FAQ – ArcticMed

Questions & Answers

Here you will find answers to the most common questions we receive. If there is something you cannot find the answer to here, do not hesitate to contact us. We are more than happy to help you!

RIGHT AMOUNT OF EPA, DPA AND DHA:

EPA, DPA and DHA are essential fatty acids with various health benefits, such as heart, brain and immune system health. A natural omega-3 oil should have a maximum of 34–40% omega-3 for the best quality, as higher concentrations lack DPA and oxidize more quickly.

SUSTAINABLE:

A sustainable producer uses fish oil from certified sustainable fisheries, minimizes production steps to reduce CO2 emissions, and prefers glass bottles over plastic to protect the environment.

GLASS BOTTLE:

Plastic bottles can contain phthalates and other chemicals that can leach into the oil and affect its purity and quality. In other words, high-quality omega-3s should be bottled in glass.

FRESHNESS:

Omega-3 oil should be fresh, but many products go rancid due to slight oxidation. A good fish oil contains added natural antioxidants, with olive oil antioxidants being particularly effective.

PURITY:

Purity is crucial for omega-3 oil, as it can contain heavy metals and phthalates. A good oil undergoes thorough purification to remove harmful substances and ensure a clean and safe product.

OBTAINED FROM WILD-CATCHED FISH:

Wild-caught fish like sardines and anchovies are less contaminated than predatory fish, but their oil should still be purified to remove heavy metals and toxins.

Why do we need fatty acids?

All fatty acids have enormous potential for the body, as they are converted into other molecules that play vital roles in regulating, mediating, inducing and counteracting countless bodily functions.

Can't we get enough Omega-3 from the food we eat?

Generally speaking, yes, if you eat oily fish 2-3 times a week, at least 300 to 500g each time. Ideally, your diet should provide at least 2650mg of long-chain Omega-3 (DHA + EPA) per day, either from food sources or supplements.

How are fatty acids transported in the body?

Dietary fat is transported intact via the mouth and stomach to the small intestine where it mixes with bile acid and enzymes and is converted into fatty acids. The free fatty acids are taken up by intestinal cells and liver cells which use the fatty acids as building blocks in the production of their own triglycerides and phospholipids. The fatty acids are then transported in the blood to the body's cells by means of "boats" (such as LDL and HDL).

What are Omega-6, Omega-3 and Omega-9?

Omega-3 and Omega-6 are essential fatty acids that the body cannot produce itself and therefore must be supplied through the diet. They are important for the normal functioning of the body's tissues.

Short-chain Omega-3s from plant oils, such as rapeseed and flaxseed oil, can be converted to long-chain Omega-3s, but this process is inefficient. Omega-9 is a non-essential fatty acid that the body can produce itself, especially in cases of Omega-3 and Omega-6 deficiency.

What type of fish do you use in ArcticMed Omega-3 Premium?

We only use FOS (Friend of the Sea) certified wild-caught fish (mainly sardines and anchovies)

What are Omega-3 essential fatty acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids are important components of cellular and membrane lipids (the main structural components of living cells) that are essential for life and health. Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid (EFA) that cannot be synthesized by the human body and therefore must be consumed in the food we eat.