FAQs
What is ALA?
ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) is an essential omega-3 fatty acid.
The human body cannot synthesize ALA, so it must come from the diet.
ALA is found mainly in plant sources such as Sacha Inchi, flaxseed, chia, and walnuts.
In the body, ALA is used to maintain normal lipid metabolism and cell membrane structure.
What is EPA?
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid.
EPA is involved in the regulation of inflammation and immune signaling.
The body can produce small amounts of EPA from ALA, although conversion is limited.
Marine sources such as fish and algae contain EPA.
What is DHA?
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid.
DHA is a major structural component of the brain, retina, and nervous system.
The body can convert EPA into DHA in small quantities.
DHA is naturally present in fish, algae, and marine oils.
How does ALA convert into EPA and DHA?
ALA is converted into EPA through a series of enzymatic steps.
A smaller portion of EPA can be converted into DHA.
The conversion rate is limited, and efficiency varies between individuals.
EPA and DHA cannot be converted back into ALA.
What is the role of ALA in the body?
ALA contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels.
ALA provides the starting point for long-chain omega-3 synthesis.
ALA supports the integrity and flexibility of cell membranes.
ALA functions as a precursor for molecules involved in inflammation resolution.
How does omega-3 support cholesterol balance?
ALA contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels, according to EFSA.
EPA and DHA support triglyceride regulation.
Omega-3 fatty acids help maintain healthy lipid metabolism.
How does omega-3 influence inflammation?
EPA produces eicosanoids that help regulate inflammatory responses.
DHA forms resolvins and protectins involved in inflammation resolution.
ALA supports the omega-3 pathway by providing precursor molecules.
What is the daily recommended intake of omega-3?
General recommendations suggest 2 g of ALA per day for adults.
This amount supports normal lipid metabolism and provides precursor material for EPA and DHA synthesis.
Exact needs vary by diet, age, and health status.
What is the difference between plant omega-3 and marine omega-3?
Plant omega-3 provides ALA, an essential fatty acid.
Marine omega-3 provides EPA and DHA in their long-chain forms.
The body can convert ALA into EPA and DHA at limited rates.
Both types contribute to overall omega-3 status.
Why is ALA essential?
ALA is essential because the human body cannot produce it.
It must be obtained from food.
ALA supports cell membrane function and begins the omega-3 metabolic pathway.
Is fish oil the only source of EPA and DHA?
Fish oil is a common source of EPA and DHA.
Algae oil also provides EPA and DHA.
Plant oils do not contain EPA or DHA but supply ALA which converts into EPA. A smaller portion of EPA converts into DHA.
What are the benefits of plant-based omega-3 sources?
Plant sources provide ALA, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.
ALA contributes to normal cholesterol maintenance.
Plant omega-3 sources are suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets.
They offer a sustainable alternative to marine oils.
What is Sacha Inchi oil?
Sacha Inchi oil is a plant oil extracted from the seeds of Plukenetia volubilis.
It contains approximately 48% omega-3 ALA.
It also provides omega-6 and omega-9 in balanced proportions.
Sacha Inchi oil is rich in vitamin E (tocopherols).
How much ALA is in one spoon of Sacha Inchi oil?
A 5 ml spoon of Sacha Inchi oil provides approximately 2.2 g of ALA.
This meets the daily intake recommended by EFSA.
Can EPA and DHA convert back into ALA?
No.
The conversion pathway is unidirectional: ALA → EPA → DHA.
EPA and DHA cannot reverse-convert to ALA.
What makes Sacha Inchi a sustainable omega-3 source?
Sacha Inchi is a renewable crop grown on perennial vines.
Its cultivation supports agroforestry and biodiversity.
It does not rely on marine ecosystems or fishing pressure.
It provides a plant-based alternative to marine oils.