New findings from a cohort of 14,422 adults.
As research continues to weigh on the importance of omega-3 fatty acids eicopsapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), there is concern that vegetarians and vegans could be deficient in these nutrients primarily derived from fish. But research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition this month suggests otherwise.
Researchers analyzed dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) intake in 14,422 adults (age 39 to 78 years) from the government-funded European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition-Norfolk (EPIC Norfolk) cohort. Blood levels of PUFAs were also measured in a substudy of 4902 individuals.
Not surprisingly, the researchers determined that EPA and DHA intake was 57–80% lower in non-fish eaters than fish eaters. But “status” of PUFAs in the bodies was considerably smaller, suggesting that non-fish eaters could convert alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) more efficiently than fish eaters.
“Substantial differences in intakes and in sources of n–3 PUFAs existed between the dietary-habit groups, but the differences in status were smaller than expected, possiblybecause the precursor-product ratio was greater in non-fish eaters than in fish eaters, potentially indicating increased estimatedconversion of ALA,” wrote the study’s author. “If intervention studies were to confirm thesefindings, it could have implications for fish requirements.”
An abstract of the study on omega-3 conversion in vegetarians and non-vegetarians can be read here.
The Nutritional Outlook Podcast Episode 34: Demystifying Prebiotics and Postbiotics
September 30th 2024In this episode of the Nutritional Outlook Podcast we are looking back on a webcast Nutritional Outlook hosted in May, called “Demystifying the Prebiotic and Postbiotic Markets.” During that event, Sandra Saville, director of education and communication for the International Probiotics Association and Dr. Jessica A. Younes, scientific director of the International Probiotics Association debunked myths about prebiotic and postbiotics, and defined the respective categories to help manufacturers better understand how to responsibly formulate and market prebiotic and postbiotic products.
Balchem’s Newest Launch Optifolin⁺® Brings Innovation to the Folate Market
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Women in Nutraceuticals to hold first annual WIN Awards at SupplySide West 2024
October 16th 2024According to the organization’s press release, the awards program is designed to “celebrate the remarkable contributions and achievements of those who champion gender equity, drive research innovations, excel in mentorship within the nutraceutical sector, and significantly contribute to WIN’s programs.”
Kyowa Hakko USA to share new research on its Cognizin citicoline ingredient at SupplySide West 2024
Published: October 15th 2024 | Updated: October 15th 2024According to the company, the new research demonstrates the ingredient’s neuroprotective qualities and potential to enhance cognitive function, and support healthy brain aging.