Gel Capsule Servings Per Container: 30 & 60 |
Amount/Serving |
| Calories | 15 |
| Total Fat | 1 g |
| DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) | 450 mg |
| EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) | 225 mg |
Other Ingredients: Marine Algae Oil (from Schizochytrium sp.), Vegan Soft Gel Capsule (Glycerin, Modified Corn Startch, Carregeenan, Water), Natural Mixed Tocopherols, Sunflower Lecithin and Rosemary Extract (Leaf).
Does Not Contain: Fish shellfish, gluten, yeast, artificial colors or flavors.
1 soft gel capsule per day or as recommended by your health care professional.
Cautions: If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before taking this product.
Omega-3 Form and Function
Triglycerides vs. Ethyl Esters
While the amount of EPA and DHA provided in an omega-3 product is important for efficacy, the type of oil delivered is another significant factor in defining effectiveness. The human body is accustomed to absorbing and digesting EPA and DHA in the triglyceride form. Even though triglyceride-based oils are the preferred form for superior absorption, the vast majority of omega-3 products available on the market are in the ethyl ester form. While ethyl esters allow manufacturers to achieve higher concentrations of EPA and DHA, their unusual structure is resistant to the digestive enzymes (lipases) that enable fat breakdown. Orthomega® V comes exclusively in the higher absorption triglyceride form. In a study comparing EPA and DHA digestion in both the natural triglyceride and ethyl ester form, five common digestive lipase enzymes were shown to more readily digest fish oil in the natural triglyceride as compared to the ethyl ester substrate.
A study conducted by omega-3 research pioneer, Dr. Jorn Dyerberg, demonstrated that omega-3s in the re-esterified triglyceride form are more efficiently digested and, therefore, 70% more absorbable than omega-3s in the ethyl ester form.
Omega-3 Depletion
An accumulating body of research shows that the typical Western diet does not provide enough omega-3s for optimal health. Additionally, insufficient conversion of ALA to the active EPA and DHA may reduce the amount available for use in organs and tissues. Symptoms of omega-3 deficiency are common and often overlooked. These may include dry, itchy or flaky skin, poor sleep quality, poor circulation, eye discomfort, and mood imbalance. Most studies over the past three decades have focused on EPA and DHA.
Cardiovascular and Blood Sugar Health
Omega-3 fatty acids have long been known to benefit cardiovascular health. The well-known GISSI-Prevezione trial found that just 1 g per day of omega-3 fatty acids had a significant impact on cardiovascular health after three to four months of consumption.6 EPA and DHA have been shown to modulate levels of fat in the blood, and a metaanalysis of 31 placebo-controlled trials found that for each gram of omega-3s consumed, there was improved support for healthy blood pressure levels already within the normal range. Population studies have also reported that omega-3 fatty acids support better blood sugar balance in populations consuming large amounts of the n-3 long-chain PUFAs.
DHA and Cardiovascular Effects
Orthomega® V contains extra DHA (2:1 DHA:EPA ratio) to support optimal cardiovascular health. DHA has been found to have positive effects on key aspects of cardiovascular health, including balancing blood lipids, stabilizing cardiac function and increasing relaxation of arteries to help support normal blood pressure levels. Mori et al. has reported that 4 g per day of DHA had a significant impact on arterial health and helped to maintain healthy blood pressure levels. Additionally, cerebrovascular health has been found to be supported by optimal levels of phospholipid DHA, indicating that sufficient amounts of DHA support brain circulatory health. A systematic review of 11 randomized, controlled trials published between 1996 and 2011 analyzed the association between DHA and changes in concentrations of blood fat profile components. The review found that DHA supplementation maintains healthy blood lipid levels in people with cardiovascular concerns. DHA, but not EPA, has also been found to enhance dilation of the arteries by decreasing the release of calcium within smooth muscle that causes arterial constriction. This novel mechanism of action makes DHA the omega-3 fatty acid of choice for those with blood pressure concerns.
Additional Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
In addition to their well-known cardiovascular benefits, omega-3 fats play a central role in brain development, mood enhancement, improved cognition, joint comfort and visual acuity.
Increased Mental Focus
In a British study, omega-3 blood levels were shown to be directly related to improved measures of cognition, performance and behavior among healthy children with below-average reading ability.
Joint Comfort
A dose of 1,200 mg per day of omega-3 essential fatty acids was found to improve back and joint discomfort from exercise or overexertion among 125 people, with 88% choosing to continue supplementation after the study’s end. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to improve similarly tender joints and morning stiffness after three months of consumption.
Visual Acuity
A study evaluating the long-term effects of EPA and DHA on visual development in 136 school-age Inuit children exposed to high levels of n-3 PUFAs during gestation found beneficial effects of DHA intake on visual acuity. Eating oily fish at least once per week compared with less than once per week was also found to enhance visual clarity and help support healthy macular aging.
