Summary
This narrative review synthesises evidence on omega-3 long-chain PUFAs (EPA and DHA), acknowledging robust epidemiological associations with reduced cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and metabolic disease risk, yet explaining the heterogeneous and sometimes contradictory outcomes in standardised supplement and prescription trials. The authors argue that biochemical factors—including raw material source, molecular form, stereochemistry, and co-occurring bioactive compounds—are underestimated determinants of bioavailability, digestion kinetics, and cellular metabolite delivery, and may account for observed clinical inconsistencies.
Regional applicability
The paper addresses a global clinical and nutritional science concern relevant to United Kingdom healthcare and dietary guidance, where omega-3 supplementation is widely recommended. The emphasis on bioavailability and formulation quality is directly applicable to UK clinical practice and consumer supplement regulation, though the authors' Russian institutional affiliation does not suggest UK-specific data.
Key measures
Molecular stability, digestion kinetics, bioavailability, metabolite delivery to target cells, chemical and stereochemical form of lipid molecules, presence of antioxidants and structural lipids
Outcomes reported
The paper examines how source material, chemical form, stereochemistry, and accompanying compounds determine omega-3 PUFA bioavailability, digestion kinetics, and metabolite delivery to target tissues. It addresses the discrepancy between epidemiological evidence for omega-3 benefits and heterogeneous clinical trial outcomes.
Topic tags
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