Why Optimal EFAs™?


Fatty acid imbalances are common in societies like ours that consumes an abundance of processed foods wit artificial ingredients and hydrogenated (trans) fats, and have an over-reliance on grains. Essential fatty acid (EFA) deficits generally occur in combination; therefore, supplementation with a balanced combination of EFAs makes logical sense.

Optimal EFAs™ supplies a unique blend of the highest quality fish, flaxseed and borage oils, tested for purity, and provides balanced proportions of ALA, EPA, DHA, GLA, and Oleic acids as indicated by current research to support good health.

Flaxseed oil is a very rich source of Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid. Flaxseed oil also contains Oleic acid, the same fatty acid found in olive oil. Interestingly, the Mediterranean diet, which is associated with protection from heart disease and cancer, is high in ALA and Oleic acid. About 10% of the ALA in flaxseed oil is converted to EPA, the fatty acid found in fish oil that has many health-promoting benefits. But more importantly, increased consumption of ALA inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory compounds (such as prostaglandins and cytokines) and inhibits platelet aggregation thus reducing the risk of arterial blockage.

Fish oils are a rich source of long-chained polyunsaturated Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. DHA is a vital component of cell membranes, and is especially important for optimal function of the brain and eyes. Both EPA and DHA are important for maintaining healthy blood lipids and inhibiting the conversion of arachidonic acid (a fatty acid that is associated with cancer and heart disease) into pro-inflammatory chemicals ( such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes ) that cause pain and inflammation. The FDA recently established that increased consumption of EPA and DHA found in fish oils helps protect against heart disease.

Borage oil is an excellent source of Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is considered "the good Omega-6 fatty acid". Like Flaxseed oil, borage oil is also a source of Oleic acid. GLA’s main benefit come from its metabolites, which have anti-inflammatory properties and inhibit platelet aggregation.

Oleic acid, the chief fatty acid found in olive oil, is also supplied by flaxseed and borage oils. Oleic acid supports lower levels of blood glucose and lower insulin levels in type-2 diabetics, as well as healthy levels of blood lipids.

The key message to remember is this – Americans generally consume too much Omega-6 fats (such as corn oil) high in linoleic and arachidonic acids, and too much hydrogenated "trans" fats, all of which promote inflammation. Additionally, we generally consume too little Omega-3 s and other fatty acids which are known to be "health promoting".

Supplementation with health-promoting essential fatty acids such as ALA, EPA, DHA, GLA, and Oleic acid found in Optimal EFAs™ is well documented in current research to provide safe and effective support of overall health.

For Sound Advice, Consult Your Healthcare Professional

Statements made herein have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition.